Published by Leonardo Calcagno
Countless individuals today rely on ridesharing services. They may use the services regularly or call for a ride only on special occasions. Either way, they love the flexibility and convenience of these rides. However, as with any vehicle, a person is at risk of being involved in an accident every time they request a ride.
What should passengers know if they are involved in an accident in a rideshare? What rights do they have, and what are they responsible for? Every person using these services needs to know the answers to these questions and more.
Rideshare Accidents and What Makes Them Unique
While rideshare accidents share many similarities with traditional car accidents, passengers need to know of some differences. Determining liability, for example, can be challenging with rideshare accidents. A passenger might not know whether to sue the rideshare company, the driver, or a third party involved in the transaction.
When making this determination, a passenger must know the driver’s status when the accident occurred. Were they on duty, and did they accept a passenger’s request? If both questions are answered yes, the rideshare company’s insurance provider will probably be the responsible party. Off-duty drivers and those between passengers often find their insurance company accountable for any bills incurred due to the accident.
The Rideshare Company’s Insurance
Most rideshare companies insure on-duty drivers. This coverage protects other drivers on the road, pedestrians, and passengers of the rideshare vehicle. Substantial insurance coverage is provided when the driver is transporting passengers. When the driver is off-duty or waiting for a passenger, less coverage is provided by the rideshare company.
Personal Insurance
Drivers who aren’t actively transporting or driving to pick up passengers won’t be covered by the rideshare company’s insurance policy. If they are in an accident, their personal insurance will cover expenses. However, drivers must learn whether their policy covers commercial activities or if they need to purchase an additional rider.
Steps to Take Following a Rideshare Accident
Any person involved in a rideshare accident must take steps to protect themselves. Seeking medical attention is the priority, even for those who don’t seem to be injured. Injuries may not appear for hours or days after the accident. This medical exam provides a baseline for doctors when the injuries appear.
Report the accident to law enforcement, even if it appears to be a minor fender bender. While waiting for an officer to arrive, gather evidence from the site, including photos of the vehicles and any damage sustained. Victims also need to take pictures of the scene. The weather, road conditions, and other factors may have played a role in the accident. Get contact information for anyone who witnessed the accident, and request a copy of the police report.
Contact the rideshare company to report the accident and get information about its insurance provider. Request information about the company’s accident policy and learn whether specific protocols must be filed. Each rideshare company operates independently, so the requirements for one company may be different from those for another.
Talk with an attorney who specializes in rideshare accidents. They can provide information about the legal process and steps victims must take. The attorney can help determine liability, negotiate with insurers, answer questions about the process, and protect clients’ rights. These accidents are complex because multiple parties and insurance companies are involved. Victims need someone on their side and the attorney will be this person.