Millions of us hit the road daily in California, whether behind the wheel or as passengers. The convenience of hiring an Uber or Lyft driver to take you from place to place is growing exponentially. But what happens when your Uber or Lyft ride takes a turn for the worse and you’re involved in an accident? These situations can be confusing, especially when figuring out who’s on the hook for damages. Buckle up because today, we’re diving into the world of Uber and Lyft accidents in California. We’ll untangle the complexities of liability and insurance issues and help you understand how to get the compensation you deserve.
Who Pays When the Ride Goes Wrong?
After an unexpected collision as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, who is responsible for the medical bills, car repairs, and other damages? Your Uber and Lyft accident lawyer in San Luis Obispo knows the key to getting compensation hinges on a critical factor: the Uber and Lyft driver’s classification.
In California, these companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This distinction significantly impacts liability and a victim’s potential for compensation after a car accident. Traditionally, employers are liable for their employee’s negligence under the theory of respondeat superior. However, since Uber and Lyft drivers are technically independent contractors, these companies may attempt to distance themselves from the accident. This may significantly impact your path to compensation as Uber and Lyft are billion-dollar companies, while a driver’s personal car insurance policy may not cover your damage