Connecticut residents have plenty of options for ride-sharing companies. However, it’s important to know your options if you’re injured while in a ride-sharing vehicle.
What is a ride-sharing company’s obligation if an injury occurs?
If a person is injured in a ride-sharing accident, the ride-sharing company could be liable for their damages. Ride-sharing companies are required to carry insurance in the event of an accident that’s caused by their drivers. Although many ride-sharing drivers are considered independent contractors, there are instances when the company’s insurance policy would kick in to cover the damages incurred from an accident.
Whose insurance covers your damages?
Depending on the situation, the ride-sharing company’s insurance policy may or may not cover your damages if you’re injured while in a ride-sharing vehicle. If the driver’s own auto insurance policy is insufficient to cover the costs of your injuries, the company’s coverage then kicks in to pick up the remainder. This only applies if the ride-sharing driver is at fault for the car accident.
If the ride-sharing driver is not at fault and the accident was caused by the negligence or reckless of another driver, you would have to file a personal injury claim against that reckless driver directly or with their auto insurance.
Unfortunately, in some instances, the at-fault driver might not have insurance or might be underinsured. If this is the case, you may be able to recover compensation from the ride-sharing company’s insurance policy through its uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. However, this is only possible if the at-fault driver is responsible for a hit-and-run accident or if their insurance is insufficient to cover the cost of your damages.
In some cases, you might even have the option of filing a lawsuit against the ride-sharing company to recover damages. It’s important to explore all options if you’re seeking full compensation.