Unlike taxi companies, rideshares like Uber and Lyft do not require their drivers to obtain a commercial license. That means that while a rideshare accident claim doesn't fall under a regular car accident claim, they also don't fall under a commercial accident claim. This gray area makes a rideshare accident more challenging than the average case.
When it comes to rideshare accidents, finding the liable party is similar to any other car accident. To determine who is at fault, you will have to establish negligence on the part of the rideshare driver.
A knowledgeable attorney will determine fault by building a solid case that proves that the rideshare driver:
1. The person owed a duty of reasonable care.
2. The person breached that duty.
3. You were injured and suffered damages due to the other person's breach.
When a person becomes a rideshare passenger, the driver, like any other motorist on the road, has an obligation to obey traffic laws. A breach of duty happens when a driver fails to drive carefully or disregards traffic laws, for example, driving above the speed limit or running a red light.
While companies like Uber and Lyft have million-dollar liability insurance, the policies are limited to the circumstances of the accident.
When a passenger gets hurt due to a contracted driver's negligence, the rideshare company will likely be liable for your claim. The company's responsibility also applies when someone sustains injuries after a single car accident where an on-duty rideshare driver is at fault.
However, just because a rideshare company may be legally liable for damages doesn't mean the company won't fight your claim. After all, they have attorneys and unlimited resources at their disposal. That's why having an experienced rideshare accident attorney in your arsenal is an essential asset.
