Ridesharing is the practice of using technology to hire a one-time, shared car rides on short notice. The most popular ridesharing services are Uber and Lyft, two companies competing for the same customers. Few people expect to get into a car accident when taking an Uber or Lyft to their next destination. However, accidents do happen. That is why these two companies, in particular, have opted for a $1 million insurance policy limit they can use to cover any injuries to passengers during the drive. Despite this, liability is still not that simple.
Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who was at fault for the accident must pay for it. If you were involved in an accident with another driver, the at-fault driver’s insurance company would pay. Failing the at-fault driver having insurance, Uber and Lyft’s policy might cover you.
The only problem is that insurance companies never really want to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and damaged property. If they can avoid it, they will. For example, Uber ensures driver behavior is not their responsibility by listing their drivers as “independent contractors” rather than “employees.”
However, in the past, they have been held liable by courts for negligent hiring practices. In 2014, an Uber driver killed a 6-year-old girl in San Francisco. Uber attempted to deny responsibility by arguing the driver wasn’t logged into the company’s app at the time of the accident. If Uber or Lyft tries to claim they are not responsible for your driver’s behavior if your driver is at fault at attempts to deny you coverage, you need the assistance of an experienced Longview car accident attorney to help.
Erskine & McMahone LLP offers skilled personal injury attorneys who will do everything in their power to secure a favorable outcome for you. We understand how frustrating it can be to face piles of medical bills resulting from the negligence of another party. However, we have been serving the rights of East Texans for more than 100 years. Our attorneys are passionate about seeking justice for you and your family. Let us see what we can do for you and your case.
Contact us at (903) 500-2490 or fill out our online form to schedule a case consultation today.