Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft are a popular and convenient way to get around, but accidents occur just as they do with any other vehicle. What happens after and who is liable will depend on the circumstances of the collision. However, if you are injured in a rideshare accident, you are likely entitled to compensation.
To find out if you have a claim, contact Lightfoot Law, PLLC. Call (202) 506-3591 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Why Choose Our Washington, D.C. Rideshare Accident Lawyer?
- One of our many goals is to provide exceptional service to our clients and prompt communication.
- We listen to our clients to determine the best approach to meet their goals and prepare each case with the utmost care.
- We are committed to keeping our clients well informed throughout the entire legal process.
Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Attorney in Washington, D.C.
If you are injured as a passenger or another driver in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation if you were not at fault. Hiring an attorney with experience handling rideshare accident cases will be invaluable. They have a thorough understanding of the applicable laws and the threshold that must be met to step outside of the District of Columbia’s no-fault system and pursue further compensation on your behalf.
Rideshare accidents can also be complicated, particularly when it comes to liability. Companies like Uber and Lyft consider their drivers independent contractors rather than employees and often refuse to pay valid injury claims based on their stance that they are not responsible for their drivers’ actions. A qualified attorney will know how to handle these challenges and maximize your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Who is Liable in a Washington, D.C. Rideshare Accident?
A rideshare accident is different from a typical car accident in that liability is not always clear. Typically, the at-fault driver is responsible for any damages. However, an employer may be liable depending on if a driver is considered to have been working when they caused the collision.
Both Uber and Lyft require drivers to have their own personal insurance policy and will provide coverage themselves only under certain conditions
Uber Insurance Coverage
Uber provides coverage for their drivers, as follows:
- Uber App is Off: Only the driver’s private insurance will apply to the accident.
- App is On, and the Driver is “Available”: Uber’s contingent liability coverage applies, but only to the losses sustained by others who were injured or had their property damaged. This includes up to $100,000 for injuries ($50,000 per person) and $25,000 for property damage. The Uber or Lyft driver must access their personal policy for their own injuries or vehicle damage.
- Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Until Passenger is Dropped Off: Uber’s commercial insurance coverage applies, which includes up to $1 million per accident for property damage and bodily injury and another $1 million if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Lyft Insurance Coverage
Lyft has very similar insurance policies to Uber, and they apply in the following scenarios:
- Lyft App is Off: Only the driver’s private insurance will apply to the accident.
- Lyft Driver is Waiting for a Match: Only the driver’s private insurance will apply to the accident unless their insurance company refuses to cover it. In that situation, Lyft’s policy will apply, which provides $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Driver Has Accepted a Trip or Until Passenger is Dropped Off: Lyft’s $1 million policy will apply to the collision.
Get Help From a Skilled Washington, D.C. Rideshare Accident Lawyer
If you have been harmed in a rideshare accident, we will help you hold the responsible parties accountable. Call Lightfoot Law, PLLC, at (202) 506-3591, or contact us online, to arrange a free consultation about your case.