Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have taken over the streets as a reliable and affordable means of transportation in cities and suburbs alike. But with this new technology, passengers can be left in the dark when it comes to collision policies should their driver get into an accident. Here is what to do if you’re in an Uber accident:
Whether it’s a fender bender or a more serious crash, passengers should always collect the information of everyone involved in the accident including drivers, witnesses and other pass
engers. If possible, take pictures to use as reference for insurance companies when filing a claim. If you are injured in an accident, the next step would be to contact the rideshare app’s insurance provider. Uber and Lyft have hefty policies to protect themselves and their drivers, but should they deny a claim for any reason, a passenger can sue the at-fault driver directly. Drivers are not an employee of the rideshare company, and they are responsible for obtaining their own insurance as well. A passenger involved in an accident while in a taxi can take similar steps by filing a claim with the taxi company’s insurance provider to cover any costs.
For drivers, the rules of coverage are more complicated. Drivers can be covered by a rideshare’s insurance if they are driving to pick up a passenger, or are en route to a destination with a passenger. However, when a passenger has been dropped off and the driver is waiting for another rider, the driver is not insured. If an accident occurs during this time, the driver must handle any damages independently.
While there are always risks associated with driving, have peace of mind knowing you are insured next time you order a ride. To learn more about auto insurance, please click here!