Richmond Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers
Millions of people every day choose the convenience of rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to get where they are going, but they don’t always arrive at their destination as intended. Car accidents happen with Uber and Lyft drivers just as they do with other drivers, and as more and more people get on the road to work for Uber and Lyft, more and more will be involved in crashes at some point. Car accidents are chaotic and confusing situations at any time, but when a rideshare company is factored into the equation, the circumstances become even more complex. The personal injury attorneys at Latham & Martin are well-versed in the laws and regulations surrounding car accident claims in Virginia, including those involving transportation network companies. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a rideshare accident, call our office to discuss your case with a skilled and dedicated Richmond Uber & Lyft accident lawyer.
Virginia Insurance Requirements for Rideshare Companies
Virginia has specific insurance regulations for rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to ensure sufficient protection for drivers, passengers, and third parties. Notably, Uber and Lyft must maintain a comprehensive policy that provides:
- $1,000,000 in liability insurance for any accidents during the time a driver is engaged in a ride.
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage of $1,000,000 for incidents where the at-fault party doesn’t have adequate insurance.
The insurance coverage available to an accident victim varies depending on the status of the driver at the time of the crash. Virginia insurance requirements for rideshare drivers breaks down like this:
- Off-Duty (App Off): When the app is off, the driver’s personal insurance coverage applies. Minimum limits for liability insurance in Virginia are $30,000 for bodily injury per person and $60,000 per accident, plus $20,000 for property damage. Starting in 2025, the minimum requirements are $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. Drivers can lawfully drive without insurance in Virginia by paying the applicable fee to the DMV.
- Waiting for a Ride Request (App On, No Passenger): If the driver has the app on and is available to accept a ride, a minimum of $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage applies.
- Engaged in a Ride (Passenger Onboard or En Route): A minimum of $1,000,000 in liability coverage is required.
How an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
At Latham & Martin, our legal professionals are adept at unraveling the complexities of rideshare accidents to ensure maximum compensation. With an understanding of Virginia law, we:
- Analyze the accident’s circumstances.
- Determine the appropriate tier of insurance.
- Negotiate with insurance companies.
- Represent clients through legal proceedings if necessary.
For Passengers in an Uber or Lyft Hurt in a Crash
Passengers injured in an Uber or Lyft accident have the right to pursue a claim depending on who was at fault. If the rideshare driver was at fault, the million-dollar tier of insurance coverage should apply to the passenger. If the other driver was responsible for the crash, the accident victim might have to pursue their claim against that driver’s insurance company. Latham & Martin’s experienced personal injury attorneys can help identify the responsible parties and seek appropriate compensation.
For Uber and Lyft Drivers Hurt in a Crash
If you’re a rideshare driver hurt due to another driver’s negligence, you have specific rights under the law. Uber and Lyft’s policies can provide assistance as well, including collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Latham & Martin can provide legal guidance on pursuing a claim, dealing with insurance complexities, and ensuring fair compensation.
Contact Latham & Martin Today
Rideshare accidents present unique legal challenges to accident victims seeking a full and fair amount of compensation from the proper responsible party or parties. Understanding Virginia’s insurance requirements and liability tiers is vital for those involved in a crash. The Richmond personal injury attorneys at Latham & Martin possess the expertise necessary to navigate these complexities and ensure the best possible outcomes. Whether you are a passenger, driver, or third party hurt in a pedestrian, bicycle, or auto accident with a rideshare driver, our team is ready to assist with legal support tailored to your specific situation. Call now for a free consultation.
