Introduction
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. Taxicab companies have long been a popular in Columbus Georgia but the rise of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft has brought new options. But they are not the same and it is important to understand the differences between being in a cab and being in an Uber or Lyft if you are injured in a car wreck. There are major disparities in insurance coverage provided by each service.
Insurance Coverage for Taxi Passengers
If you are injured by a cab – or riding in a cab when it causes a wreck, you typically must rely on the taxi company’s insurance policy for coverage. These policies typically have liability limits which meet only the minimum requirements of Georgia and Alabama (only $25,000 in coverage) and do NOT include uninsured motorists’ coverage. It is also important to note that taxi accidents can lead to complex legal situations involving multiple parties including the cab driver, the cab company, and other motorists. Understanding who is liable for your injuries and how to pursue a claim can be challenging.
The Insurance Coverage Provided by rideshare drivers with Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft operate differently. These ridesharing companies consider their drivers to be independent contractors, which affects the insurance coverage available to passengers. Both Uber and Lyft have developed insurance policies to cover passengers and drivers while they are logged into their respective apps and are provided in amounts far in excess of the minimum limits – usually providing up to $1,000,000 in coverage.
When a rideshare, driver is “on the clock” and has a passenger in the vehicle, both Uber and Lyft provide significant liability coverage. This coverage includes bodily injury, property damage, AND uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. These policies typically offer higher coverage limits than traditional taxi insurance and an extra layer of protection for passengers.
However, when a rideshare driver is “off the clock” and not actively accepting or carrying passengers, the insurance coverage provided by Uber or Lyft may not apply. In such cases, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy is expected to cover any accidents.
Seeking Legal Assistance from the Law Offices of Gary Bruce
If you have been injured in a car wreck, whether as a passenger in a cab, Uber, or Lyft, it is helpful to consult with a knowledgeable lawyer who can guide you through the process. The Law Offices of Gary Bruce can help explain your rights and options and assist you in obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Listen to Gary’s thoughts on the subject:
Use this link to watch Gary discuss the differences between dealing with a cab company and an uber driver on the WTVM Legal Break program. https://www.garybrucelaw.com/video/wtvm-legal-break-uber-vs-cab/
Conclusion
Being injured in a car wreck can be a life-altering event, and understanding the insurance coverage available to you is crucial. While taxis rely on their own insurance policies, ride–sharing services like Uber and Lyft generally offer additional coverage for passengers – and the others involved in a wreck.
If you have been injured in a car wreck, whether in a cab, Uber, or Lyft, consult with the experienced personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Gary Bruce. With their knowledge and expertise, they can help you review your legal options, determine liability, and pursue fair compensation. Call the Law Office of Gary Bruce today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards obtaining the justice you deserve.