Rideshares are a convenient and cost-effective way to get from point A to point B when driving is not an option. Passengers can have an Uber or Lyft in minutes with a few swipes on their phone. However, many people do not consider what would happen if their rideshare driver were in an accident. Anyone injured in Uber/Lyft/Rideshare accidents in Stockton should contact a car accident attorney from Valero Law Group to understand the available compensation options from the at-fault party.
Compensation Options for a Rideshare Accident
California is an at-fault state, which means the individual(s) responsible for the accident should pay for damages. However, in Stockton rideshare cases, the responsible party may or may not be Uber or Lyft, depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
Waiting for a Fare
If the driver is online waiting for a fare, rideshare accident coverage is limited to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident involving bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
Accepting a Fare
Once a driver accepts a fare and is traveling to pick up customers, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability insurance and coverage for uninsured or underinsured drivers. The rideshare companies also provide contingent comprehensive and collision coverage, assuming the driver has a personal insurance policy.
Transporting a Fare
If an accident occurs while a driver is transporting a customer, Uber and Lyft offer $1 million in liability coverage. They carry uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance and provide contingent comprehensive and collision coverage.
Off the Job
Rideshare drivers who are not online or logged into the app are considered off the job. If they are involved in an accident, they and their insurance companies are responsible for any damages.
Reach out to our team to learn more about the different coverage amounts available for a rideshare wreck.
Statute of Limitations
Injured parties in California have two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury claim. If a personal injury lawsuit is filed after this two-year deadline, the court is likely to dismiss it. While two years may seem like plenty of time, claims involving Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare wrecks in Stockton can be complicated and may require thorough preparation.
Consider, for example, an Uber passenger injured in an accident. The injured passenger may have a claim against the Uber driver, but they may also have grounds to file a claim against Uber itself. If the damages exceed the driver’s insurance coverage, Uber’s commercial liability policy may act as contingency coverage. This coverage can also apply if a third-party (non-Uber) driver caused the accident but lacks adequate insurance to cover all damages. With multiple parties and policies involved, it can be challenging to know where to begin.
A rideshare accident attorney can help by analyzing the case to develop the best strategy for securing compensation for personal injuries. Attorneys can identify the relevant insurance carriers and help file claims on time. Learn more about other claim filing requirements by working with our experienced team.
Contact a Stockton Rideshare Accident Attorney
Securing compensation after an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare accident in Stockton involves much more than simply filing a claim against the at-fault driver. This process requires knowledgeable rideshare attorneys, like those at the Valero Law Group, who understand the unique complexities of filing claims against rideshare companies and their drivers. The right legal team knows how to pursue compensation even if the at-fault party is not affiliated with a rideshare company.
Let our team advocate vigorously on your behalf. We can examine every detail of the accident to build a strong case against the responsible party. Call today to begin working with a dedicated attorney.
Valero Law Group
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