Hit-and-run accidents can lead to severe consequences and may involve moving vehicles, pedestrians, people on bicycles, parked cars, or any other property that has been struck and left at the scene.
Parties involved in a hit-and-run can even include rideshare drivers, such as Uber or Lyft. These types of hit-and-runs can get very complicated. If a rideshare driver causes a collision and flees the scene of the accident, finding information on that driver can become a daunting task. Confronting a large rideshare company, such as Uber, can also be challenging and stressful. Hiring a knowledgeable and experienced rideshare lawyer who’ll fight for your rights is imperative.
Rideshare Drivers And Insurance Coverage
Fleeing the scene of an accident does not indicate that a rideshare driver is without insurance coverage. In fact, rideshare companies like Uber require that their drivers have personal automobile liability insurance on all cars being operated while driving for Uber. However, depending on the circumstance, a driver may be fully covered through Uber’s insurance during an accident.
The Uber App Is Off
When an accident occurs while the Uber app is turned off, the driver’s personal automobile liability insurance covers the event.
THE UBER APP IS ON – BUT NO PASSENGERS
In case of an accident, while the rideshare app is turned on and the driver is waiting for passengers, the driver’s personal insurance company provides coverage. However, if the driver’s insurance policy rejects the claim, or it’s limited, then Uber will cover the claim. Uber will cover $25,000 for property damage, $50,000 for injury liability, and $100,000 for total liability.
The Uber App Is On – Passengers In Vehicle
An Uber driver has higher coverage when the Uber app is on, and passengers are being driven to their destination. Uber will cover the driver until the passenger or passengers arrive at their stop. If the driver gets into an accident during this time, Uber will provide third-party liability coverage, which includes bodily injuries or property damages with at least $1,000,000 in coverage. Uninsured and underinsured coverage is offered to the driver and passengers if injured during an accident when another driver is at fault. Vehicle damage is also covered as long the driver maintains comprehensive and collision coverage through their personal insurance. A $1,000 deductible applies before any coverage is paid to cover vehicle damages.
An Uber driver should feel secure under this comprehensive insurance policy. However, some drivers flee after causing an accident. Victims are unfortunately left at the scene with injuries and without anyone around to hold accountable.
It does not hurt to know a rideshare company’s insurance policies, more so if a passenger uses their service on a regular basis. Familiarizing yourself with these policies can help if an accident occurs. Accidents can be time-consuming and difficult. However, dealing with a hit-and-run from an Uber or other rideshare drivers can prove even more complicated. Not being able to file a claim with their insurance company properly can leave a victim with mounting damages and unpaid medical bills.
Involved In A Hit-And-Run?
The effects of a hit-and-run can be damaging. When the person responsible flees the scene of an accident, they are willfully neglecting people and property that could be injured or damaged. Even worse, there’s no information to gather from the negligent driver. Victims are left to rely on their personal insurance coverage or pay out of pocket.
Always contact the authorities when a car accident happens, especially when it’s a hit-and-run. Police at the scene will write a police report, and an official investigation will be on file. The investigation and police report can aid and substantiate your insurance claim.
Proving an Uber driver’s liability after a hit-and-run can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Since there isn’t a driver to collect information from, a victim will need to provide proof of liability and damages through other means. Witnesses at the scene are essential. They can provide useful information about the accident. It is vital to collect these accounts. Pictures can also be valuable. Anything that can prove liability will help with the unfortunate circumstance of a hit-and-run.
If you’ve been a victim of a hit-and-run, hiring a qualified and knowledgeable attorney contending on your side is essential. A professional attorney will make sure that the rideshare company takes responsibility for negligence caused by their driver. Your experienced attorney will ensure that you’re rightfully represented in your case.
If you’re in need of legal help involving a hit-and-run and rideshare company, contact our firm today. Our team is dedicated to our clients and helping them get the compensation and restitution they deserve.
