Charleston Uber Accident Lawyer
Rideshare services like Uber have become enormously popular in Charleston and other cities throughout South Carolina. Individual drivers linked through an easy-to-access smartphone app make it quick and convenient for customers to get a ride at any time or place. On the flip side, however, if you are injured while riding in–or hit by–a rideshare vehicle, the process of seeking compensation is often far less convenient.
An experienced Charleston Uber accident lawyer can help you in sorting through the complex insurance and personal injury laws that govern such incidents. We can investigate your accident and help you determine who is legally responsible. And we can deal with the various insurance companies on your behalf in seeking a full and proper resolution of your claims.
Who Pays When an Uber Driver Hits Someone in Charleston?
When an Uber driver causes a car accident, Uber itself may be responsible for covering any damages sustained by the victims. More precisely, South Carolina law requires Uber to provide contingent or liability coverage for the accident. When such coverage applies–and how much it covers–depends primarily on the Uber driver’s status at the time of the accident.
Here is a brief explanation of how the law works in South Carolina:
- If an Uber driver is “off duty” and not even logged into the Uber driver app, then any accident is exclusively the financial responsibility of the driver. In other words, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy coverage applies.
- If an Uber driver is logged into the Uber app but has not yet accepted or picked up a passenger, Uber must provide a limited amount of liability coverage. Specifically, Uber’s insurance will cover up to $50,000 for injuries to one person, $100,000 for injuries to multiple people in a single accident, and $50,000 for property damage. Uber is also responsible for providing uninsured motorist coverage.
- If an Uber driver has accepted a request, is en route to pick a passenger up, or is actively transporting a passenger, Uber must provide third-party auto liability coverage of up to $1 million. Uber is also responsible for providing uninsured motorist coverage.
In addition to any insurance provided by Uber or the Uber driver, an injured victim’s own insurance coverage may apply to an accident. For example, your own uninsured motorist or MedPay coverage may provide certain benefits. And if someone other than the Uber driver caused the accident–i.e., a third-party driver–they can be sued and held legally responsible for your injuries.
Reach Out to Our Charleston Uber Accident Lawyers
The last thing you want to deal with following a car accident is sorting out legal responsibility between various parties and insurance companies. Our Charleston Uber accident lawyers can take on that task for you. If you have been injured while riding in an Uber–or you were hit by an Uber driver–it is in your best interest to seek out qualified legal advice from a lawyer who only has your financial interests at heart. Call the Stanley Law Group at 803-799-4700 or contact us online today to request a free consultation.
