Full-time rideshare drivers are at risk of legal issues than other drivers, because of the long hours on the road. While providing great service in challenging situations like traffic, bad weather, and other unpredictable events, it’s important to remember what the legal risks are, so you can try to avoid them – and prepare yourself for them.
Here is some important legal advice that every rideshare driver should know.
Understand Your Insurance Coverage
When you drive for a rideshare company, you are considered an independent contractor. This means that you are not an employee of any company, and you are responsible for your own insurance. A rideshare company can provide you with some insurance coverage, but it’s important to understand the limits of this coverage to see if you need more.
For example, some basic insurance policies provided by app companies cover up to $1 million in liability for bodily injury or property damage, in the event of an accident. However, this coverage only applies when you are actively picking up or dropping off a passenger. If you are involved in an accident while you are driving between rides, your own personal insurance has to cover any costs. It’s important to read your insurance policies carefully and understand what is covered and what is not. You may also want to consider purchasing additional insurance coverage to protect yourself in case of an accident.
Be Aware Of the Law
The laws governing rideshare driving vary from state to state. It is important to be aware of the laws in the state where you are driving. For example, some states require rideshare drivers to have a commercial driver’s license, while others don’t. Some states have restrictions on where and when rideshare drivers can pick up and drop off passengers, where in other states, there are no restrictions.
Know Your Rights
As an independent driver, you have certain rights under the law. For example, you have the right to refuse a ride if you feel unsafe. You also have the right to request a background check on a passenger.
If you believe that your rights have been violated, you should contact a lawyer who has your back.
Document Everything
If you are involved in an accident while driving for a rideshare company, it is important to document everything. This includes taking photos of the damage to the vehicles, getting the names and contact information of the other drivers and passengers involved, and filing a police report.
You should also keep a copy of all communication with the rideshare company, including emails, text messages, and phone calls. This documentation will be helpful if you need to file a claim with your insurance company or take legal action.
Drive Safe
The most important legal advice for rideshare drivers is to drive safely. This means being aware of your surroundings, driving defensively, and following the law. It also means being aware of the risks of distracted driving.
By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from legal liability and stay safe while driving for a rideshare company.
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