Who Pays for Indianapolis Uber or Lyft Accidents and Injuries?

The popularity of ride sharing services has exploded throughout the country. In fact, according to a Gallup poll, almost half of all 18 to 29-year-olds in the U.S. have at some point used ride sharing as a means of travel.

Uber and Lyft lead the charge in today’s version of the taxi. However, the drivers for both companies operate vehicles that look nothing like the iconic yellow car with a large sign on its roof.

Because rideshare drivers use their personal vehicles, they blend right into traffic. Outside of a small company sticker or lightbox on the vehicle’s dashboard, there’s very little difference, unless you are involved in an Uber or Lyft accident.

Indiana Uber & Lyft Safety and Accident Concerns

Since coming to Indianapolis in 2013, the number of Uber and Lyft drivers on our roads offering ride share services has increased significantly.

And while these drivers are operating in a formal contractor capacity, it does not offer a guarantee against common car accident causes, including:

• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
• Distracted driving (Some on our staff have witnessed texting and driving by their Uber/Lyft driver!)
• Fatigued driving
• Alcohol or drug-related impairments
• Disobeying traffic lights or signs

Conversely, there are also instances where Uber & Lyft drivers have proven to have no fault for an accident. Most recently, a high-profile Indianapolis Uber accident left a Colts player and his driver dead after a man operating his truck under the influence struck them.

No matter who is at fault for an Uber or Lyft accident, the liability factors can quickly become confusing.

Do Uber and Lyft Compensate Accident Victims for Their Injuries?

Depending on the severity of your injuries, and who is at fault for the accident, it is possible that you can recover compensation from an Uber or Lyft accident insurance policy.

However, we strongly advise that you talk to attorney Boulton first so that he can help uncover the liable policy source for your potential compensation.

Unlike a collision between two regular vehicles, Uber and Lyft accidents must be given unique investigative considerations.

After we determine who is at fault for the accident, and whether or not the rideshare app was “on” or “off,” our office would work to recover damages from any one of the following:

• Uber or Lyft driver’s personal insurance company
• Uber or Lyft’s insurance coverage
• Driver and Uber or Lyft’s insurance coverage
• Your personal insurance policy

The Boulton Law Group’s investigation of Uber and Lyft accidents typically uncover one of the following scenarios:

1) The accident occurs while an Uber or Lyft driver has their rideshare app on and is on their way to pick up a passenger, or has a passenger in their vehicle.

In this instance, if the Uber or Lyft driver were at fault, the rideshare company’s policy would most likely be in effect.

Uber and Lyft both carry a minimum of $1million dollars in liability coverage in the event that their driver causes an accident that leaves a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver injured.

2) The accident occurs while an Uber or Lyft driver’s app is on and waiting for a ride request.

In this scenario, if the Uber or Lyft driver is at fault, the rideshare company’s policy may be in effect if the driver’s personal insurance coverage does not offer equal or grater than $50,000 for injuries per person and $100,000 total for the accident.

3) The accident occurs while an Uber or Lyft driver’s app is off and they are not searching for a passenger.

Lastly, if our investigation finds that the rideshare driver was not searching for passengers, and their app was turned off, we would put the driver’s personal policy on notice for any injuries or damages our client has suffered.

Seeking Medical Care After an Uber or Lyft Accident

If an Uber or Lyft accident caused you injuries, it is critical that you first seek medical care before all else.

In addition to receiving the needed treatment for your injuries, Uber and Lyft’s insurance companies will require medical documentation should you wish to pursue a legal claim against them.

Also, it is important that you follow the directions given to you by your doctor. Missing doctor’s appointments or physical therapy will have a negative impact on any potential case and the resulting settlement or award.

Talk to attorney Boulton for a Free Case Evaluation

The Boulton Law Group provides Uber and Lyft accident victims a Zero Fee Guarantee. This means we will never charge a consultation or initial investigation fee, and you owe us nothing until we win your claim.

We have investigated and successfully handled accident claims throughout all of Indiana.

No matter your location, attorney Boulton can visit with you at your home, the hospital, or wherever you feel most comfortable to help determine if you have a case against Uber or Lyft.

To speak to attorney Boulton about your accident case today, you can contact him direct by dialing 317-350-2680.

Additionally, you can write to us using our confidential contact form, or by chatting with us live on our website.