Baton Rouge Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Our Rideshare Accident Attorneys in Baton Rouge Can Help

Rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft, are revolutionizing the way people get around cities and towns all over the country. In many ways, these companies have made transportation more accessible to the general public by providing a low-cost alternative to traditional taxis and other ride-hailing services. Unfortunately, as with any new form of transportation, accidents are bound to happen.

When a car accident occurs in Baton Rouge involving an Uber or Lyft driver, the victim deserves the help of an experienced rideshare accident lawyer. At Beall & Thies, LLC, our attorneys are ready to provide the representation you need to move your case forward.

Call (225) 577-6223 or contact us online to get started with a free case evaluation of your case.

What is the Rideshare Law in Louisiana?

Louisiana has passed a rideshare law that is designed to protect rideshare drivers, passengers, and all other motorists on the road. Under this law, rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors and are therefore held to a different standard than traditional taxi drivers. The law provides that rideshare drivers are not considered employees of the rideshare company, and rideshare companies are not considered employers of the drivers. This means that rideshare drivers are not protected by the same laws that cover traditional taxi drivers and their employers.

In the state of Louisiana, rideshare drivers are required to go through a criminal background check, a motor vehicle record check, and a national sex offender database check. Rideshare companies are also required to maintain commercial liability insurance on all of their drivers at all times. If an accident occurs, the rideshare driver's personal insurance should cover the claim. However, if the rideshare driver's personal insurance company denies the claim, the rideshare company's commercial insurance should cover the claim.

Who is Liable if a Rideshare Driver Causes an Accident?

When a rideshare driver causes an accident, the victim is entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages. In most cases, the rideshare driver's personal insurance will cover the claim. However, if the driver's insurance denies the claim, the rideshare company's commercial insurance should cover the claim. In the state of Louisiana, rideshare companies are required to carry commercial insurance that covers all of their drivers at all times.

Generally, both Uber and Lyft provide liability insurance coverage to their drivers while they are logged into their respective apps and actively providing transportation services. In Louisiana, ridesharing companies are required by law to maintain certain insurance coverage for their drivers.

Here is a general overview of how Uber and Lyft's accident compensation policies typically work:

• Period 1: When the driver is logged out of the app or hasn't accepted a ride request, their personal auto insurance coverage applies.
• Period 2: When the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, but hasn't accepted a ride, both Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage. This coverage generally includes third-party liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage, but it may have certain limits and deductibles.
• Period 3: When the driver has accepted a ride request and is transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide primary liability coverage. This coverage typically includes higher liability limits for bodily injury and property damage.

In the event of an accident, if the driver is determined to be at fault, their personal auto insurance may be primary for any damages, subject to the terms and conditions of their policy. If the driver's personal insurance coverage is insufficient or doesn't apply, Uber and Lyft's insurance policies may provide additional coverage.

If you are involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, you should not assume that your claim will be denied. Our firm is prepared to help you file a claim against the rideshare company's commercial insurance. We can also represent you if you choose to file a claim against the driver's personal insurance.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Baton Rouge Rideshare Accident Attorneys

 At Beall & Thies, LLC, our attorneys can provide the representation you need to move your case forward. Our firm is familiar with the rideshare laws in Louisiana and is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.

Our attorneys are available to help you with your case. Call (225) 577-6223 or submit an online contact form today.