As ridesharing apps become increasingly popular, accidents involving ridesharing drivers are becoming more prevalent. Accidents involving ride sharing vehicles are similar to other car accidents in that they typically rely on the same theories of liability and carry the same burden of proof. They differ, however, in that the amount of insurance coverage available to compensate the injured party for their losses depends on whether the vehicle was engaged in a trip at the time of the accident. If you suffered harm in an accident with a ridesharing vehicle, you should meet with an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney to discuss your potential claims.
Responsibility for Harm Caused by Rideshare Accidents
Although people that drive for ridesharing companies essentially transport others for a living, they generally do not undergo any special training. Instead, people can work as drivers for ridesharing companies as long as they, possess a good driving record, pass a criminal background check, and meet the requirements with regard to vehicle status including; insurance, age, and possessing a valid driver’s license. Like all motorists, though, people who drive on behalf of ridesharing companies have to abide by the California Vehicle Code and must operate their vehicles in a responsible and safe manner.
Although ridesharing drivers work for ridesharing companies, in most cases, they are not considered employees of the companies; rather, they operate as independent contractors. As such, in most cases in which a driver for a ridesharing company causes a collision, the ridesharing company will not be held directly or vicariously liable for any damages that arise out of the crash.
Proving Liability for a Rideshare Accident
Cases arising out of rideshare collisions are like other car crash cases, in that; generally, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the driver that caused the accident was negligent in order to establish liability. In other words, they must show that the driver owed the plaintiff a duty, the driver breached the duty, and the breach caused the accident. They must also prove they sustained measurable harm because of the accident. The plaintiff’s burden of proof is the same regardless of whether they were injured while riding in a ridesharing car or another vehicle when the accident occurred.
Talk to a Dedicated Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney
Ridesharing apps offer people a convenient way to travel without worrying about driving or its associated costs, but ridesharing drivers, unfortunately, are not immune from involvement in collisions. If you were hurt in an accident caused by a driver for a ridesharing company, it is smart to talk to an attorney about your possible claims. At Los Angeles City Law, our dedicated car accident attorneys are adept at handling cases arising out of rideshare accidents, and if you hire us, we will work tirelessly to provide you with a strong chance of achieving a successful outcome. We regularly represent people in car accident cases in Los Angeles as well as in other cities in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. You can reach us through our form online or at (424) 317-9781 to set up a confidential and free consultation.
