Uber and Lyft are among the most popular rideshare companies in the United States. Uber is a more general-purpose app that allows you to hail a car for just about any purpose, while Lyft primarily functions as a ride-sharing service. If a passenger is harmed in a traffic accident while using a rideshare company, they may qualify for compensation.
Reasons That Can Make You Sue the Rideshare Company After an Accident
Depending on the specific circumstances of the accident, the injured passenger may file for compensation after a crash. The driver and company may not be insured for any claims that arise from the passengers’ injuries. A lawyer can help you take proper legal action to secure fair compensation.
Negligence
If you have been injured and you believe that the rideshare company was negligent, a personal injury Atlanta Rideshare Accident Lawyer may be able to help recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They can also encourage family members to join in the suit if it is still possible.
Failure to Issue a Letter of Claim
You must consider obtaining a letter of claim from the driver so that you have proof of your injuries owed by the driver and company. This will protect your rights should coverage be denied by any insurance provider that comes along later.
False Advertising
If the driver or rideshare company advertises that they are insured, you may want to learn what their insurance policy covers. Uber and Lyft, for example, claim to be covered for liability and property damage. If a lawsuit is pursued and the ride damages your property, then the insurer may not have to pay.
False Tax Identification Certificate
Suppose you believe the driver or company has obtained tax identification numbers illegally or is attempting to take advantage of the lack of verification of these numbers. In that case, you may want to make a complaint. You can file a complaint with the IRS. The information will be forwarded to the state (or county) where you live if they wish to investigate.
Refusal to Assist in Accident Investigation
If you have been injured and have attempted to seek compensation from either side, then your side must cooperate with both the defendant and the police department so that an investigation can take place.
The Driver Was Uninsured/Underinsured
If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to recover damages through their coverage and the company’s insurance. This can be done by showing that the driver did not give “actual proof of insurance” before picking you up.
Failure to Maintain Adequate Insurance
Many states require rideshare companies to carry liability insurance. Suppose the driver’s policy does not meet the minimum requirements. In that case, you may be able to pursue a small claim against the company for damages even if your injuries remain unrecovered unless you can get the driver’s insurance carrier to cover you.
Insurance Is Canceled After the Accident
Uber and Lyft have a history of canceling their policies once they feel they are no longer needed. This is usually done because there has been an accident that was the driver’s fault, but the company failed to pay for medical claims or property damage caused by the crash.
Suppose you were involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, and you sustained severe injuries. In that case, you should contact a personal injury attorney immediately so that they can help you obtain compensation from all responsible parties through insurance policies and by filing suit if necessary.
Driver Failed to Provide Correct Information
If the driver was not providing accurate information about themselves, your claim might have more chance of success if you can prove that they did not follow the required procedures for coverage.
Seeking Justice
If you have been injured in an accident, you want to ensure that the responsible party is held accountable for their actions. A legal expert can help you build a strong case against the defendant and increase your chances of a positive outcome.
With a BA in communications and paralegal experience, Irma C. Dengler decided to make the best of her writing skills. She decided to turn complicated legal matters into something more
palatable for the masses. Therefore, Irma became a law communicator who writes about everyday problems so everyone can understand them and take the appropriate action. She specialized in personal injury cases, as they are more common than anyone thinks, but her areas of expertise also include civil law, criminal law, insurance-related issues, and more.
