"In a recent New York Times article examining the business practices of ride sharing companies Uber and Lyft - it has found a pattern of lack of adequate insurance coverage. That is auto coverage that would compensate you (the passenger) if you are injured in an accident caused by the driver of the Lyft or Uber vehicle. These companies encourage their drivers to report any claims under the drivers own auto policies. However (as Uber and Lyft are aware) most personal auto policies EXCLUDE coverage in circumstances where the driver is transporting people for a fee or as a business. This means if you are injured in an accident caused by an Uber or Lyft ride sharing driver, there may be NO INSURANCE coverage under the driver's policy to compensate you for your broken arm or whiplash neck surgery.
As the New York Times article reported: Lyft and Uber's uberX service help people who need rides find drivers who offer them using their private vehicles.
The two companies have been waging an aggressive fight to avoid taking full responsibility for making sure drivers have the right kinds of insurance and lots of it. Late last month in California, an overwhelming bipartisan majority of lawmakers ordered these transportation companies to start doing just that next year.
When you own a car and buy insurance, the policy almost always says that it won't apply if you're charging people money to drive them around. Even so, services like uberX that help drivers rent rides began their operations by telling drivers to submit insurance claims from on-the-job accidents to their personal insurance carriers first. " Sometimes the company may provide supplemental insurance - but sometimes not.
Are you suffering after an accident involving a taxicab or a vehicle used in the operation of an on-demand car service such as Uber or Lyft' Whether you were a passenger in the hired car, injured in another vehicle or hurt while walking or biking, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages.
The "rideshare" services offered by Uber and Lyft have gained popularity in the Nashville metro area as convenient, lower-cost alternatives to traditional taxis. Unfortunately, every ride involves risk. Sometimes leaving the driving to someone else is a decision you regret. If you or a family member has been injured, highly experienced injury attorney Michael K. Smith will assess your case and your rights, beginning with a free consultation.
Hurt In A Hired Vehicle' Did A Cab Or 'Rideshare' Driver Cause Your Injuries'
Recovering compensation after a Tennessee roadway accident requires your lawyer to prove liability and establish damages. In most situations, the steps and approach required after a taxi accident, Uber accident or Lyft accident will mirror those of other auto accidents. However:
- Lyft and Uber drivers are contractors, in many cases driving personal vehicles covered by their own insurance. Getting the information you need to file a successful claim may be extremely challenging on your own.
- While both of these on-demand car services promote insurance coverage applicable to riders, you should trust only a qualified attorney to evaluate and explain your rights.
- Uber and Lyft are fledgling companies fighting it out for market share. It stands to reason that they will defend their profits and reputations aggressively when faced with litigation alleging negligence.
After a serious accident, you must focus on physical and emotional recovery. Our team at the Law Office of Michael K. Smith will step in to battle for every dollar you deserve. Respected by other lawyers for his trial skills and in-depth understanding of complex insurance issues, attorney Michael K. Smith will prioritize your case and take it through trial if needed.
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Turn To Us For Personal Attention And Smart, Aggressive Representation
For results-driven advocacy in your taxi or hired car accident, beginning with a free consultation and case evaluation, call 615-620-5833 or toll free at 615-620-5833. You will owe us no attorney fees unless we take your case and successfully obtain compensation for you.
