If you’re in an accident in an Uber or Lyft, you have another layer of complexity in the mix. While rideshare services have been around since 2011, there are still questions about who’s liable in the event of a crash. If you’ve been in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, Attorney Big Al, Law Office of Richard Klein can help you navigate the legal situation.
Rideshare Regulations in Maryland
Every state has different regulations in regard to rideshare services. Maryland has regulations that help protect you and other patrons utilizing these services. The government has passed legislation that makes Uber and Lyft adhere to the same standards as taxis, limousines, and other hired transportation services.
While other states let rideshare services regulate themselves, Maryland uses the Maryland Public Service Commission to regulate these companies. They’re the ones that give out licenses to rideshare drivers. They do background checks and fingerprint drivers to ensure the safety of passengers. There are insurance company requirements that you need to meet as well.
How Rideshare Insurance Works
Rideshare drivers are all required to have their own auto insurance policies since they use their own cars. As for Uber and Lyft in particular, these companies also have additional insurance on top of those personal policies that help protect both the passenger and the driver. There are three tiers of coverage based on what part of the ride the passenger is in.
If the driver doesn’t have the app turned on, the only coverage that applies is the personal coverage they have. If the driver has the app on and in driver mode but didn’t accept your ride on the app just yet, the driver has coverage. For example, by the rideshare company’s liability policy up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident total for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
From the time the driver accepts your ride up until the time you reach your destination, they’re covered by the rideshare company’s auto liability coverage and uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage up to a million dollars for injuries. In the event of property damage, the entire car is covered up to the cash value of the car or the cost of repairs, whichever is a lower amount. Want to learn more about Personal injury? See, Personal Injury.
Suing After a Rideshare Accident
In the past, it was possible to sue a rideshare company after an accident. But now it is not possible to sue Uber or Lyft because they are considered transportation providers. It’s difficult to sue the rideshare company directly, as they don’t consider their drivers to be actual employees.
The reason behind this is that the companies classify their drivers as independent contractors and not employees. This means that drivers are responsible for their own insurance and car maintenance costs. This helps free the company from blame for the actions of their employees when it comes to accident liability. The drivers are freelance and the rideshare company just provides the technology that allows the drivers to connect with passengers.
Contact Our Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Maryland
If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, you’re going to need help with the legal processes afterward. Make sure you’re saving all of the documentation from medical personnel in regards to your injuries, as well as any paperwork from the police. Our accident attorney can discuss your case with you and determine the best way to move forward with legal action.
Make sure you’re getting the compensation you deserve after a traumatic accident. Call 410-291-8012 or 1-800-HURT-123 to talk to our Big Al Baltimore rideshare accident lawyers. You can also request a consultation online.