Having someone drive you around is all the fun of living in a big city. It’s a common part of some people’s daily lives. This is why apps like Uber and Lyft exist to help the masses get around big cities or towns. However, with this convenience comes the potential for accidents. When a rideshare accident occurs, determining liability can be a complex process that involves various parties. It’s important to understand the factors that are involved in these types of accidents. That way you’re not surprised when things don’t go your way.
The Driver’s Role:
The driver’s role in an accident is to find out is caused the accident, especially in a rideshare accident. Rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors rather than employees of the rideshare companies. This is where it can get tricky to figure out who to blame.
If the driver is the one, then they would have to take care of the damages. However, rideshare companies typically provide insurance coverage to their drivers while they are on the app and transporting passengers. The insurance can help you if your one can’t cover your damages.
Rideshare Company’s Liability:
Rideshare companies also have a level of liability for accidents involving their drivers. While drivers are independent contractors, rideshare companies have a responsibility to ensure their drivers meet certain safety standards. If it’s found that the rideshare company failed to properly vet a driver, provide adequate training, or address previous safety concerns, they might share liability for the accident.
Additionally, if the driver was acting within the scope of their job – such as actively looking for a passenger or transporting one – the rideshare company’s insurance coverage can come into play.
Third-Party Liability:
Liability in rideshare accident isn’t limited to just the driver and the rideshare company. Other people can be considered liable. If other drivers are driving erratically on the road and cause an accident with the rideshare, then those drivers are responsible.
Similarly, if a defective auto part contributes to the accident, the manufacturer of the faulty part could be held liable. This can cause issues when you are trying to figure out who is at fault. There are lots of factors with third parties that a legal team can lay out for you when are building your claim.
Passenger Rights:
Passengers have the right to have their injuries covered if they are involved in an accident. If the rideshare driver’s negligence caused the accident, passengers can typically file a claim against the driver’s insurance or the rideshare company’s insurance, depending on the circumstances.
That way they can seek compensation for those who caused it. Passengers need to gather evidence that supports their claims and hire a lawyer who can assist them. This can greatly raise their chances of receiving justice and having their damages paid for.
Bottomline:
In the aftermath of a rideshare accident, determining liability is a multifaceted process that involves considering the roles of various parties. Rideshare drivers, rideshare companies, third parties, and even passengers’ rights all play a part in the complex web of liability. It’s hard to pinpoint who exactly is at fault here.
That’s why having a legal professional on your side can make all the difference. They know necessary to build your claim. You won’t have to stress about expenses because they will get you the money you need.
