Las Vegas is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year with its glittering lights, world-class casinos, and endless entertainment options. With so much to see and do, getting around the city can be a challenge, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Before you take that next Uber or Lyft, you need to check out our advice for ridesharing users below.
Rideshare Drivers and Motor Vehicle Collisions
Motor vehicle collisions are a common occurrence on the roads, and rideshare drivers are no exception. While rideshare companies take various steps to ensure the safety of their drivers and passengers, accidents can still happen. Understanding the role of rideshare drivers in motor vehicle collisions and the insurance coverage available can help ensure that you are protected in the event of an accident.
When a rideshare driver is involved in a collision, their personal auto insurance policy may provide some coverage, but this may be limited. The extent of coverage provided by the driver’s personal auto insurance policy can depend on the policy’s specific terms and conditions, as well as the state laws governing auto insurance.
In most cases, the rideshare company’s insurance policy provides primary coverage when the driver is en route to pick up a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle. This means that it is the first line of defense in the event of an accident.
As a passenger, it is important to be aware of the insurance coverage provided by the rideshare company you are using. We can’t stress how important this advice for ridesharing users truly is. Each rideshare company has varying requirements for their driver’s coverage, and each company has its own limits beyond what they require of the drivers. It is absolutely crucial to do your research and know what the coverage is before using these services.
As a passenger in a rideshare vehicle involved in an accident, it’s generally a good idea to contact an attorney. If you were injured in the accident, an attorney can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Even if you were not injured, an attorney can still be helpful in ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair settlement from the insurance company.
If the accident was complex or if the insurance company is not cooperating, an attorney can provide guidance and help you navigate the legal process. They can also help you understand your options and assist you in negotiating a settlement.
It’s important to remember that each case is unique, and the best course of action will depend on the specific circumstances of your situation. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and options and determine the best way to proceed.
Important Advice for Ridesharing Users: Insurance Coverage Options
Ride-sharing insurance is a crucial aspect of ride-sharing, as it provides financial protection for both riders and drivers in the event of an accident. Understanding ride-sharing insurance coverage can be complex, as it often involves multiple insurance policies and coverage levels.
In a rideshare situation, there are three parties involved: the driver, the passenger, and the ridesharing company. Each of these parties may have its own insurance policy, which can create confusion in the event of an accident.
The ridesharing company, such as Uber or Lyft, typically provides liability insurance coverage for their drivers while they are working. This means that if the driver causes an accident while driving a passenger, the ridesharing company’s insurance policy will cover any damages or injuries caused to the passengers and other parties involved.
However, the coverage provided by the ridesharing company may not be enough to fully cover all damages or injuries in some cases. For example, if the driver has a personal auto insurance policy that doesn’t cover commercial use, the ridesharing company’s insurance may only provide limited coverage. In such a case, passengers may need to turn to their own insurance policies to cover any remaining costs.
It’s also worth noting that the ridesharing company’s insurance policy may not cover the driver or passengers if they were not logged into the app at the time of the accident. This means that if a driver is using their personal vehicle for personal use and not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance policy would apply instead of the ridesharing company’s insurance policy.
While suits involving multiple insurances and multiple defendants can be cumbersome and confusing for some, it can often be worth it in the end. Take for instance the case of Sattar v. Uber Technologies Inc. In this case, a passenger was injured when the Uber driver crashed the car. The passenger sued both the driver and Uber, claiming that they were negligent in hiring the driver and failing to properly supervise him. The court found that Uber’s insurance policy provided coverage for the accident and awarded the passenger a settlement of $1 million.
Of course, these results are not always typical, and you should never assume you will be awarded a similar amount, but it helps to highlight how seriously these scenarios can be, and how important it is to understand what you are getting involved in.
Passengers in a rideshare situation should be aware of the insurance options available to them in case of an accident. The ridesharing company typically provides liability insurance coverage for their drivers while they are working, but this coverage may not be enough to fully cover all damages or injuries.
Passengers may need to turn to their own insurance policies to cover any remaining costs. As always, we recommend getting some level of Uninsured/Underinsured coverage, which helps pay you in the case that the driver’s or company’s insurance does not cover everything.
It’s important to understand the insurance policies of all parties involved in a rideshare situation to ensure that you are fully covered in case of an accident.
Why You Might Need a Ride-Sharing Attorney
While ride-sharing can be a convenient and affordable option for getting around Las Vegas, there may be times when you may need the assistance of a ride-sharing attorney. Here are some situations where you might consider hiring an attorney:
- Accidents: If you are involved in a ride-sharing accident, you may need an attorney to help you navigate the legal system and ensure that you receive proper compensation.
- Driver Negligence: If you feel that your ride-sharing driver was acting negligently, you may need an attorney to help you prove your case and receive compensation for any damages.
- Insurance Issues: If you are having trouble getting your insurance claim paid or if you need help understanding your policy, an attorney can provide you with the guidance you need.
- Contracts and Agreements: If you are having trouble understanding the terms of your ride-sharing agreement or if you are being sued by the company, an attorney can help you navigate these complex legal issues.
Having a ride-sharing attorney on your side can be extremely helpful if you are involved in any legal issues related to your ride-sharing experience. They can help you understand your rights, negotiate with the other parties involved, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
In conclusion, while ride-sharing can make your trip to Las Vegas more convenient and affordable, there may be times when you need the assistance of an attorney. Whether you are dealing with an accident, driver negligence, insurance issues, or contract disputes, having a ride-sharing attorney on your side can provide you with the support you need to navigate these complex legal issues.
If you have been personally injured as a result of a ride-sharing experience, contact Willoughby Shulman, your personal injury attorney today, they can answer all your questions and address any concerns you might have.