Did you or a loved one suffer injuries in a rideshare or driverless vehicle accident? These types of accidents involve unique challenges when it comes to liability and insurance coverage. An experienced injury lawyer can explain your rights, identify the responsible parties, and handle the claims process while you focus on your recovery.
Liability in Rideshare Accident Cases
Multiple parties can be liable in rideshare accident cases. For instance, a rideshare driver could bear responsibility if they acted carelessly or broke traffic laws. However, the rideshare company’s insurance might still cover part of the claim, especially if the driver caused the accident while on a trip. Liability can also extend to other drivers involved or even the rideshare company in specific situations. However, rideshare companies enjoy limited liability in accident cases because they classify drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This limited liability structure means accident victims must often pursue compensation from multiple sources.
Who Is Liable in a Driverless Vehicle Crash?
Determining liability after a driverless vehicle crash presents unique challenges, especially as autonomous technology evolves. While manufacturers often claim their systems are safer than human drivers, recent investigations suggest these systems are not without risks. For example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently opened a safety probe into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology following several crashes, including a fatal pedestrian incident. Liability in such cases can fall on the vehicle manufacturer if the technology fails, but other parties, like software developers, could also bear responsibility depending on the specific defects involved.
Insurance Complications with Rideshare and Driverless Accidents
Insurance coverage can be confusing after rideshare and driverless car accidents. For rideshare drivers, coverage changes based on their app status. Personal insurance usually applies if the app is off, while rideshare insurance kicks in if they’re transporting or picking up a rider. In driverless car accidents, the manufacturer’s insurance or the vehicle owner’s policy could apply, depending on fault and state laws. Many insurance policies contain gaps or exclusions specific to rideshare and autonomous vehicles, so legal representation is beneficial for identifying coverage options and handling negotiations.
What to Do After a Rideshare or Driverless Vehicle Accident
If you suffer injuries in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle or driverless car, you can take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Prioritize your health by getting medical care, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Take photos or videos of the crash scene, visible injuries, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
- Collect names, phone numbers, and insurance details from all drivers involved.
- Keep track of your medical treatments, costs, and any missed work due to the injury.
- Notify your insurance provider about the accident to discuss coverage and necessary steps.
- Consult a lawyer who can explain your rights and negotiate with insurance companies.
- Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries on social media while your claim is pending.
How a Lawyer Can Assist with Rideshare and Driverless Vehicle Claims
A lawyer can help you explore your options and guide you through the process of seeking fair compensation after a rideshare or driverless vehicle accident. At Oliver Law Office, we’re ready to help you take the next steps in your recovery. Call us today at (614) 220-9100 to discuss your situation and identify potential sources of compensation in a free case review.
