If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver in Louisville, you may be dealing with mounting medical bills that leave you wondering if no-fault insurance coverage will be adequate for them or what to do if personal injury protection (PIP) benefits fall short. That’s where an experienced Louisville rideshare accident lawyer can help. At our personal injury law firm, we guide rideshare accident victims through the insurance claims process—and we’re here for you too.
What Is a Rideshare Company Under Kentucky Law?
Kentucky law KRS 281.010(52) defines a Transportation Network Company (TNC) as a business that uses apps or digital platforms—like Uber and Lyft. Rideshare services connect passengers with drivers for prearranged rides.
How Do Rideshare Insurance Policies Work?
Rideshare liability insurance covers drivers and passengers during accidents according to the driver’s status. There are three phases:
- Phase 1: The driver is logged into the rideshare app but hasn’t accepted a ride request. Limited liability coverage applies (e.g., $50,000 per person, $100,000 total).
- Phase 2: Driver is en route to pick up passengers. Coverage increases to up to $1 million.
- Phase 3: Passengers are in the car. The same $1 million coverage applies.
Do I Need a Lawyer in the Kentucky No-Fault System?
If you’ve been seriously injured in an Uber and Lyft accident in Kentucky, seek medical attention. Then, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney with knowledge of no-fault insurance who can help determine if you have a valid rideshare accident claim.
An experienced rideshare accident attorney can handle the entire legal process. They will investigate the accident scene, gather evidence to determine liability, and take your case to trial if necessary.
Types of Compensation for Ridesharing Crash Injuries in Louisville
What Is Kentucky’s No-Fault Law for Motor Vehicle Accidents?
Kentucky’s no-fault law is the Motor Vehicle Reparations Act (KRS 304.39):
- It mandates PIP coverage for most vehicles, excluding motorcycles.
- PIP provides up to $10,000 for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs regardless of fault.
- It allows the right to pursue a car accident lawsuit against an at-fault driver when injuries meet serious injury thresholds.
What Are Serious Injuries in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, the “serious injury” threshold allows you to step outside the no-fault system and sue an at-fault driver. You meet this threshold if your injuries result in any of the following:
- Medical expenses exceeding $1,000
- A bone fracture
- A permanent injury, causing permanent impairment of a body function
- Permanent disfigurement
- Any accident resulting in death
If I’m a Rideshare Passenger in an Accident in Kentucky, Whose PIP Covers Me?
In Kentucky, PIP benefits are generally tied to the vehicle you are riding in—not necessarily your own policy first.
- Rideshare vehicle’s policy:
- Primary source: PIP is typically paid by the insurer of the vehicle you are occupying at the time of the accident.
- The Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance, PIP (provided by the driver or the company), is usually the first to pay for a passenger’s claim.
- Your own personal auto policy:
- Secondary source: if the rideshare vehicle is uninsured, or its PIP coverage is exhausted, you then turn to your own personal auto insurance policy.
- Kentucky Assigned Claims Plan: if no other PIP coverage is available (e.g., neither the vehicle nor you have insurance), you can apply for benefits through this plan.
What Financial Compensation Is Available for Seriously Injured Rideshare Accident Victims?
Compensation beyond the victim’s own insurance company’s no-fault benefits includes medical costs exceeding $10,000, future care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and non-economic damages like loss of enjoyment of life.
How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Accident Case in Louisville, KY?
Under Kentucky’s Motor Vehicle Reparations Act, accident victims generally have two years to file a personal injury claim for a ridesharing accident resulting in serious injuries. Your personal injury accident attorney in Louisville will ensure you meet the deadline.
Our Louisville Rideshare Accident Attorneys Can Help
If you or someone you care about was injured in a traffic accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, and it was caused by negligence, you may have a valid personal injury case. An Uber or Lyft accident attorney from our law firm can provide legal guidance.
Contact our personal injury law firm today for a free consultation with an experienced Uber or Lyft accident lawyer. We can review your Uber or Lyft accident case and explain your options to recover fair compensation. You pay no attorney fees unless we win your case.
(312) 223-1700