Accidents while using ridesharing companies like Uber or Lyft can be tricky. What will happen depends on the circumstances and who was at fault for the accident.
If the Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident, you can sue the driver. However, the driver may only have a personal automobile insurance policy and probably does not have many assets. The insurance policy may not cover accidents in which the driver is driving for a business, such as transporting passengers.
In many states, ridesharing companies are required to carry insurance for personal injury, death, and property damage that is caused by the drivers. In addition, ridesharing companies often carry policies which can provide you with some protection. If your ridesharing company does not have such a policy, and you suffered injuries in the accident, you may be able to sue the company itself.
If the driver for Uber or Lyft was not at fault for the accident, and another driver was, you may be able to pursue a claim against that other driver. That driver will hopefully have automobile insurance which will cover your damages. If not, the ridesharing company may have underinsured or uninsured motorist insurance which would cover that event.
If you have been injured in an accident as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle in Los Angeles, you may be entitled to compensation. Call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles personal injury attorney, at 310-385-0567. I can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.