Brush up on how to handle auto accidents dealing with ridesharing services, whether you are a passenger or motorist.
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are undoubtedly convenient if you are looking to get around Connecticut without enduring the stress of traffic or hunting for a good parking spot. That said, there is still a chance you can find yourself involved in an auto accident as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, and the same is true if you are driving in your own car and are hit by a driver for Lyft or Uber. Here is some insight on what steps to take in either instance.
As a passenger
When passengers are involved in an accident while riding in a ridesharing vehicle, they should treat the driver as if she or he were the other driver in a regular auto accident. This means gathering the ridesharing driver’s contact information, insurance info and noting which ridesharing company she or he was working for when the accident took place. It is also a good idea to take pictures of the vehicles or property involved in the accident.
Because the laws and policies surrounding ridesharing services and accidents are in constant flux, your best bet is to work with a lawyer who is familiar with these types of cases. That way, you have a better chance of receiving the compensation you deserve and can focus on making a full recovery.
As a driver
Let us say you are driving when you are hit by an Uber or a Lyft driver. One of the first things to know in this instance is that while ridesharing companies offer coverage for their drivers, that coverage is only active once drivers accept ride requests and have passengers in the car. While drivers are waiting to accept a request, their ownpersonal auto insurance is what covers them in the event of an accident.
Commonly, Lyft and Uber offer $1 million worth of coverage for damages and medical expenses for their drivers and any motorists involved in accidents with their drivers. You will want to go through the standard steps of gathering the drivers’ insurance information, taking pictures of the accident, calling the police and gathering statements and contact information from witnesses. Whether you contact the driver’s personal auto insurance provider or Lyft/Uber depends on whether there was a passenger in the vehicle, so it is best to get as much information as possible. Again, turn to an attorney familiar with ridesharing auto accidents for the best results.
There is a lot to know and understand about incidents involving Lyft and Uber in Connecticut, whether you are a passenger or driver. Make sure you work with a legal expert to protect your rights and receive fair compensation.
