Uber and Lyft drivers are available throughout Las Vegas because it’s often the most convenient and expedient way to get around such a large town. Las Vegas is a top vacation destination and host to some of the country’s largest trade shows, such as Consumer Electronics Show, so many vacationers and businesses travelers have used the ride sharing services.
Whether it’s under the glowing neon lights on the strip or in residential neighborhoods, Uber and Lyft driver accidents happen around the metro area.
Rideshare companies are different than cab companies
Many Uber or Lyft drivers strive to pick up as many fares and log as many miles as possible, so they can make the most amount of money. As a result, drivers may push speed limits, skirt traffic laws and run traffic lights. This can lead to accidents, and Uber and Lyft accidents have been on the rise. You may think if you have been involved in a rideshare accident that it’s the best to pursue legal action against the Uber and Lyft corporations. But it is not the case because Uber and Lyft shield themselves from large-scale liabilities.
Drivers are independent contractors and not employees, so the company protects itself from certain liability exposure. In addition, rideshare companies do not own vehicles, garages or other assets of a typical cab company. However, both Uber and Lyft provide a $1 million liability policy to cover passengers involved in accident.
Nevada insurance requirements
Nevada law requires Uber Lyft and other ride share companies to carry a minimum amount of insurance to protect injured passengers in the event of an accident. The law states that a driver must carry liability coverage of $50,000 per passenger, $100,000 per accident and at least $25,000 in property insurance.
Driver liability
As an independent contractor, Uber and Lyft drivers are personally held responsible or liable in the event of an accident. A passenger, motorist or pedestrian injured in an Uber or Lyft accident needs to treat it similar to a common traffic accident. In order to prove liability, you need to determine who was at fault for the accident. If involved in an accident, you need get insurance information, write notes and take photos of the accident scene to document your case. Insurance companies representing drivers, passengers, and others often reach a suitable settlement with the Uber and Lyft drivers’ insurance companies.