Companies like Uber and Lyft provide convenient and affordable transportation options for riders. However, with the rise in the popularity of ridesharing services, there has also been an increase in the number of rideshare accidents. If you or a loved one have been involved in a rideshare accident near Washington Court House, Ohio, it is important to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation.
What are the Uber and Lyft Insurance Requirements?
Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft are required by law to provide insurance coverage for their drivers and passengers. In Ohio, the minimum insurance requirements for rideshare drivers are as follows:
Period 1: When the driver is online and waiting for a ride request but has not yet accepted a ride. During this period, the rideshare company is required to provide liability insurance coverage of at least $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
Period 2: When the driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger(s). During this period, the rideshare company is required to provide liability insurance coverage of at least $1 million for bodily injury and property damage.
Period 3: When the passenger(s) are in the vehicle. During this period, the rideshare company is required to provide liability insurance coverage of at least $1 million for bodily injury and property damage, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
It’s important to note that while the rideshare company’s insurance policies may provide coverage, they may not always be sufficient to cover the full extent of damages and losses suffered by victims of rideshare accidents. In these cases, it may be necessary to pursue compensation through other avenues, such as the driver’s personal insurance policy or through a legal claim against the at-fault party.
It’s also worth noting that rideshare drivers are required to carry their own personal auto insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum requirements. However, personal auto insurance policies typically do not provide coverage for accidents that occur while the driver is engaged in commercial activities, such as driving for a rideshare company. In these cases, the rideshare company’s insurance policies may provide the primary coverage.
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, it’s important to consult with our experienced personal injury attorneys who can help determine the appropriate course of action to seek maximum compensation for your damages and losses.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Many factors can contribute to a rideshare accident in Washington Court House, Ohio. Some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents include:
Distracted driving: Like any driver, rideshare drivers can become distracted while on the road. However, because rideshare drivers often rely on their smartphones to receive ride requests and navigate to their destination, distractions can be even more common.
Reckless driving: In an effort to maximize their earnings, some rideshare drivers may drive aggressively or engage in other reckless behaviors.
Fatigue: Rideshare drivers often work long hours in order to meet demand, which can lead to fatigue and a higher risk of accidents.
Fatigue: Rideshare drivers often work long hours in order to meet demand, which can lead to fatigue and a higher risk of accidents.
Common Injuries from Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-threatening injuries. Some of the most common injuries that can result from a rideshare accident include:
Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury that can occur in car accidents when the head and neck are jerked suddenly forward and then back again.
Broken bones: The force of a rideshare accident can cause bones to break, which can be a painful and debilitating injury.
Back injuries: Back injuries can be particularly serious and may result in chronic pain, limited mobility, and other long-term complications.
Traumatic brain injuries: A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can occur when the head is jolted or struck in an accident. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, and can have long-term effects on cognitive function, memory, and more.
In addition to physical injuries, rideshare accident victims may also suffer from emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. These emotional injuries can be just as devastating as physical injuries and may require ongoing medical treatment, therapy, and medication.
What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you are involved in a rideshare accident in Washington Court House, Ohio, it’s important to take the following steps:
Call 911: If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if there are no injuries, it’s important to report the accident to the police.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not present symptoms until later.
Gather Information: Collect the names and contact information of all drivers involved, as well as any witnesses to the accident. Take pictures of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles.
Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft: Report the accident to the rideshare company as soon as possible. They will likely ask for a police report, so be sure to obtain one.
Contact an Experienced Rideshare Accident Attorney: A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities of a rideshare accident and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
How Kruger & Hodges Can Help Rideshare Accident Victims
At Kruger & Hodges, our experienced personal injury attorneys have helped many victims of accidents in Washington Court House, Ohio. We understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to fighting for the rights of our clients. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to determine liability. We will also work with medical professionals to document your injuries and calculate the full extent of your damages. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident in Washington Court House, Ohio, contact Kruger & Hodges today for a free consultation. We are here to help.
