Are ride sharing drivers in Charleston eligible for workers compensation?

Charleston, SC – Driving for a ride sharing company has become either a part time or full time job for many Americans in South Carolina and other states. However, if these people are ever injured while driving, they may face challenges trying to get financial assistance to pay for their injuries. This is especially true in relation to the workers compensation system. 

Anyone who has been involved in a workplace accident should get legal advice from their attorney before making any decisions. 

Info related to ride sharing

According to Statista.com, approximately 36% of all Americans use ride sharing services each year [1]. The major ride sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have billions of dollars in revenue each year due to how common and ubiquitous their services have become. However, only about one percent of ride sharing drivers say that the benefits offered to them are the most important thing to them as drivers, where pay is their main concern. 

Benefits for independent contractors versus employees

As a general rule, ride sharing companies have argued that their drivers are independent contractors and not employees, therefore they do not qualify for workers compensation benefits. Their argument is that drivers are not required to maintain a minimum number of hours each week, and they are free to accept as much or as little work as needed. In most states, workers comp benefits only apply to full time employees.  

Are drivers covered?

Courts in South Carolina and other states have generally sided with the ride sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft in recent years. This means that a driver who has been involved in an accident should report it to their insurance provider, notify the ridesharing company, and then speak with an attorney. It is still generally possible to get money through the insurance process or a personal injury lawsuit. 

The major ride sharing companies are also starting to provide additional coverage for drivers who pay into a system that is similar to workers compensation, but it is maintained and managed internally. Drivers who feel they are at risk of being involved in a collision should look into this coverage and decide if it is worth the additional cost, look into other insurance options.

Work injury lawyers in South Carolina

The Clekis Law Firm handles workers compensation cases for clients in the Charleston area. Their attorneys can provide more details about how to receive benefits and other related issues. 

USAttorneys.com is a service that works with people who need to find lawyers in their area. Anyone who wants a referral to a local licensed attorney can call 800-672-3103 to get started.

Firm contact info:

The Clekis Law Firm

171 Church St., Charleston SC, 29401

[email protected]

843-900-0000

clekis.com

Sources:

1. https://www.statista.com/topics/4610/ridesharing-services-in-the-us/#dossierKeyfigures