Ride sharing can be an excellent option for many Kentucky residents who are without easy access to a vehicle or prefer the convenience of someone else driving after a night out.
As ride shares become more prevalent, the chances of being in an accident with an Uber or Lyft are also increasing. If this has happened to you, you may wonder who is responsible for damages in a Kentucky Uber or Lyft accident.
This article explains who is financially responsible for car accidents involving ride share apps like Uber or Lyft, what compensation you may be entitled to, and what steps to take if you’ve been in an accident.
Reach out today for a free consultation at 1-844-459-9467. McCoy & Sparks’ experienced car accident attorneys are standing by to help you decide what to do if you’re in an accident while taking an Uber or Lyft.
What To Do If You’re In An Accident While Taking An Uber Or Lyft
If you are involved in an accident while riding an Uber, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and well-being. Ensure that everyone involved in the accident receives medical attention if necessary. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further harm.
Once you have handled your medical needs, gather as much information about the accident as possible.
- Collect contact information for the driver, other drivers involved, and witnesses.
- If you can, take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant street signs or landmarks.
- Next, the incident should be reported to Uber or Lyft through the app so the company can begin its post-accident process. The report also creates a record to preserve your legal rights if the company tries to avoid responsibility.
- Once you’ve reported the accident, speak to a knowledgeable rideshare accident attorney to discuss your next steps.
If you suffer an injury or property damage caused by a ride sharing accident, contact McCoy & Sparks at 1-844-459-9467 so we can help you file a claim for your losses.
Recovering Damages After Uber or Lyft Car Accidents
Filing a personal injury claim after an accident becomes more complex when several insurance companies are involved. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney to help you gather evidence and present a strong case is best.
There is no designated ride share accident compensation amount. It can vary significantly based on the specifics of your accident and how well your case is presented.
Your lawyer will work to maximize your compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, loss of future earnings, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Who Is Responsible for Paying Damages?
Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers while actively transporting passengers or en route to pick up a passenger. This coverage typically includes liability coverage for bodily injury, property damage, and for the driver’s injuries.
The specific coverage amounts and conditions may vary depending on whether the driver was logged into the app, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger at the time of the accident.
Here are a few potential sources of compensation:
- Third-party liability claims: If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, injured parties may be able to pursue a claim against that driver’s insurance company for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: In cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured or lacks sufficient insurance company coverage to compensate the injured parties.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Some states require drivers to carry personal injury protection coverage, which provides compensation for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
- Workers’ compensation: If the accident occurred while the driver was actively providing transportation services for Uber or Lyft, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages resulting from their injuries.
- Negligent hiring or supervision claims: In cases where the accident was caused by the careless actions of the Uber or Lyft driver, injured parties may pursue claims against the ride share company for negligent hiring, training, or supervision of their drivers.
If you’ve been in an Uber or Lyft car accident in Kentucky, seek legal advice to determine which insurance policy applies to your situation.
Uber’s Insurance Coverage in Kentucky
Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors rather than employees, which typically means the company’s insurance does not cover them.
Due to past criticism regarding their insurance coverage, both companies now provide liability insurance to reduce liability in car accident cases. However, this coverage is only applicable under specific circumstances.
Insurance coverage has specific criteria and limitations depending on what the driver was doing when the accident occurred:
- The driver’s insurance may cover the accident when the Uber driver is off-duty and not using the app.
- When the Uber driver is logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride. Uber’s contingent insurance provides coverage, albeit at reduced amounts.
- When Uber drivers accept a ride and passengers are in the vehicle, Uber’s substantial $1 million insurance policy comes into play, covering damages if the driver is at fault or uninsured.
For a free consultation with lawyers experienced in handling car accident cases, contact McCoy & Sparks Attorneys at Law at 1-844-459-9467 or fill out our online form.