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Ridesharing has become a popular way to get around town, but accidents can happen. These accidents can leave us shaken and injured, unsure of what steps to take next.
While bumps and bruises might seem minor, medical bills can add up quickly. Victims must file a rideshare accident claim to get compensation for their injuries and damages. Rideshare accident lawyers can help navigate the complexities of these cases.
What kinds of injuries are rideshare accident victims vulnerable to?
Rideshare accidents, while not everyday occurrences, can leave passengers with various injuries. The most common are soft tissue injuries like whiplash, caused by the sudden force of a collision.
Broken bones, cuts, and head injuries are also possible, depending on the severity of the accident. Remember, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial after any accident, regardless of how minor it may seem.
Who covers my medical bills?
Getting hurt in a rideshare accident can be stressful. You might be worried about medical bills. Here’s a breakdown of who might be responsible:
- Rideshare Company: Ridesharing companies carry primary insurance during rides (when the app is on and a passenger is present). This insurance can cover your medical expenses initially, acting as a first line of defense.
- Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance: If you have a car insurance policy with PIP coverage, it can also contribute to your medical costs. PIP helps cover medical expenses, regardless of who caused the accident.
- At-fault Driver’s Insurance: The driver who caused the accident will ultimately be held responsible for your injuries. Their insurance will be on the hook for medical bills exceeding the rideshare company’s policy limits.
I don’t have PIP insurance. Now what?
While PIP can be helpful, it’s not mandatory. If you don’t have PIP, here are some options to consider:
- At-fault Driver’s Insurance: This remains your primary target. File a claim against the driver who caused the accident to get your medical bills covered.
- Rideshare Company’s Secondary Insurance: Some companies may carry secondary insurance that kicks in after their primary policy limits are reached. Check with the company involved in your accident to see if this applies.
- Legal Counsel: Consulting a lawyer specializing in rideshare accidents might be a good idea, depending on the severity of your injuries and your state’s laws. They can explore additional options to recover your expenses.
Is it possible to sue a ridesharing company after an accident?
Being injured in an accident caused by a rideshare driver can be frustrating. You might wonder if you can sue the rideshare company itself. The answer depends on a few key factors:
- Driver Status: Rideshare driver insurance coverage varies depending on whether the driver had a passenger or was logged into the app waiting for a ride request. Understanding the driver’s app status during the accident is crucial.
- Driver Negligence: To sue the rideshare company, you must prove the driver’s negligence directly caused the accident. This means showing they acted recklessly or irresponsibly behind the wheel.
Consulting a rideshare accident lawyer is recommended if you’re unsure about these factors or considering legal action. They can help you navigate the complexities of your case and determine the best course of action.
After a Rideshare Accident Involving Another Driver, Who Should I Sue?
Imagine you’re in a rideshare, and another driver causes the accident. Who do you sue? The other driver’s insurance will usually be your primary target. Their insurance should cover your medical bills and other damages.
However, things get trickier if the rideshare driver also acted negligently and contributed to the accident in some way. For instance, maybe they didn’t react quickly enough to avoid the other driver, or perhaps they made an improper lane change that harmed you.
In such situations, you might consider suing the other driver and the rideshare company to ensure full compensation for your injuries. Consulting a lawyer specializing in rideshare accidents can help you determine the best course of action based on the specific details of your case.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
