Rideshare Accidents In Pennsylvania And New Jersey
The popularity of ridesharing apps keeps growing, which makes sense as they can be an incredibly convenient way to get around town if you do not have a car or do not want to fight for a parking spot in a congested area. There are even individuals who use them as an alternative to public transportation or biking to their destination when the weather is poor. While their convenience is wonderful, there are dangers to riding in Uber and Lyft vehicles. After all, they are cars and accidents are possible.
Unfortunately, pedestrians have been struck by Lyft vehicles and people riding in Ubers have been injured in Pennsylvania and New Jersey car accidents. If you were injured in a rideshare accident, talk to a Bucks County car accident lawyer. A legal professional can help you secure a fair compensation amount, rideshare claims can be complicated.
Individual Insurance and Company Insurance
There can be many moving parts when it comes to insurance claims involving a rideshare vehicle such as an Uber or Lyft. One of the reasons for this is that the drivers of these vehicles are not employees of the rideshare company, they are independent contractors who are driving their own personal cars.
How the accident happened can impact which insurance policy will be covering your medical expenses, lost wages, and more. When an Uber driver does not have a customer in their car, it is possible the accident will be determined to be during their personal time, meaning their personal auto insurance policy would cover expenses. But if there was a passenger in their vehicle, it is possible that the insurance of the rideshare company would be responsible for expenses.
Of course there are times when details add to the complexity. For instance, a ridesharing company may say they are not responsible for paying out on expenses because there was no passenger in the car, but the driver may counter that they were waiting for a passenger so they were, technically, using their car for business. If you need help determining liability after your accident, connect with a Bucks County car accident lawyer.
Protecting Your Interests After an Uber or Lyft Accident
After any collision involving vehicles, it is important to gather the information needed to protect yourself moving forward. When an accident involves an Uber or Lyft, collect the following:
- Name and contact information of Lyft or Uber drivers.
- Insurance information from all involved people and parties.
- Make, model, and license plate number of each vehicle involved in the event.
- Witness contract information.
- Document injuries and property damage with photos and videos.
Did you sustain an injury when you were hit by a Lyft while walking in Pennsylvania? Or were you riding in an Uber that was in a New Jersey collision? Contact a member of the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Our attorneys know how to secure the maximum settlement amount possible. Accidents happen every day. When they happen to you, it is essential you have a lawyer fighting for your rights. Reach out today, call 215-968-6602.