How can an accident victim in Tennessee determine if they can sue a ride sharing company after their collision?

Nashville, TN – The convenience of being able to request a ride instantly from anywhere through a phone application has made ride sharing very popular. However, the major companies that provide ride sharing services also have issues with drivers who are insufficiently screened or trained, and many of them have caused accidents. There are a number of complex regulations and issues that determine whether a person who was utilizing a ride sharing service can sue the company after the accident.  

Issues with independent contractors

Ride sharing companies have consistently tried to classify their workers as independent contractors for a number of reasons. This includes less costs because the drivers cannot receive paid time off or benefits, as well as less liability if the company can simply say that the driver does not actually work for them. While most employers are strictly liable for the actions of their employers who are engaged in their normal job duties, this analysis can become much more complex if the person working is an independent contractor. 

The victim’s situation when the accident happened

In most cases, the person needs to be hit in their car by a ride sharing driver, or a passenger who was actively being transported to their destination if they want to try to sue the ride sharing company. Pedestrians who are hit by these drivers will also generally need to prove through evidence and employment records that the driver was actually working when the accident happened if they want to sue the employer as well. 

What is it important to sue the company that the driver works for?

Auto insurance is the main way that a victim’s losses are paid, as most drivers cannot personally afford to pay thousands of dollars for medical bills and vehicle repairs. In the case of ride sharing companies, they often have very large insurance policies that can help pay for losses related to accidents. It is often much more beneficial to have the possibility of a large payout from an insurance company rather than taking a chance on whether the individual driver with their personal insurance will be able to pay out damages. Establishing liability of the ride sharing company often becomes an important part of a lawsuit against their drivers for this reason. 

More information about lawsuits against ride sharing companies

George Fusner is an experienced personal injury lawyer who deals with all kinds of car accident cases in the Nashville area. Anyone who needs help after their motor vehicle collision can contact him to receive advice about how to proceed with their case and receive the most compensation allowed by law. 

Firm contact info:

The Law Office of George R. Fusner

7104 Peach Court, Brentwood TN 37027

615-251-0005

gfusnerlaw.com