Rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft are becoming more popular because of their convenience. It is nice to have access to a ride at the push of a button, especially after a couple of drinks. Unfortunately, rideshare vehicles are just as vulnerable to collisions as any other vehicle on the road. These accidents can result in serious injuries to drivers and passengers.
Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Little Rock often involve multiple parties and insurance policies. If you have been hurt in a wreck like this, it can be difficult to figure out where to start. An auto collision attorney at Rainwater, Holt & Sexton could help you navigate the legal process to recover the financial compensation you need for your injuries.
Drivers who want to offer their services on Uber or Lyft must go through a background check and meet the requirements, such as having a valid license and a clean driving history. Additionally, their vehicle needs to meet certain specifications. Even with these rules in place to promote safe rides, however, accidents can happen.
Rideshare drivers are still human and can get distracted behind the wheel. They may spend long hours on the road, leading to fatigue and impaired reaction time. Some may even drive in an unsafe manner despite passing the background check.
There is always the risk of some outside force causing a crash, such as bad weather or a defective vehicle part. Additionally, rideshare drivers have no control over other drivers, whose reckless behavior could contribute to an Uber or Lyft crash in Little Rock.
Rideshare crashes are often more complicated than a standard accident. Employers are usually held responsible for their employees’ negligence, but Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, not regular employees. As a result, the companies could still be liable, but in a more limited capacity.
Uber and Lyft have commercial insurance policies to compensate anyone who gets hurt due to the actions of one of their drivers. However, whether these policies apply depends on the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the Uber or Lyft collision in Little Rock.
If they were in the middle of giving a ride or en route to pick up a passenger, then a comprehensive policy may be available. If the driver had the app on and was available for a ride but had not accepted one, a more limited policy would apply. If the app was turned off, then the driver would be considered off duty, and their own insurance policy would have to cover the incident. Similarly, if the accident was due to a third party, such as another driver, that party’s insurance policy would cover it.
Determining the appropriate insurer is not easy or quick and often requires a full investigation into the accident to find out who was ultimately at fault. Of course, with so many different insurance companies involved, they will all try to find ways to limit their responsibility and shift the blame onto others.
Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Little Rock can leave everyone involved with serious injuries. Whether you are a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or other driver, a lawyer from Rainwater, Holt & Sexton could guide you through the legal process.
Our experienced team is prepared to work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us at any time to meet with one of our attorneys.
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