Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers in Mississippi
Taking on Rideshare Companies so You Don’t Have To
No one ever expects to get into a car accident. This is especially true when you pay for your ride. Unfortunately, Uber and Lyft drivers are just as likely to be in a car crash as anyone else on the road. When these collisions occur, the resulting insurance claims can be just as nightmarish as any injuries or losses the accident inspires.
If you were seriously injured in an Uber or Lyft crash, don’t let big businesses take advantage of you. Instead, contact Mama Justice – MW Law Firm and find out how we can help.
How Are Uber & Lyft Accidents Different Than Other Car Accidents?
In many ways, Uber and Lyft accidents are similar to other car accidents. You will still need to find fault, seek medical attention after your collision, and work with insurance companies. The biggest difference is that multiple parties, and possibly multiple insurance companies, will be involved in any claim you file after an accident involving Uber or Lyft.
If you are driving your own car when you collide with an Uber or Lyft, for example, the process will be almost the same as if you were in any other accident. The at-fault driver will be responsible for any damages the accident causes. The big difference here is that the driver’s personal insurance company will likely deny their claim, as the driver was using their car for commercial purposes. When this happens, Uber and Lyft have limited liability insurance policies that can cover your injuries.
This same principle applies if you were an Uber or Lyft passenger at the time of the accident.
Can I Sue Uber or Lyft?
Because rideshare companies hire drivers as “independent contractors,” you cannot technically sue the company for the negligence of their employees. That being said, you can still hold Uber and Lyft responsible for the financial consequences of your crash. Uber and Lyft recognize that most of their contractors do not have business “endorsements” on their insurance policies, so they provide back-up insurance when claims are denied.
To receive coverage from Uber or Lyft, you must first file a claim against their driver’s insurance company. Once this claim is rejected, you can file with company insurers. Like any other insurance companies, however, the insurers who represent Uber and Lyft are concerned with their bottom line. They may low-ball your claim or avoid paying out policy maximums.
Our attorneys can help you get a more favorable settlement. We are licensed and have active cases in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama.
How Coverage Works in Uber & Lyft Accidents
Just because the car who hit you has an Uber or Lyft sticker does not mean company insurance will apply in your crash. Conversely, Uber and Lyft passengers will almost always be covered in the event of a collision. This is because Uber and Lyft provide different levels of coverage for drivers, depending on when the accident occurs.