Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have completely changed how we get around. With just a few taps on your phone, you can have a driver ready to take you to your destination in no time. But like any mode of transportation, accidents happen. When they do, determining who pays for medical bills and other damages can be more complicated than it seems.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, whether as a passenger, driver, or pedestrian, you’re probably wondering where to turn for help. Who’s responsible for your medical bills? Is the driver at fault? Does the rideshare company’s insurance cover your expenses? And how can a personal injury attorney assist you through this confusing process?
What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different?
When you’re involved in a typical car accident, the at-fault driver (or, more specifically, their insurance company) is usually responsible for covering medical bills and property damage. But rideshare accidents are more complex because multiple parties could share responsibility, and rideshare companies have their own insurance policies that come into play.
Liability in a Rideshare Accident
Determining fault is the first step in figuring out who pays the bills. Here are the key players who might hold some responsibility in a rideshare-related accident:
1. The Rideshare Driver
If the rideshare driver’s negligence caused the crash (e.g., texting while driving, speeding, or failing to yield), they may be held partially or fully responsible.
2. Another Driver
Often, a third-party driver causes the accident. For instance, another motorist might have run a red light, resulting in a collision with the rideshare vehicle.
3. The Rideshare Company
Companies like Uber and Lyft have insurance coverage to protect riders, but whether their policy applies depends on the circumstances of the accident.
4. Vehicle Owners or Other Parties
If a vehicle’s poor maintenance, faulty brakes, or another issue played a role, certain other parties (like the vehicle owner or mechanic) could also share some blame.
Because so many factors are involved, answering the critical question, “Who pays my bills?” in a rideshare case isn’t clear-cut. That’s where understanding rideshare company insurance policies becomes critical.
How Rideshare Insurance Coverage Works
Both Uber and Lyft have established insurance policies to ensure protection in the event of an accident, but coverage varies depending on the rideshare driver’s activity at the time of the crash. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Period 0
If the rideshare driver is not logged into the rideshare app or is driving for personal use, they’re covered only by their personal auto insurance.
Period 1
Once the app is on, but no ride has been accepted yet, the rideshare company’s limited insurance policy provides coverage in addition to the driver’s personal insurance. This usually includes up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
Period 2 and 3
More extensive insurance coverage kicks in once the driver accepts a ride or has a passenger on board. During this time, Uber or Lyft’s $1 million liability coverage typically applies for accidents involving injuries or property damage. Additionally, underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage may apply if another driver without sufficient insurance caused the accident.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re a passenger injured during a rideshare trip or a pedestrian hit by a rideshare vehicle, the rideshare company’s insurance will likely cover your injuries. However, insurance claims may get more complicated if the accident occurred before the driver picked up a passenger or while they were off the clock.
This is where having a personal injury attorney can make an enormous difference.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
Navigating the claims process after a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. Insurance adjusters may deny your claim, offer a low settlement, or point fingers at another party to avoid paying. An experienced attorney can take the pressure off while fighting to secure the compensation you need. Here’s how they can help:
1. Untangling Liability
Determining fault in a rideshare accident isn’t always straightforward. A personal injury attorney will carefully review the details, gather evidence like accident reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage, and identify who should be held accountable.
2. Dealing with Insurance Companies
Rideshare accident claims often involve multiple insurance providers, and they aren’t always eager to pay. Attorneys understand how these companies operate and will negotiate on your behalf to prevent you from being shortchanged.
3. Calculating Your Full Damages
Beyond immediate medical bills, rideshare accidents can result in lost wages, long-term care needs, pain and suffering, and other costs. Your attorney can ensure all economic and non-economic damages are factored into your claim.
4. Handling Complex Cases with Multiple Claimants
Rideshare accidents often involve multiple injured parties. If you’re part of a group making claims, a lawyer can help protect your rights.
5. Filing a Lawsuit, If Necessary
If negotiations don’t result in a fair settlement, an attorney can take your case to court, putting together a convincing argument to fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Should You Do After a Rideshare Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare crash, here’s what you can do to protect yourself:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health is the priority. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries show symptoms later. Don’t delay seeing a doctor.
2. Document Everything
Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the rideshare vehicle. Also, write down the rideshare driver’s details, the name of the app they work for, and contact information for any witnesses.
3. Report the Accident
Inform the rideshare company about the crash through the app. Be sure to also file a police report, as it will serve as crucial evidence.
4. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
The sooner you consult a lawyer, the more effectively they can help you. They’ll make sure evidence is preserved, deadlines are met, and you’re not pressured into accepting less than you deserve.
Dallas Rideshare Accident Attorneys
At J. Alexander Law Firm, our team of experienced attorneys has a deep understanding of rideshare laws and regulations, and we are dedicated to protecting your rights. Contact us today at (214) 206-3264 to get started.