Scranton Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are great ways to get around town. However, because they involve vehicles, accidents can and do happen. These crashes often result in serious injuries.
Involved in a rideshare accident? Get the help you need from the Scranton rideshare accident lawyers at Needle Law Firm.
Types of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents happen in five main ways:
- A customer in the rideshare vehicle was injured in a crash.
- A pedestrian was hit by a rideshare vehicle and injured.
- The rideshare driver was injured while on their way to pick up customers.
- Some other car crashed into the rideshare vehicle while it was performing its services.
- The passengers of the other vehicle that crashed with the rideshare car were injured.
Are Rideshare Drivers Safe?
You may be wondering if rideshare drivers are safe. Generally speaking, most are. Uber and Lyft strive to make conditions safe for riders via various rules, regulations, and safety measures.
However, keep in mind that Uber and Lyft drivers are not employees. They are independent contractors, and as such, they do not receive training. Plus, because of this employee status, many rideshare drivers may act unprofessional. They may not care how they behave when around customers because they are not actual employees.
Also, there have been many reports of Uber and Lyft drivers engaging in unwanted behavior and crimes. Sexual assault, such as groping, kissing, and rape, are common.
If you’re riding with an unsafe driver, your best course of action is to ask the driver to stop and let you out. You should then report them to the company and request another driver.
What Are Your Options After a Rideshare Accident?
If you have been involved in a rideshare accident, the company (Uber or Lyft) offers insurance to pay for damages. The amount of insurance available depends on the rideshare driver’s status:
- Offline/app is off. The driver’s personal insurance company and coverages apply.
- Available/waiting for a ride request. In a covered accident, third-party liability applies in the amount of $50,000 in bodily injury per person, $100,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 in property damage per accident.
- En route to pick up riders/during trips. The rideshare company offers $1 million in third-party liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury, and comprehensive and collision, up to the vehicle’s actual cash value.
If you suffer a serious injury and the insurance will not cover all your damages, you may be able to sue the rideshare company. Discuss your case with an experienced attorney to learn more.
Contact Needle Law Firm Today
Rideshare vehicles are not exempt from accidents. They may be the safer alternative to driving drunk, but there are situations in which Uber and Lyft drivers are negligent or reckless.
Rideshare accidents can be complex. You may not know what to do next. The Scranton rideshare accident lawyers at Needle Law Firm can help you with your case. Schedule a free consultation by calling (570) 344-1266 or filling out the online form.