In the bustling streets of Massachusetts, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular mode of transportation. However, with the increased presence of these vehicles, the chances of being involved in an accident have also risen. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being hit by an Uber or Lyft, it's crucial to understand your rights and the steps you need to take to protect yourself.

Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the no-fault car insurance system is in place, which means your own insurance company covers your lost wages and medical expenses after an accident, no matter who caused it. However, when it comes to accidents involving rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, the situation can become complicated due to the involvement of several insurance policies. However, in the case of rideshare accidents, things can get more complicated due to the multiple insurance policies involved.

Insurance Coverage in Rideshare Accidents

When you're in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, the insurance coverage available depends on what the driver's status was during the time of the accident:

• Offline or App Off: If the driver's app is off, their personal insurance is the only coverage in effect.
• App On, No Passenger: If the driver's app is on but they haven't accepted a ride yet, both Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage.
• En Route to Passenger or During Trip: When the driver has accepted a ride or is in the process of transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide a liability coverage policy of up to $1 million.

Steps to Take After Being Hit by an Uber or Lyft

1. Ensure Safety: Check if anyone is hurt and call 911 if necessary.
2. Collect Information: Swap insurance and contact information with the driver. Take note of their license plate, the make and model of their vehicle, and their rideshare status (app on or off).
3. Document the Scene: Record videos and take pictures of the accident, the damaged vehicles, and any visible injuries.
4. Report the Accident: Call the police and file a report. Also, report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it's important to have a medical professional examine you, as some injuries might not be immediately noticeable.
6. Contact an Attorney: Meet with a personal injury attorney experienced in rideshare accidents to understand your rights and options.

Seeking Compensation

In Massachusetts, if your medical costs surpass $2,000 or you sustain serious injuries, you have the option to move beyond the no-fault system and make a claim against the driver who caused the collision. In the case of a rideshare accident, you may be able to seek compensation from the driver's personal insurance, the rideshare company's insurance, or both, depending on the circumstances.

Potential Challenges

Accidents involving rideshare services come with their own set of complexities, including figuring out the driver's status when the accident occurred and navigating through claims with various insurance companies. Additionally, rideshare companies might try to avoid responsibility by saying that their drivers are independent contractors, not employees.

Tips for Protecting Your Rights

• Report the Accident Promptly: Both Uber and Lyft have specific timeframes for reporting accidents. Failing to report in a timely manner could affect your claim.
• Be Wary of Quick Settlement Offers: Insurance companies might attempt to quickly settle for an amount less than what you're entitled to. It's advisable to speak with an attorney before agreeing to any offers.
• Keep Detailed Records: Maintain documentation of all expenses, medical treatments, and communications related to the accident.
• Consider Legal Representation: An attorney can navigate the complexities of rideshare accidents, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your best interests.

Conclusion

Being hit by an Uber or Lyft in Massachusetts can be a complex and stressful experience. Understanding the insurance implications and knowing the steps to take will help protect your rights and make sure that you receive the compensation you deserve. If you find yourself in this situation, speaking with a skilled personal injury attorney can make all the difference in navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident.

Injured? The Office of Brandon J. Broderick, Personal Injury Lawyers, Can Help

If the unfortunate happens and you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t go at it alone. An experienced lawyer can advocate for your best interest and pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can count on us to work tirelessly for your quality of life. Our long track record of success has helped people like you move forward after sustaining an injury caused by another’s negligence. 
Contact us now for a free legal review.