Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become integral to our daily lives, offering a convenient, flexible transportation alternative. However, with the rise of rideshare usage comes the increased risk of being involved in a rideshare accident.
When accidents happen, the questions of fault and liability can get complicated quickly. You might wonder, “Is Uber liable for accidents like this?” or “Should I be dealing with the driver’s insurance?” That confusion, mixed with the stress of being involved in a crash, can leave you feeling lost.
This is where the guidance of an experienced Uber & Lyft accident lawyer becomes invaluable.
Our team at David R. Price, Jr., P.A. understands the unique nature of these cases and can help you move through this legal maze.
If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, having someone on your side who knows the ins and outs of rideshare accidents can make all the difference.
What Is a Rideshare Accident and How Does It Differ From Regular Car Accidents?
A rideshare accident happens when a vehicle operated by a rideshare driver (Uber or Lyft) gets involved in a crash. While it might seem similar to any other car accident, some key differences can make things more complicated for accidents involving rideshare drivers.
For starters, when a person gets into a regular car accident, it’s usually pretty clear who’s responsible: the at-fault driver. But rideshare accidents involve a few extra layers. Not only is the rideshare driver potentially at fault, but Uber or Lyft could also be involved depending on whether the driver was actively working at the time.
This adds whole new twists to liability. Was the driver on their way to pick up a passenger? Were they already transporting someone? Or were they just waiting for their next fare? The answer to these questions can determine whether the rideshare company’s insurance is responsible for compensated injured victims, or if liability falls back onto the driver’s insurance company instead.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps immediately can impact your ability to seek compensation later on. Here’s what you should do.
1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional.
2. Report the Accident: Notify both the police and the rideshare company about the accident. This helps document the event officially.
3. Collect Evidence: Take pictures of the accident scene, damage to the vehicles, and any visible injuries. If possible, gather the contact information of the driver and any witnesses.
4. Get Legal Advice: Before speaking with insurance companies, consult with an Uber & Lyft accident lawyer who can guide you through the claims process and protect your rights.
Determining Fault in a Rideshare Accident: Is Uber Liable for Accidents?
In rideshare accidents, determining fault can be complex due to the various parties involved.
Responsibility may lie with the rideshare driver, another driver, or even Uber or Lyft themselves.
The following factors are considered when determining fault:
App Off: Driver Not Logged Into the Rideshare App
When the driver is not logged into the rideshare app, they are considered off-duty. In this situation, any accidents that occur are solely covered by the driver’s auto insurance, as the rideshare company’s insurance policies do not apply.
App On, No Ride Request: Driver Logged in, Waiting for a Ride
When the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, the rideshare company provides contingent liability coverage. This means that the rideshare company’s liability coverage will provide primary liability coverage in the event that the driver’s auto insurance excludes coverage if a driver is logged into the app.
This contingent coverage must satisfy the state’s minimum insurance requirement for transportation network companies, which is:
- $50,000 for property damage
- $50,000 per person for death or bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for death or bodily injury
En Route to Pick Up a Passenger: Driver Accepted a Ride Request
Once a ride request is accepted and the driver is on the way to pick up a passenger, the rideshare company’s primary liability coverage kicks in. This coverage includes at least $1 million for bodily injury and property damage per incident.
During the Ride: Passenger in the Vehicle
When a passenger is in the vehicle, the rideshare company’s primary insurance remains active.
This comprehensive coverage provides up to $1 million for both death and bodily injury and property damage, and also includes protection against accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers.
Post-Ride: Passenger Dropped Off, Driver Available
After the passenger has been dropped off and the driver is available for new ride requests, the contingent liability coverage resumes. This coverage remains in effect until the driver either accepts a new ride or logs out of the app.
How Our Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers Can Help
If you’ve been involved in an accident involving Uber or Lyft, the path to proper compensation can feel complex. That’s where our Uber & Lyft accident lawyers will advocate and guide you through this complex journey. Here is how we can help with your case:
1. Understanding Your Story
Every accident carries a unique story, and understanding yours is our first step. We’ll listen to what happened, how it affected your life, and what your concerns are moving forward.
2. Investigating Thoroughly
We dig deep to uncover all the facts. This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reconstructing the accident if needed. We aim to build a strong foundation for your case, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
3. Navigating Insurance Claims
We’ll handle the insurance companies for you. They often try to minimize claims, but we won’t let them take advantage of you. Our job is to fight for the full compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
4. Offering Legal Representation in Court
While many rideshare accident claims are settled out of court, some do proceed to trial. If your case goes to court, you can rest assured that our skilled lawyers will be by your side, ready to fight for your rights.
Contact Our Rideshare Accident Lawyer
When you have been in a rideshare accident, it can feel like you’re moving through a maze of uncertainty, especially when you’re unsure about who is responsible and where to turn for help.
This is where having experienced legal support becomes invaluable. At David R. Price, Jr., P.A., we understand the personal impact of being involved in a rideshare accident. We are here to help, and we treat every client with the respect and empathy they deserve.
Contact our rideshare accident lawyers at 864-271-2636 for a free consultation.