Getting into any accident is awful—including those that happen in an Uber, Lyft or other ridesharing service. But as an Uber passenger, you actually have a big advantage over other accident victims: your injuries are covered by massive insurance policies.
In fact, passengers in Uber or Lyft accident can end up having all of their costs paid by insurance—including losses like pain and suffering. Here’s what you need to know.
Uber and Lyft Carry $1 Million in Liability Insurance
Under Georgia law, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft must carry insurance that provides at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance per occurrence. That means there is up to $1 million available for you in your accident.
This is a very unusual situation for an accident victim: state law only requires regular drivers to carry $25,000 per victim in liability insurance. Many drivers choose to carry more, but few carry a million dollars. That means that the money is available even for very serious car accidents.
Not only that, but these companies must also carry “uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance.” That means you’re covered even if the accident was a different driver’s fault, and even if they don’t have insurance (or not enough to cover your injuries).
Of course, it’s possible for some car accident claims to go over $1 million. In that case, the company itself may be liable for the difference. But in most cases, all of your costs and losses could potentially be covered by insurance.
Passengers Are Not at Fault in Uber Accidents
The other factor in car accident claims is fault. In Georgia, the person who causes the accident—or their insurance—must pay for it. If you were driving your own car, that would mean either you or the other driver is liable. But in an Uber? You were the passenger. The accident is not your fault. It was either caused by your Uber driver, or by a different vehicle.
That means there should be no question about the validity of your claim. You have a right to recover money.
Should I still talk to a lawyer?
Yes. The fact that Uber and Lyft has deep pockets works both for and against you. On the one hand, it’s why they can afford to carry a $1 million policy per accident. On the other, it also means that they—and the insurance company representing them—are well armed to fight your insurance claim. Insurers always want to pay less when they can, or even find a reason to deny claims. Your lawyer is the one who knows how to fight back and force them to pay the full amount they owe.
It doesn’t cost you anything to talk to a lawyer and get the advice you need. Let us give you a FREE consultation to answer your questions. Call us at (404) 341-6555 or fill out the form to the right to get your free consultation today.
