What Can I Do If I Was Injured in a Rideshare Accident?

 Posted on July 04, 2024 in Car Accidents

In today’s gig economy, ridesharing has become a great way to get around. Companies like Uber and Lyft hire millions of drivers in over 70 countries to transport passengers. Last year, Uber alone was responsible for more than 9.4 billion trips worldwide.

As rides increase, however, so do accidents. Ridesharing has been blamed for a three percent increase in vehicle collisions, which in turn has led to more fatalities and injuries. But what can passengers do when they are injured in a rideshare accident? Can they bring a claim against the driver? Can they sue the rideshare company?

This article will discuss what you can do if you are injured in a rideshare accident. However, it is always best to seek a California rideshare attorney’s guidance concerning your legal options.

Are Rideshare Companies Liable for Collisions?

The first question that must be answered is if a rideshare company like Uber or Lyft is responsible for the actions of its drivers. Normally, a company is liable for injuries its employees cause while on the job, with some exceptions. However, rideshare drivers do not have the status of employees. They are hired as independent contractors, a status which provides a degree of separation between the driver and the company. Because of this, the rideshare company is usually liable for accidents caused by its drivers, but not always.

What If the Company Was Negligent?

You may be able to bring a claim against the company directly if you can prove that it was negligent. For example:

• If Uber hired a driver with a poor driving history and that driver caused an accident, the company may be liable.

• If Lyft failed to provide a driver with proper training and that driver caused a collision as a result, Lyft may be responsible.

Who Can I Bring a Claim Against?

If your rideshare driver caused an accident and the company was not negligent, then you can start by filing a claim with the driver’s insurance company for damages. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, then you can file a claim with the rideshare company. Rideshare companies are referred to in California law as transportation network companies (TNCs). TNCs are required to carry insurance policies of up to $1 million per driver in case the driver’s insurance cannot cover the damages.

Contact a Glendale, CA Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Filing a personal injury claim for damages is best done through a Los Angeles, CA rideshare accident attorney. Research has shown that about 85 percent of insurance payouts go to claimants with legal representation. Furthermore, people who file an insurance claim through an attorney receive payouts that are 3.5 times higher on average than claimants who file on their own.

At Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C., we want to secure the highest possible compensation for you. That is why our excellent rideshare attorneys are available for free consultations and are ready to aggressively fight for the best outcome possible. Call 818-242-8201 to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer today.