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While rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to get around Charlotte, the services they provide are not without their risks. One CDC analysis found that every 100 rideshare trips in any given hour increases the chances of an injury crash by over 4 percent. Here’s what you need to know about those risks—and what you can do if you ever find yourself in a rideshare accident.
Do Uber and Lyft Cover Injuries to Passengers?
The good news for anyone injured in an Uber or Lyft crash in North Carolina is that both companies provide insurance coverage for passengers. Uber’s policy covers up to $1 million for property damage and injuries when one of their drivers causes a crash. Lyft’s policy provides the same coverage.
The bad news is that getting Uber or Lyft to honor an insurance claim can be tricky. They might argue that the other driver caused the crash, meaning their driver (and their insurance policy) isn’t responsible for your injuries. Even if Uber or Lyft accepts your claim, they will likely try to pay you as little as they can. A Charlotte Uber and Lyft accident attorney can help you fight for fair compensation.
Do Uber and Lyft Cover Injuries to Other Drivers?
Uber and Lyft cover injuries their drivers cause other motorists, but only under certain circumstances. If an Uber or Lyft driver is carrying passengers or on their way to pick up a fare when they cause an accident, the companies’ $1 million liability coverage would apply. However, if the driver was logged into the Uber or Lyft app but did not have an active fare, the coverage these companies provide is fairly limited. In these cases, both rideshare operators cover up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for injuries, and up to $25,000 in property damage. This coverage usually does not kick in unless the Uber or Lyft driver’s personal coverage is less than these amounts, though.
Finally, neither Uber nor Lyft covers injuries or property damage when their drivers are not logged into the app. In these cases, the rideshare driver is solely responsible for covering any injuries or property damage they cause.
Your Rights After a North Carolina Uber or Lyft Accident
As with any other car accident in North Carolina, you have the right to file an insurance claim against any liable parties to seek compensation for the harm you’ve suffered. Depending on how the crash happened, the liable parties could include the rideshare driver, other drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, local government bodies, or even Uber or Lyft themselves. Your claim can include compensation for many losses you may have experienced, including:
- Lost income from missing work
- Reduced income from a long-term injury or disability
- Current and future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Diminished quality of life due to an injury or disability
- Damaged personal property
It’s important to file a claim within North Carolina’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases. In general, you have three years from the date of an Uber or Lyft crash to file a lawsuit.
How Our Charlotte Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers Can Help
Whether you were injured while a passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle or because a rideshare driver struck your car, Bradford Law can help you seek fair compensation. We’ll handle all the legal work for you, from documenting your injuries to gathering evidence to negotiating a fair settlement. If necessary, we’ll take your case to trial to protect your rights and help you recover the money you need.
Don’t wait to protect your rights after an Uber or Lyft accident. Call Bradford Law today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
