Using rideshare services like Uber and Lyft has become more prevalent, especially in Boston. On a typical day in Boston, over 95,000 Uber and Lyft rides are completed each day. With the increase in rideshare services and drivers on the road, it is to be expected that there will be an increase in accidents.
If you are injured while riding in an Uber, you may wonder, “who is liable for my injuries?” Typically, the driver will have an insurance policy through their company that will cover accident and injury costs. However, that may not always be the case. After sustaining a serious injury while using a rideshare service, it is important to contact an experienced attorney who can help you get the compensation you deserve. The personal injury lawyers at Colucci Colucci & Marcus, P.C. are prepared to handle your case.
Uber Accidents in Boston News
Recently, a man (Will Good) requested an Uber home from his shift at a Boston restaurant. On his way home, the driver caused an accident, which resulted in life-altering injuries to the passenger. Mr. Good sustained a neck injury in the accident that left him paralyzed. According to a recent Boston Globe article, Good is now suing Uber for $63 million for the damages sustained in the accident.
Will Good filed a complaint against Uber and the driver on January 25, 2022. In the complaint, Good alleged that Uber was negligent in their hiring of the driver because he had an “extensive, troublesome driving history.” The injuries that Good sustained occurred because of the driver’s reckless driving and excessive speed.
The cover letter of the complaint stated damages in the amounts of $1 million (documented medical expenses), $12 million (future medical costs), and $50 million (pain and suffering).
Liable Parties in an Uber Accident
In the above case, Good is able to sue both the company and the driver because the driver was actively working for Uber at the time of the accident and the entire time during the ride. Uber is responsible for its employees when they are actively using the application.
In the state of Massachusetts, drivers are responsible to carry auto policies with minimum bodily injury liability coverage. In addition to this, Uber drivers are subjected to a different set of liability insurance requirements.
The amount of liability coverage a driver must carry when connected with a rider is, at a minimum, $1,000,000 to cover any injuries or damage sustained in the occurrence of an accident. In some cases, this amount is not high enough to cover all injury expenses, when this is the case, a rider can bring a lawsuit for additional damages against the company and driver, and in some cases, a third party who was involved in the accident.
Reach out to Colucci Colucci & Marcus, P.C. to Get Started on Your Claim
If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident, contact our Boston personal injury attorneys at Colucci Colucci & Marcus, P.C. Call us at 617-698-6000 or send us an email for a free introductory consultation with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers.
