Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become common modes of transportation in Orange County. However, when accidents occur, the question of responsibility arises. According to Uber and Lyft’s websites, the liability in such incidents hinges on various factors, particularly the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
A passenger onboard or en route to pick up
When a trip is accepted by a driver, the driver receives the rider’s pickup address and navigational directions to reach them. At this point, the driver is en route to pick up the rider.
A rider is considered onboard once they are found by the driver, safely in the vehicle, and the trip has started.
If the driver is involved in an accident during this time Uber/Lyft provides:
– $1 million in third-party liability.
– $50,000 in bodily injury per person.
– $100,000 in bodily injury per accident.
– $25,000 in property damage per accident.
Logged into the app awaiting a ride request
When a driver is logged into the Uber/Lyft app and is awaiting a ride request, they are considered to be “online” but not yet engaged in a trip. This status means that the driver can accept ride requests from passengers in the nearby area.
During this time if the driver is at fault and injures a third party, coverage provided by Uber/Lyft includes:
– $50,000 for injury/death to one person.
– $100,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
– $25,000 for property damage.
Driving on Personal Time / The app is Turned Off
– The driver’s personal insurance company and coverages apply.
Determining Negligence
Liability often rests on whether the driver’s actions were negligent, a key aspect of California’s accident law. The law mandates drivers to exercise reasonable care on the road, which includes attentiveness to pedestrians, other vehicles, and obstacles, alongside controlling their vehicle’s speed and movements. A deviation from this duty of care, especially if it results in an accident, places the negligence tag on the driver.
Seeking Legal Assistance
If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident, contact the Orange County rideshare accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell for a free consultation. Let us advocate for your rightful compensation. Our no-win, no-fee guarantee ensures a risk-free pathway towards justice.
