As a popular choice for transportation in America, there is an increasing number of accidents involving ride sharing vehicles. This is because more ride sharing vehicles are on the roadways.
If you have been hit by a ride sharing vehicle, you might be able to recover compensation for your damages by pursuing a personal injury claim against the driver. If the driver is at fault, you would pursue the claim against him or her just as you would any other driver at-fault for a crash. You need to maintain the proper documentation to support your claim.
How Does Ride Sharing Work?
Rideshare services compete with taxis and other car services for personal transportation. Using a phone app, The service schedules rides, handles billing, and accepts payments. The ride share company does not own, operate, or control its vehicles though.
All drivers are independent contractors who use their own cars for hire. When the driver is available for a fare or transporting a client, he or she must have their app open and running. The process completely depends on the app.
Who is Liable for Damages Caused?
Just like with any other auto accident, fault must be proven to establish liability. If you can show that the other driver was negligent, then you can have a successful personal injury claim.
As an example, if you can show that the driver was speeding, driving under the influence, or ran a stop sign, odds are you will be able to have success with your personal injury claim.
In some states, comparative negligence is used. If you were less negligent or less at fault than the driver, you can have a successful claim.
Determining Whose Insurance is Liable for Your Damages
If a ride sharing vehicle hit you, then you have suffered damages. You might be wondering who is going to foot the bill for those costs. When a driver contracts with a ride sharing service, he or she is required to maintain their own auto insurance coverage. That coverage must meet or exceed the state requirements.
Usually, personal auto insurance coverage will not pay if the accident occurred while the vehicle is being used for hire. In those situations, the company's coverage will kick in.
Consult with A Personal Injury Attorney
In some states, there is a two-year statute of limitations for pursuing compensation for damages after an accident. If you wait too long, you cannot be compensated.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page today to a get free case review from a personal injury attorney. You have nothing to lose as most accident injury lawyers work on a contingency basis.
Additional Resources
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Uber, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
