Ridesharing services like Lyft and Uber have quickly become popular for their convenience and affordability. With a quick tap on an app, passengers can get a ride almost anywhere, avoiding the hassle of parking, renting a car, or navigating unfamiliar routes. However, with this increased reliance on rideshares comes a new question: what should you do if you’re injured in an accident while using a rideshare service, whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver?
Injuries in rideshare accidents can lead to complex legal issues, especially regarding insurance coverage. Since rideshare drivers use personal vehicles and insurance policies can shift depending on the driver’s app status, determining who’s liable—and to what extent—can be tricky. Here, we’ll walk through the essential steps you should take if you’re involved in an Uber or Lyft accident to protect your health and legal rights.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After any accident, seeking prompt medical care is crucial, even if your injuries don’t seem severe at first. Injuries like concussions, whiplash, and soft tissue damage might not appear immediately but can develop into more serious health issues later.
Aside from ensuring your health, seeing a doctor after an accident creates a medical record documenting your injuries. This documentation becomes important evidence for any potential legal claim, proving the severity of the injuries and linking them directly to the accident. It’s helpful to attend all follow-up appointments and adhere to the recommended treatment plan as well, as these records collectively strengthen your case if you decide to pursue compensation.
Understand How Insurance Works in Rideshare Accidents
Insurance coverage in rideshare accidents is unique because of how the driver’s status impacts the availability of different policies. Here’s a breakdown of how this typically works:
- You’re a Passenger in an Uber or Lyft: If you’re injured as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you’re generally covered under Uber’s or Lyft’s liability insurance policy. Both companies provide up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage when drivers have passengers or are on their way to pick someone up.
- Your Car is Hit by a Lyft or Uber Driver: If an Uber or Lyft driver hits your vehicle while actively using the app, Uber or Lyft’s insurance will often cover the damages. However, if the driver wasn’t using the app at the time, they’ll rely on their personal insurance instead.
- Other Situations with Rideshare Liability: In scenarios where you’re a pedestrian, cyclist, or other third-party injured by a rideshare driver, the driver’s app status also affects coverage. If they’re “on the clock” with the app open but without a passenger, limited coverage from the rideshare company typically applies, supplemented by the driver’s insurance if necessary.
Understanding how these different scenarios impact insurance coverage is essential since it determines which policy will apply and what compensation might be available. Rideshare cases often require a skilled injury lawyer to evaluate these specifics and coordinate with insurance companies, helping you recover the full amount you’re owed.
How Sharing Insurance Coverage Works
In some situations, especially if you’re sharing a Lyft or Uber with others, multiple people might be injured in the accident. When multiple injured parties file claims, the available insurance coverage may be divided among everyone involved, which can complicate things quickly. Let’s say you’re sharing an Uber with friends, and the driver causes an accident. If the driver’s liability limit is $1 million, that amount may need to be shared between all passengers, and potentially with other injured parties involved.
Without an attorney, you risk not receiving adequate compensation because insurance companies may attempt to settle for less, especially when multiple parties are involved. A lawyer can help you negotiate and, if necessary, fight for a fair share of the available insurance coverage. They ensure you’re not overlooked and receive compensation that reflects the severity of your injuries.
The Importance of Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
In severe accidents, the at-fault driver’s insurance—whether it’s the Uber or Lyft policy or the driver’s personal policy—may not be enough to cover all medical expenses and damages. This is where uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can be incredibly beneficial.
UM/UIM coverage applies when the other party’s insurance is insufficient to cover the costs of your injuries. Many people overlook UM/UIM when selecting their own auto insurance, but having this coverage is valuable if you’re injured in a rideshare accident, as it fills in any financial gaps. Take a moment to review your own insurance policy to make sure you have UM/UIM coverage in place; it can make a significant difference in your ability to recover costs after a serious accident.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Uber or Lyft Accident Claims
Rideshare accident claims are often more complex than traditional car accidents due to the varying insurance policies, the app status of the driver, and the involvement of large companies like Uber and Lyft. Here’s why hiring a lawyer can be critical:
- Shifting Insurance Coverage: Understanding which insurance policy applies at each phase of the rideshare journey (driver availability, waiting for a request, or active ride) can be challenging. A lawyer ensures that the right insurance covers your injuries and that any attempt by insurers to reduce liability is properly addressed.
- Multiple Parties and Severe Injuries: With severe injuries or multiple claimants, insurance companies may resist offering full compensation. A rideshare accident lawyer fights for your rights and negotiates to maximize your compensation.
- Handling Insurance Companies: Insurers representing large companies like Uber and Lyft often aim to protect their bottom lines. Having legal representation means you have an advocate who can communicate with insurers on your behalf, ensuring your interests are prioritized.
Broussard Knoll Law Firm has handled complex Uber and Lyft cases, and we understand the intricacies of rideshare insurance policies. Our commitment is to fight for fair compensation for each client, navigating the legal process so you can focus on recovery.
FAQ About Lyft or Uber Accident
What happens if the Uber or Lyft driver wasn’t at fault for the accident?
If another driver caused the accident, their insurance would typically be responsible for covering injuries and damages. However, Uber or Lyft’s insurance may still apply if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage, allowing you to claim under the rideshare company’s UM/UIM policy.
What if the Lyft/Uber driver wasn’t on a call when the accident occurred?
If the driver wasn’t actively engaged in a ride or awaiting a ride request, their personal insurance is generally responsible for covering any accident-related damages. Rideshare coverage applies only when the driver is logged into the app and in “driver mode.”
How does my own uninsured motorist coverage work in a rideshare accident?
Your UM/UIM policy can help cover costs if the rideshare driver’s insurance is insufficient. It supplements the available insurance, providing additional coverage for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
Should I speak to the insurance company before consulting with an attorney?
It’s wise to consult an attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters. They may ask questions intended to reduce liability, and an attorney can guide you on what to say or handle communications on your behalf.
Protecting Your Rights After a Rideshare Accident
Accidents involving rideshare vehicles can be complicated due to shifting insurance coverage and multiple parties. Seeking legal advice ensures you’re equipped to handle these complexities, protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a Lyft or Uber accident, Broussard Knoll Law Firm is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation to review your case, understand your options, and begin your journey toward recovery.
