Phoenix Rideshare Accidents: Know Your Rights & Insurance Coverage

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft have transformed our transportation methods, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis and personal cars. Although these services offer convenience and accessibility, they are still subject to accidents. In case you are involved in a rideshare accident in Phoenix, it is essential to understand your rights. There can be a lot of complications in these accidents, with multiple parties involved. Be sure to gain complete knowledge of the available insurance coverage to receive fair compensation for your damages.

Understanding Liability in a Rideshare Accident

Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complicated, given that several parties may be involved. The rideshare driver, another driver, or the rideshare company may be the responsible party. Here are the following probable situations that may pose liability:

If the Rideshare Driver Is at Fault

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide liability insurance coverage up to $1 million if their driver is at fault while actively engaged in a ride.

This coverage applies if:

The driver was either transporting a passenger or on the way to pick one up.
The driver was signed into the app and ready for rides.
When the driver was offline and not actively engaged in a ride, their auto insurance policy would cover the damages.

If Another Driver Is Responsible

If you are a rideshare passenger and another driver causes the accident, the claims process follows standard personal injury procedures. You will be compensated for your damages, including medical costs and property damage, by the insurance of the driver responsible for the accident. In cases where the driver responsible for the accident lacks sufficient insurance or has no insurance at all, Uber and Lyft offer extra coverage to safeguard passengers.

Can You Sue the Rideshare Company?

Although rideshare companies designate their drivers as independent contractors instead of employees, they can still be held accountable in certain situations when the company fails to provide adequate driver training, ignores safety concerns, or engages in negligent hiring practices, it may be responsible for damages.

Also, in the case when the rideshare driver does not completely cover the damages. Consult a Rideshare accident attorney in Phoenix to assess whether legal action against the company is needed.

Insurance Coverage in a Rideshare Accident

The extent of insurance coverage differs based on the driver’s status when the accident occurred. Knowing how Uber and Lyft operate and their policies can aid in clarifying coverage eligibility:

1) If the driver is not online

When the driver is not logged into the rideshare app, any accident falls under their auto insurance coverage. In this situation, Uber and Lyft do not offer any coverage.

2) When the driver is online but has no passenger

When the driver is logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride yet, Uber and Lyft provide limited coverage:

An individual gets $50,000 for bodily injury
$100,000 per accident for bodily injury,
$25,000 for damages to property

3) When the driver is on the way to pick up a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle

After accepting a ride request, while en route to pick up a passenger, or while carrying an active passenger, drivers are covered by Uber and Lyft for liability of up to $1 million.

Your Next Steps After Facing a Rideshare Accident

Involving in an accident with Uber or Lyft can be daunting, but following the correct procedures can help protect your legal rights and improve the likelihood of obtaining better compensation.

1) Consult a doctor: Your health must come first. Irrespective of how minor injuries may seem, get medical help at the moment. This will ensure that the injuries are accurately recorded.

2) Document the scene: If feasible, collect evidence by capturing photos and videos of the accident scene, which should include:

Damage to vehicles
Conditions of the road
Visible injuries
License plates and insurance details of all involved drivers

Additionally, collect the witness’s contact details who can provide statements regarding the accident.

3) Notify authorities about the accident: Talk to the local law enforcement and make sure an official police report is created. This report can serve as significant evidence when submitting an insurance claim.

4) Inform the rideshare company: Uber and Lyft have built-in accident reporting procedures in their apps. Refer to those and report the accident as soon as it happens. This will help expedite the claims process.

5) Seek the advice of a rideshare accident lawyer: The insurance claims process can be challenging to navigate, particularly when it involves major companies such as Uber and Lyft. A qualified rideshare accident attorney can assist in evaluating your case. He/she can negotiate with insurance providers and guarantee you receive deserved compensation.

What Are Your Legal Options for Compensation?

In case you sustained injuries from a rideshare accident, you are qualified for different types of compensation, such as:

Medical expenses: Includes hospitalization costs, rehabilitation, and future medical treatment.
Lost wages: Remuneration for work missed as a result of injuries.
Pain and suffering: Due to emotional distress, trauma, and diminished quality of life.
Property damage: Includes the repair or replacement of personal items that were damaged.

Filing a Lawsuit

If insurance negotiations do not yield sufficient compensation, you may be required to pursue legal action. Your lawyer can assist in deciding whether to file a lawsuit against the rideshare driver, their insurance provider, Uber or Lyft, or another liable individual.

Understanding the Rideshare Accident Legislation in Arizona

Arizona operates under an at-fault system, which means that the individual who caused the accident is accountable for the damages. Furthermore, Arizona applies comparative negligence law. This law states that if you are found partially responsible for the accident, your compensation may be affected.

The statute of limitations for submitting a personal injury claim in Arizona is two years from the accident date. By taking action without delay, you ensure that your right to seek compensation remains intact.

Final Thoughts

Rideshare accidents can be overwhelming when it comes to advocating for your rights. However, being aware of your rights and the regulations regarding insurance coverage can assist you in taking the essential actions needed to achieve equitable compensation. Get legal assistance to receive your rightful entitlements and the maximum compensation possible. Hiring a rideshare accident attorney in Phoenix can simplify the whole process, from managing insurance policies for Uber or Lyft to identifying at-fault drivers and handling complex claims.