Harris, AR Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer
Uber and Lyft have become popular alternatives to other forms of public transportation, including taxis and buses. People in Harris rely on rideshares for trips to work, the store, or an evening on the town.
While the majority of Lyft and Uber drivers are conscientious when they are behind the week, accidents still occur. When an accident involves a rideshare, it presents additional complications not found in other car accident cases.
With over twenty years of experience handling traditional car accident cases, our Harris, AR Uber and Lyft accident lawyers bring decades of knowledge and resources to a developing body of law. To discuss your legal case, call (479) 316-0438.
Uber and Lyft Accidents in Harris, AR
If you were involved in an accident that was caused by an Uber or Lyft driver, it is important to understand your rights and options. Rideshare accident victims are not limited to passengers in the Uber or Lyft. Drivers and passengers in other vehicles could also be victims. Other crash victims include pedestrians and bicyclists. While your status as an accident victim is important, other factors will influence how your case proceeds.
Under the law, Lyft and Uber drivers are mandated to carry their own personal auto insurance. In a typical accident, because an Uber or Lyft driver is considered an independent contractor, your claim would be against the negligent driver and their insurance provider. To receive compensation from an Uber or Lyft driver after an accident, our Harris personal injury attorneys will have to prove negligence.
Compensation After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Harris, Arkansas
Normally, if you file a lawsuit against another driver and your damages exceed the driver’s policy limits, you are out of luck. Even though you could hold the negligent driver liable, your ability to collect a judgment is impaired if the driver lacks sufficient funds or assets.
Fortunately, both Uber and Lyft carry supplementary insurance to cover this issue. When this supplementary insurance goes into effect, and for how much, depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Uber and Lyft will often dispute the driver’s status to avoid liability.
The Uber or Lyft Driver is Using Their Vehicle for Personal Use
Lyft and Uber drivers use their own cars to participate as a rideshare driver. Therefore, a rideshare driver is not always on duty or accepting passengers. A driver is only on duty when they are logged into the app. If an accident occurs when a Lyft or Uber driver is engaged in personal activities, a victim’s only recourse is to file a claim against the driver’s auto insurance policy.
The Uber or Lyft Driver is On Duty, But Has Not Accepted a Ride or Is Not Transporting a Passenger
When a driver logs onto their respective apps, they are considered on duty. At this time, they are available to accept a passenger. If an accident occurs while a rideshare driver is on duty, it is still primarily covered by their personal auto insurance. However, both companies offer contingent liability coverage. More specifically, Uber and Lyft provide $50,000 of coverage for bodily injury per passenger. This coverage is limited to $100,000 per accident. Additionally, there is $25,000 coverage for property damage. It is important to remember that this coverage must be requested and is only available if the driver’s insurance does not cover the damages.
The Uber or Lyft Driver Has Accepted a Passenger or is Transporting One
When a driver has accepted a passenger request or is carrying a passenger to their destination, Uber and Lyft provide an additional $1 million of insurance coverage. This insurance coverage also goes into effect if an uninsured or underinsured driver causes the accident.
What to do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Harris, AR
The steps you take after a car accident could impact your ability to successfully hold another party liable for your injuries and damages. When an Uber or Lyft is also involved in an accident, there are some other things you should consider.
Call the Police
A police officer will secure the accident scene, ensure medical personnel arrives, and conduct the preliminary investigation into the crash. They will also prepare an accident report which will provide valuable information for our Harris Uber and Lyft accident lawyers.
Seek Medical Attention
After any accident, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Your health and wellbeing are of utmost importance. Additionally, you want to ensure you have timely medical documentation of your injuries. Without evidence, it might be hard to prove your injuries are related to the accident. You should seek medical attention even if you feel fine – not all injures are apparent immediately following a traumatic accident.
Collect Evidence
Some of the best evidence regarding an accident is available in the moments following the crash. You should take photographs of the scene. Furthermore, gather the names and contact information of those involved in the accident and anyone who witnessed the crash. Be sure to save your rideshare trip information on the app as well as your driver’s information.
Report the Crash to Uber or Lyft
You should report the accident to whatever company employed your driver as soon as possible. Typically, you could report a crash through a feature on the app or the respective company’s website. When reporting the accident, just stick to the facts and, under no circumstances, admit fault.
Call Our Harris, AR Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers to Discuss Your Legal Options
If you are harmed in a Lyft or Uber accident, you have rights. Our Harris, AR Uber and Lyft accident lawyers are dedicated to helping our clients obtain their just compensation. Call (479) 316-0438 to discuss the specifics of your case.