The increased popularity of ride-sharing services increases the risk of Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Fresno. A motorist who is injured in an accident with a rideshare driver can file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages.
In addition to the at-fault driver, an injured person may also have a valid legal claim against the rideshare company. Consult with our experienced car accident attorneys immediately about your legal rights. The sooner we are involved in the process, the sooner we can get to work preserving evidence and taking steps to help you seek the compensation you need to recover. Call Valero Law Group today to begin discussing your options with a dedicated advocate.
Laws Regulating Rideshare Companies
The California Public Utilities Commission has implemented various laws regulating rideshare companies. For example, Cal. Pub. Util. Code § 5445.3 requires these transportation companies to verify that their drivers have a valid state license. Further, rideshare companies must obtain and review an individual’s driving record.
A driver is not eligible to work for a transportation network company if they have:
- More than three points on their license within the past three years
- Major violations, such as convictions for reckless driving, hit and run, or driving with a suspended license, within the prior three years
- A conviction for driving under the influence within the past seven years
To protect public safety, rideshare companies must also perform national criminal background checks. These regulations are meant to cut down on the risk of Uber or Lyft wrecks in Fresno and throughout the state.
Insurance Coverage for Rideshare Companies
Transportation network companies must also maintain certain minimum insurance coverage for their drivers, according to Cal. Pub. Util. Code § 5433. The amount of coverage depends on whether the driver is actively engaged in providing rideshare services.
When the driver is actively using the app but still waiting on a match, the rideshare company must provide primary insurance of at least:
- $50,000 for death and personal injury per person
- $100,000 for death and personal injury per incident
- $30,000 for property damage
- $200,000 in excess coverage per occurrence
When a driver is providing service with a rideshare passenger in the vehicle, the required minimum insurance coverage is:
- $1 million for death, personal injury, and property damage
- $1 million for uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist coverage
When a rideshare driver is involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Fresno, a rideshare company’s failure to adhere to these regulations can potentially impact a lawsuit. Reach out to our firm to learn more during a private consultation.
When Is the Rideshare Company Liable?
If a person is injured in an Uber or Lyft accident with a rideshare driver in Fresno, determining the right party to sue will depend on the specific facts and circumstances of the accident.
Whether liability falls on the rideshare company’s policy or the driver’s personal insurance depends on when the accident occurred. From when the driver opens the app until they close it or their last passenger exits the vehicle, Cal. Pub. Util. Code § 5434 states liability will fall to the transportation network company’s insurance policy. Outside of this time period, an injured person must pursue a claim against the driver’s personal insurance policy.
In some cases, insurance coverage limits may not adequately compensate someone injured in a rideshare company accident. If insurance proceeds are unsatisfactory, an injured motorist can still pursue a personal injury lawsuit for negligence against the transportation network company or the at-fault driver.
A personal injury lawsuit is a way for an injured person to recover damages to cover losses such as property damage, medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost wages. To learn more about what a specific claim could be worth, call our office today.
Call Our Legal Team Today to Discuss Fresno Rideshare Accidents
Experiencing Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Fresno can take a physical and emotional toll on your well-being. Our attorneys care about our clients and work hard to fight for their cases while they focus on recovering.
If an injury prevents you from coming to our office, we can arrange for transportation or come and visit you. We only accept payment if we win your case and are always available for calls. Reach out to Valero Law Group today to get started.
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