With the introduction of rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft, people
are able to request rides from nearby drivers within minutes, revolutionizing
the way people travel from place to place. These services have exploded
in recent years, with riders and driver numbers increasing at an exponential
rate. Unfortunately, this increase in use has brought with it an increase
in the number of car accidents involving these services. If you should
ever be involved in an accident with an Uber driver, seeking compensation
for your injuries can be an uphill battle due to their company’s
unconventional structure.
Who is Liable: Uber or the Driver?
Uber identifies itself as a technology provider, not a transportation service.
For this reason, they are able to place more blame on their drivers for
any accidents that may occur. Uber drivers are considered to be independent
contractors rather than employees of the company, meaning that you will
have to seek compensation from the driver’s insurance company rather
than from Uber itself.
Uber only covers its drivers in specific situations, including when they
are driving a fare to their destination or when they are driving to pick
up a fare. In other situations, the company has a million dollar car insurance
policy to cover the losses of Uber passengers and those who are injured
by any negligent driving by an Uber driver.
Overall, these cases are extremely complex and require the trained eye
of an experienced attorney to be sorted out. Consulting with a legal professional
is always the best way to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Contact the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A.
If you have been injured as a passenger of an Uber driver or if an Uber
driver has hit you, a Jacksonvillepersonal injury lawyer from the
Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A. is prepared to stand by your side and help you seek the compensation you
deserve. Backed by more than 90 years of dedicated legal experience and
an AV® Rating by Martindale-Hubbell, our Florida
attorneys are prepared to go the distance in the pursuit of securing a fair settlement
on your behalf.
Get help today by
contacting us online or by calling our office at (904) 701-0591.