With the rise of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft, getting from point A to point B has become more convenient than ever before. However, accidents do happen, and when they do, it’s important to know your rights as a passenger or driver in a rideshare vehicle. This article will take a closer look at Kentucky’s laws regarding rideshare injury claims and compensation.
Table of Contents
Understanding Rideshare Services
Before diving into the specifics of Kentucky’s laws, it’s important to understand how rideshare services work. These services are essentially transportation network companies that connect passengers with drivers via mobile apps. Passengers use the app to request a ride, and drivers use the same app to accept the request and pick up the passenger.
One of the unique aspects of rideshare services is that drivers are not technically considered employees of the company. Instead, they are considered independent contractors. This distinction can be important when it comes to legal claims involving accidents.
Insurance Requirements for Rideshare Services in Kentucky
In Kentucky, rideshare companies are required to carry insurance that covers their drivers and passengers. However, the specifics of the insurance coverage can vary depending on the circumstances of the accident.
When the Driver is Not Logged into the App
If a rideshare driver is not logged into the app and is driving their personal vehicle, their personal insurance policy will apply in the event of an accident. This is because the driver is not technically working for the rideshare company at that time.
When the Driver is Logged into the App but Has Not Accepted a Ride Request
If a rideshare driver is logged into the app and waiting for a passenger request, the company’s insurance policy will provide coverage for any accidents that occur during that time. However, the coverage is typically limited and may not be sufficient to cover all damages.
When the Driver is Logged into the App and Has Accepted a Ride Request
Once a rideshare driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger, the company’s insurance policy provides more comprehensive coverage. This coverage will typically cover damages to the driver’s vehicle, injuries to the passenger, and third-party liability in the event that the driver causes an accident.
Filing an Injury Claim After a Rideshare Accident in Kentucky
If you are injured in a rideshare accident in Kentucky, there are a few steps you should take to protect your legal rights and pursue compensation for your injuries.
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do after any accident is seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor to ensure there are no underlying issues that could become more serious later on. Additionally, having documentation of your injuries can be important when filing a legal claim.
Report the Accident
You should report the accident to both the rideshare company and the police. The company will have its own protocol for reporting accidents, so be sure to follow their instructions. Additionally, having a police report can be helpful when pursuing compensation.
Consult an Experienced Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Finally, you should consult an experienced rideshare accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you navigate the complex legal process, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Recoverable Damages in Kentucky Rideshare Accident Cases
If you are injured in a rideshare accident in Kentucky, you may be eligible for compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Future medical expenses
- Future lost wages
The amount of compensation you may be able to recover will depend on the specifics of your case, including the severity of your injuries and the extent of the damages.
Conclusion
Rideshare services have made transportation more convenient than ever before, but accidents can and do happen. If you are injured in a rideshare accident in Kentucky, it’s important to understand your legal rights and take the necessary steps to protect them. By seeking medical attention, reporting the accident, and consulting an experienced rideshare accident lawyer, you can pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.