Uber, Lyft and other ridesharing companies have changed the way that many people get around in Denver. Instead of taking a bus, calling a cab or riding their bicycle, many people now find it cheaper and more time-efficient to request a rideshare through their phone.
But, unlike bus drivers and cab drivers, individuals who sign up to drive for Uber and Lyft do not have to have any special driving experience or obtain a special license. If you have a standard driver’s license and you can pass a basic background test, you can start offering rides to passengers. While this means that many people have the opportunity to earn money by giving rides (and the cost of providing these rides can remain relatively low), it also means that accidents involving Uber and Lyft vehicles are prevalent in major cities like Denver.
If You Were Injured in a Collision With an Uber or Lyft Vehicle…
If you were injured in a collision with an Uber or Lyft vehicle, the most important thing for you to know is that someone is required to have insurance to cover your injury-related losses. Since Uber and Lyft drivers are considered “independent contractors” (as opposed to “employees”), these companies are not necessarily liable for accidents resulting from drivers’ mistakes. However, both companies carry insurance (and Colorado law requires all drivers to be insured); and, if the driver who hit you is uninsured or underinsured, depending upon the circumstances involved, you may be able to pursue a claim under Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance policy.
However, insurance claims involving ridesharing accidents can be challenging. The driver’s insurance company may attempt to deny coverage on the basis of the insured vehicle being used “for hire,” and Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance company may try to distance itself from your claim entirely. As a result, it will be important for you to hire experienced legal representation and take all of the necessary steps to protect your claim for financial recovery.
If You Were Injured While Riding with an Uber or Lyft Driver…
If you were injured while riding with an Uber or Lyft driver, the same general considerations apply. If your driver was at fault, either the driver’s or the ridesharing company’s insurance policy should cover your losses. If the other driver was at fault, then you should have a claim against his or her insurer.
In any case, in order to protect your rights, you should call 911 from the scene of the accident and seek medical attention as soon as possible. You should also discuss your rights with an attorney, and you should know what steps you need to take as well as what mistakes you need to avoid.
Contact Us About Your Uber or Lyft Accident in Denver
Were you injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Denver? If so, we encourage you to give us a call. To speak with one of our experienced auto accident lawyers in confidence, call 303-333-8000 or request a free consultation online today.
