Understanding Uber’s Liability in Phoenix Accidents – How an Attorney Can Help
Uber and Lyft have become commonplace options for getting around Phoenix, but this convenience comes with risks. If you are hurt in a collision with an Uber driver, working with a knowledgeable lawyer is essential.
A Phoenix Uber accident attorney could help you navigate the fine print of these companies’ insurance policies to pursue compensation. An experienced lawyer could also assist you in filing a claim against third parties contributing to your injuries.
Insurance Coverage
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As a leading ridesharing company, Uber offers its drivers commercial auto insurance in case of an accident. This third-party insurance coverage comes into effect once the driver’s private policy has reached its limits and is only available while they have an active Uber ride request in their app.
However, a Phoenix Uber accident attorney could help you understand these complicated insurance policies. Because Uber’s vehicles are not deemed commercial, it is difficult to determine how much liability the firm can take for accidents caused by its independent contractors.
However, acting quickly after an accident involving an Uber driver is essential. Contact the company’s support line and ensure you receive a detailed incident report for your personal injury claim. Providing all the necessary information could be crucial to your legal case and help you secure compensation for damages. Moreover, it could also be beneficial in establishing vicarious liability. For example, punitive damages could be awarded if the at-fault driver used their smartphone while driving or engaged in other reckless behavior.
Independent Contractor Drivers
If you’re injured in an accident caused by an Uber driver, it can be difficult to determine liability. This is because the company argues that drivers are independent contractors and not its employees. As a result, they do not have to follow the same rules as taxi businesses.
Uber mandates that all of its users have personal auto insurance, and the company also provides commercial coverage that varies depending on what stage of the ride they’re in. This coverage is secondary and only comes into play if the driver’s insurance does not fully cover the damages.
It is vital to hire a skilled Phoenix Uber crash lawyer to help you navigate the complex insurance system and understand how your injuries, losses, and other damages might be compensated. An experienced lawyer can help you pursue all the damages you are entitled to under Arizona law. This covers remuneration for your medical costs, missed pay, and suffering and anguish.
Third-Party Liability
Like traditional taxi cab companies, ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft allow individuals to call upon a vehicle for transportation without waiting on a car or hailing one on the street. These transportation network company (TNC) drivers, also known as independent contractors, can be ordered via a mobile phone application or scheduled ahead of time through an app.
Uber and other providers of ridesharing services contend that they are not accountable for the conduct of their drivers while they are on the job, in contrast to employees of a corporation who may be held vicariously liable for the torts committed by their contract workers. This complicates and limits the availability of insurance coverage for victims.
An expert lawyer can assist in determining who is responsible for an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver. Under comparative negligence law, any parties found to be at fault for the accident would be obligated to pay damages proportionate to their share of responsibility.
Damages
If you have been hurt in a crash with an Uber driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. The total amount of your damages will depend on the extent of your injuries and other factors. Still, a skilled Phoenix Uber accident lawyer could help you obtain the maximum settlement possible.
Under the law, Uber and other ridesharing services must provide insurance coverage for crash victims. These policies vary by state, but generally, they offer up to a million dollars in range to victims for their injuries and losses.
However, it should be noted that Uber drivers are contract workers rather than company employees. This complicates and limits the liability of Uber and other companies if their drivers cause accidents. This is why it is essential to contact an experienced attorney. They have the financial resources, legal knowledge, and network of support staff and experts to build your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery.