In recent years, rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have skyrocketed in popularity, especially in major cities such as Austin.
Almost anyone can become a driver, and in exchange, customers can get rides wherever they need to go. However, an increase in rideshare drivers on the road means there will be an increase in accidents.
But who is liable in a rideshare accident involving an uber or a lyft driver? As a passenger, what options do you have for recovery?
The experienced Austin rideshare injury attorneys at DJC Law have handled numerous cases involving Uber drivers and Lyft drivers.
Contact one of our rideshare accident lawyers to find out how they can help you get the compensation you need and deserve for your injuries.
Experienced Texas Auto Accident Lawyers Representing Victims of Rideshare Negligence
Are Uber and Lyft Drivers Required to Carry Insurance?
The victim of a rideshare vehicle accident typically has two avenues to collect compensation for injuries from a ridesharing accident.
The first involves collection through the rideshare driver’s personal auto insurance policy. All drivers for companies like Uber or Lyft are required to carry insurance.
Second, if the driver’s policy does not fully cover the claims, rideshare companies have liability coverage for their drivers
Uber maintains a $1 million policy to cover y outstanding claims. This policy covers the passengers of their ridesharing vehicles.
The drivers are also covered if they are not at fault for causing the accident. The policy extends to bystanders who get injured when a rideshare vehicle is involved.
Speaking with an experienced rideshare attorney in Austin after you've been injured in a rideshare accident cannot be overstated.
Texas only allows two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for damages. In addition, hiring a lawyer can protect you from insurers trying to mitigate their damages by getting you to make a statement against your own best interests or admitting some fault in the accident.
By hiring a lawyer, insurance companies are required to go through the attorney for all questions, statements, and settlement negotiations.
What Damages Can You Recover for Your Ridesharing Accident Injuries?
Passengers injured in rideshare vehicles are entitled to economic and noneconomic damages for the harm caused by a rideshare car accident.
Economic damages include property damage, current and future medical bills, lost income, and the loss of future earning capacity and benefits.
Noneconomic damages include payment for pain and suffering, emotional distress, disability, disfigurement, and the loss of enjoyment of life.
Texas operates as a modified comparative fault state, which means that if another party in the accident claims that you were partially at fault, the court will determine the degree of fault for every person involved in the accident and reduce the overall compensation by that amount.
However, if a party is found more than 51 percent at fault for the accident, they are barred from recovery. An experienced rideshare car accident attorney can fight any claims of fault in a rideshare accident and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Get Help From Our Austin Auto Accident Lawyers Today
If you have been injured as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, speak with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys about your legal options. Contact the office of DJC Law in Austin today to schedule a free consultation of your case.