Do Rideshare Drivers Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

The Advantages of Uninsured Motorist Coverage for Rideshare Drivers

Rideshare car accidents present a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to determining liability and seeking compensation for injuries. When an individual is involved in a rideshare accident, either as a passenger or as the injured party hit by an Uber or Lyft vehicle, navigating the complex web of insurance coverage becomes crucial for obtaining adequate compensation, particularly when dealing with uninsured or underinsured motorists (UM coverage). This article will discuss why you need uninsured motorist coverage if you are a Lyft and Uber driver.

Rideshare Accidents are Complex

In the context of rideshare accidents, where a passenger or someone hit by a rideshare vehicle is not at fault, the liability landscape can be multifaceted. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft typically provide substantial insurance coverage for their drivers, both during rideshare activities and when the app is on but the driver is awaiting a passenger. However, if an accident occurs, and the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance coverage, the injured party may turn to the rideshare car's UM (uninsured/underinsured motorist) coverage.

What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage is a type of insurance that comes into play when the at-fault party either doesn't have insurance or doesn't carry enough insurance to cover the damages. In the context of rideshare accidents, this can be particularly crucial, as not all drivers on the road maintain adequate insurance limits.

For instance, if a rideshare passenger is injured due to the negligence of another driver who is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company's UM coverage can potentially fill the gap. This coverage can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages that may arise from the accident. It's important to note that the specific details of insurance coverage can vary between Uber and Lyft, and state regulations may also play a role in determining the extent of coverage.

Lawyers Understand the Complexities

Therefore, individuals involved in rideshare accidents should promptly consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can navigate the complexities of these cases. Rideshare car accidents introduce a layer of complexity to the already intricate world of personal injury law, so it’s best to work with an expert who has experience navigating these complexities. Utilizing the UM coverage of the rideshare vehicle becomes a critical avenue for seeking compensation when the at-fault party lacks adequate insurance.

As ridesharing continues to be a prevalent mode of transportation, understanding the nuances of insurance coverage in these situations is essential for ensuring that injured parties receive the compensation they rightfully deserve. Not only does it protect you and your vehicle in the event of an accident as the driver, it also protects your passengers even if they don’t know it, adding another layer of the trust that your passengers put into you during every trip.

Need a Car Accident Lawyer to Help with a Rideshare Accident?

In summary, everyone should have uninsured motorist coverage, but especially if you are an Uber or Lyft driver. While rideshare car accidents can be complex, experienced personal injury lawyers can tackle the intricacy of the incident and help protect you in court and win your case. Personal injury attorneys bring objectivity, expertise, and a keen ability to maximize your compensation, allowing you to focus on getting back on the road and picking up your next passenger.

Contact Lloyd H. Thomas Law for an experienced car accident attorney to help with your rideshare accident. We are located in Atlanta, Georgia and are here to help you navigate the complexities in the aftermath of a car accident.

Call us today at (404) 848-8898. 

Why You Need to Make Sure that You Have Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Georgia

The Importance of Having Uninsured Motorist Coverage on Your Insurance Policy

If you own and operate a vehicle, you are required to have car insurance. While this adds a monthly expense to your budget, it is well worth the freedoms that owning a vehicle can give to a driver. Not only does a registered and insured vehicle give the driver the freedom to drive, it also allows them to do so with peace of mind in the event of an accident. Unfortunately, we live in a very unpredictable world where anything can happen. An automobile accident could be caused by your own actions, the actions of another driver, either of your vehicles failing to operate properly, or even the weather conditions or conditions of the road itself. In fact, roughly 1.5 million car crashes involving a deer occur every year. Even something as simple as an animal walking across the road could cause a crash and make you thankful that you are insured.

But what if you get into an accident with an uninsured motorist? Some drivers are irresponsible, and choose to drive without having the necessary insurance coverage. Lloyd H. Thomas Law is a personal injury law firm that works with clients every day who have been the victims of car accidents. Today, we would like to discuss the importance of car insurance and particularly the importance of having uninsured motorist coverage in the state of Georgia.

What is Uninsured Motorist Insurance Coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage is part of your auto insurance that covers you if you are hit by a motorist who does not have insurance. You are not required by law to have uninsured motorist coverage in Georgia, however driving without it poses great risk to you. In the event that you were hit by an uninsured driver, you would have to pay for your vehicle damages and medical bills on your own and then take the other driver to court. Having this coverage will save you the time, money, and stress of having to pay for your damages on your own.

The Difference between Add-On and Reduced-By Coverage

When adding uninsured motorist coverage to your insurance policy, it is important to make this clear distinction. We strongly recommend that you choose “add-on” coverage instead of “reduced-by” coverage. What does this mean?

Add-on coverage allows you to add the amount of uninsured motorist insurance that you have to the other driver’s insurance.

Reduced-by coverage only pays for the difference between the amount that the other driver’s insurance policy pays and your uninsured motorist coverage.

Essentially, add-on coverage will allow you to have a much larger sum of money to compensate you for your damages and medical bills than reduced-by coverage. It is important to note, however, that insurance companies don’t often make it easy to make a claim and receive these funds. If you find yourself in a situation where you may need to make an uninsured motorist claim it is essential to find an experienced personal injury attorney to assist you.

Have You Been in a Car Accident? Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Accidents happen, and if you are not the one at fault then you deserve to be compensated fairly for your damages and injuries. Hire a personal injury lawyer to help you through the process and to help you get compensated. Call Lloyd H. Thomas Law at (404) 848-8898 or send him a message today. Lloyd H. Thomas is a personal injury attorney who will help you properly write your claim and settle your case. If you were the victim of a car accident, Lloyd has your back!