Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are replacing taxis as the go-to option when you need a ride and do not want to drive. They are convenient and affordable, but if you get into an accident and a rideshare vehicle was involved, getting your claim paid can get complicated.
Speak with an auto collision attorney at Phillips Law Group when you are involved in Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Prescott. Whether you were a rideshare passenger or occupying another vehicle when the accident occurred, our skilled legal professionals can ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Rideshare Driver’s Status Is Critical
Arizona has a fault-based system for handling auto accident claims, and the law requires anyone registering a vehicle to have liability insurance. The minimum coverage is $25,000 for injuries to one person, $50,000 for injuries to multiple people, and $15,000 in property damage. Rideshare drivers are independent contractors who drive their own vehicles, and they must have at least this minimum coverage that ensures they will be covered when they use their vehicles for commercial purposes.
Rideshare companies must also carry insurance. Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-4038 covers financial responsibility for TNCs. According to the law, when a driver is logged into the app, the TNC must provide liability coverage of at least $250,000 per incident and uninsured motorist coverage of $250,000 per incident. However, these higher-limit policies only cover an accident that occurs when the driver is logged in.
Someone injured in a crash with a rideshare driver should immediately engage a Prescott attorney, who could demand the TNC preserve records about the driver’s log-in history. This is critical information because the TNC has no obligation to pay when the driver is not logged in. Someone injured in an accident caused by a rideshare driver who was not logged in must rely on the driver’s personal insurance coverage.
Additional Coverage for Uber and Lyft Passengers
Passengers in Uber and Lyft vehicles are covered by the companies’ commercial insurance policies. These offer up to $1 million in coverage for injuries sustained in an accident while using the service, regardless of which driver is at fault.
Claims for People Other Than Rideshare Passengers
Drivers and passengers in another vehicle, pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists might also sustain injuries in an accident with a rideshare driver in Prescott. These claims proceed similarly to claims with any other type of vehicle.
Those involved in the accident should call the police and ask them to attend the crash. Everyone involved should seek medical attention immediately, even if they do not believe they are injured. Many traumatic injuries do not produce symptoms until hours or even days after the incident. A medical screening is essential to limit the potential physical damage and generate a medical record, which could be important evidence in proving a claim.
Seeking legal representation immediately is also essential. An attorney can establish whether the TNC driver was logged in when the accident occurred, which would trigger higher insurance coverage. These companies are often reluctant to pay claims and use delaying tactics and other strategies to discourage claimants from seeking compensation from them rather than the driver’s private insurance. Our team can aggressively pursue the claim until the injured person receives appropriate compensation. This includes taking matters to the courtroom if necessary.
Contact a Prescott Attorney When You Are Involved in an Accident With a Rideshare Company
Rideshare companies are huge businesses, and the companies that provide insurance for them are challenging. Getting an appropriate settlement often requires a fight.
The aggressive attorneys at Phillips Law Group have the skills and expertise to achieve excellent results for victims of Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Prescott. Contact our team today to set up a free consultation with a team member.
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