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 Jacksonville personal 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.