Portland Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Representing Injured Riders in Portland, OR

The rideshare industry has exploded in popularity in recent years, with both Uber and Lyft offering ridesharing services in hundreds of cities all over the United States, including Portland, OR. In fact, ridesharing services have become so popular that they have essentially become a part of everyday life for many Americans, with millions of people using rideshare services on a regular basis.

However, despite the popularity of ridesharing services, there are still many people who are unaware of the risks associated with using these services. In particular, many rideshare users are unaware of the risks associated with rideshare accidents and how these accidents might be covered by insurance.

At Pacific Cascade Legal, we believe that every rideshare user deserves to know the truth about their rideshare insurance coverage and how it might apply to their rideshare accident claim. Our attorneys possess a comprehensive understanding of the specific laws and regulations governing rideshare services in Oregon. Whether you were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, the driver of a rideshare vehicle, or another motorist involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle, our expertise ensures that we can provide you with accurate and up-to-date legal advice tailored to your unique situation.

To learn more about your rideshare insurance coverage and how it might apply to your rideshare accident claim, call our team at (503) 573-5566.

Rideshare Laws in Oregon

Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) is the official term used to describe ridesharing companies like Uber, Lyft, and others that connect drivers using their personal vehicles with passengers through a mobile application. Oregon has specific regulations in place for TNCs, which cover various aspects of their operations, including driver requirements, insurance, safety standards, and licensing.

Rideshare drivers in Oregon are must be at least 25 years old, have a valid driver's license, pass a driver screening, and required to undergo background checks, including criminal history and driving records. Certain convictions, such as for violent crimes or serious traffic violations, could disqualify individuals from becoming rideshare drivers.

Rideshare Accident Liability

In order to recover damages in a rideshare accident claim, you must prove that the rideshare driver is liable for your injuries and losses. In most cases, this means proving that the rideshare driver was negligent, either because they were driving carelessly or because they failed to follow their rideshare company's safety rules.

In a rideshare accident claim, you will likely be able to prove that the rideshare driver was negligent if you can prove that the rideshare driver:

• Did not follow their rideshare company's safety rules
• Was driving carelessly or recklessly
• Was under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Did not follow traffic laws
• Did not yield to you
• Did not stop at a crosswalk
• Did not stop at a stop sign or traffic light

In most cases, you will be able to prove that the rideshare driver was negligent if you can prove that they were driving carelessly or recklessly. Note that you will only be able to prove that the rideshare driver was driving carelessly or recklessly if you can prove that they were driving in a way that was careless or reckless compared to how a reasonable person would drive under the same circumstances.

For example, if you were hit by a rideshare driver who was driving while talking on their cell phone, you will likely be able to prove that the rideshare driver was driving carelessly because a reasonable person would not drive while talking on their cell phone.

However, if you were hit by a rideshare driver who was driving in the middle of the road because they were looking at their GPS, you will likely not be able to prove that the rideshare driver was driving carelessly because a reasonable person would also look at their GPS while driving.

Rideshare Insurance Coverage

Rideshare companies are required to provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but in many cases, these policies do not provide enough coverage for rideshare accident claims. In some cases, rideshare drivers do not have any insurance coverage at all.

Rideshare insurance coverage from Uber and Lyft typically varies based on the driver's activity status within the app. Here's an overview of the coverage in different scenarios:

• Not Logged into the App (App Off): During this phase, the driver is using their vehicle for personal use, and the rideshare company's insurance coverage usually doesn't apply. The driver's personal auto insurance policy would be the primary coverage in case of an accident or any other incidents during this time.
• Logged into the App and Waiting for Ride Requests: At this stage, the driver is actively waiting for ride requests but hasn't accepted any rides yet. Both Uber and Lyft typically offer contingent liability coverage during this period, which means that if the driver's personal auto insurance doesn't cover an incident, the rideshare company's insurance may provide limited liability coverage. However, there may be gaps in coverage, and it's essential for drivers to check with their insurance provider.
• Accepted a Ride or Driving a Passenger to Their Destination: Once the driver has accepted a ride request or has a passenger in the vehicle, the rideshare company's commercial insurance coverage is typically active. Uber and Lyft provide a higher level of coverage during this phase, including liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage to third parties. Additionally, they may offer coverage for the driver's vehicle for physical damage if the driver carries comprehensive and collision coverage on their personal policy (subject to a deductible).

Rideshare companies are required to provide $1,000,000 in liability coverage for their drivers. However, this coverage is contingent on the driver's personal insurance coverage. In other words, this coverage only applies if the driver already has personal insurance coverage.

Additionally, rideshare companies are required to provide $50,000 in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for their drivers. This coverage is designed to protect the rideshare driver from the liability of other drivers who do not have insurance or do not have enough insurance to cover their liability.

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you've been involved in a rideshare accident in Portland, OR, navigating the legal aftermath can be overwhelming. At Pacific Cascade Legal, we understand the complexities and challenges that arise in rideshare accident cases, and we are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Contact Pacific Cascade Legal today at (503) 573-5566 for a free, no-obligation consultation.