843-636-TREY
Ride sharing has transformed the way we get around in Charleston. In addition to providing a quick and affordable way of getting from place to place, it has also boosted the gig economy. Almost anyone can drive for Uber & Lyft if they need cash.
But Ubers and Lyfts also produce some cause for concern. Despite background checks, you can never be sure of who you are getting in the car with. You may end up with an unskilled or careless driver that can get you into an accident as a passenger. You can also get into a crash with a rideshare driver.
When an Uber or Lyft accident occurs, many questions arise. Mainly, who is responsible for damages? Is it the driver, the rideshare company, or a third party?
Trey Harrell Auto Accident and Personal Injury Attorney has extensive experience with Uber and Lyft accidents, and we know exactly who to target for damages. Call us at 843-701-8029 so we can seek the compensation you deserve.
What Kind of Damages Can I Collect in an Uber of Lyft Accident?
The amount you can collect for an Uber or Lyft accident will vary depending on the driver’s status during the crash. Here are some examples.
The driver is not on the app
A rideshare driver must be actively working to be covered by the company’s insurance. If they are not on the app, they are not considered to be working. Therefore, the company insurance will not kick in if an accident occurs. However, you may still go after the driver for damages as you would in any other accident.
The driver does not have a customer
The second scenario involves the driver driving around while logged into the app but they do not have a paying customer in the car. In accordance with South Carolina law, the rideshare company would provide coverage as follows:
- Up to $50,000 for death or bodily injury
- Up to $100,000 per accident for all personal injuries and wrongful death claims
- Up to $50,000 for property damage
If the driver has a paying customer
If the driver is riding with a paying customer, they must pay at least $1 million for death, bodily injury, and property damage.
What Happens If Another Car Hits My Lyft or Uber?
If you are riding in a Lyft or Uber vehicle and are hit by another car due to the other driver’s negligence or reckless behavior, you will need to go after the other driver for damages. However, if that driver is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company’s motorist protection will kick in.
Who Covers Rideshare Drivers?
While rideshare passengers are covered by the company insurance, the same can’t be said of the drivers. Rideshare drivers must go through their own insurance to be covered for damage and injuries.
However, if the driver has collision/comprehensive coverage through their private insurance, the rideshare company will cover property damage to the driver’s vehicle regardless of who is at fault for the accident. The coverage will not exceed the total cash value of the vehicle and is subject to deductibles.
What Requirements Must South Carolina Rideshare Drivers Meet?
South Carolina rideshare drivers must meet certain requirements to drive. In terms of driver safety, they must:
- Have a valid driver’s license
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be licensed to drive in the United States for at least three years if they are under the age of 23
- Have valid auto insurance
- Pass a background check and driving record check
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Charleston?
Rideshare accidents can happen for any reason any other accident can happen on the road. Common causes include:
- Speeding: When rideshare drivers are driving all day, they are likely to get impatient and speed which increases the risk of an accident.
- Distracted driving: Rideshare drivers can get distracted by their devices, surroundings or thoughts. If they aren’t focused on the road, they are more likely to get into an accident.
- Faulty equipment: If car equipment breaks down, it can cause unsafe conditions for drivers. While the rideshare company may cover these types of damages, they may be the fault of the car manufacturer or mechanic.
- Disobeying the rules of the road: If a rideshare driver is in the car with a passenger, they may be less likely to do reckless things like run red lights or disobey stop signs, but that doesn’t mean it won’t happen.
What Kind of Damages Can You Collect in a Charleston Rideshare Accident?
The damages you can collect in an Uber or Lyft accident will vary depending on your personal and professional situation and the extent of your losses. However, you may be reimbursed for the following:
- Medical expenses: These include expenses incurred at the time of the accident as well as those to cover future care.
- Loss of earnings: These damages will cover any earnings lost for time you needed to take off work to recover.
- Loss of potential future earnings: Your injuries may cause you to be unable to return to the job you were employed at, or you may not be able to go back to work at all. If this is the case, you will need to be covered for the reduction in salary.
- Emotional pain and suffering: Many accidents leave victims traumatized. Victims will need to be compensated for their emotional pain and suffering.
- Wrongful death: If an Uber or Lyft accident leads to wrongful death, the family of the deceased may go after the defendant for loss of financial support to the family, the family’s emotional pain and suffering, burial expenses and more.
How Your Charleston Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer Can Get You Compensated
Uber and Lyft companies will try to get you the lowest possible payout for your claim. An experienced Charleston Uber/Lyft accident lawyer will see to it that you are fairly compensated. If you are looking for the lawyer that’s right for you, call Trey Harrell Auto Accident and Personal Injury Attorney.
Trey Harrell’s team is well versed in motor vehicle accident case law. You’ll have our attentive customer service and expertise that’s helped us achieve winning results for victims like you. We are We will dedicate our time to maximize your recovery.
Uber or Lyft accident? Don’t delay, call Trey today!
