Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have transformed the way we get around, providing convenience and flexibility for millions of riders. However, with the increase in rideshare vehicles on the road, accidents involving Uber or Lyft drivers have also become more common. If you were in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, it’s important to understand your legal rights and the steps you should take to protect them.
In this detailed guide, we will explore what you should do if you’re involved in an accident with a rideshare driver, the legal process for filing a claim, and how to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
Immediate Steps to Take After an Accident with an Uber or Lyft Driver
The moments following a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to take certain steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights.
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety are the top priorities. Immediately after the accident:
- Move to a safe location if possible, away from traffic and further harm.
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance for any injuries. Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional as some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.
- Get medical attention on the scene, and make sure to document any injuries or symptoms you experience after the accident. Medical records will be crucial evidence when seeking compensation.
2. Report the Accident to Authorities
After ensuring everyone’s safety, you must report the accident to the police. The police will file an official accident report, which includes important details about the crash, such as who was involved, potential causes, and any traffic violations.
The police report will serve as essential documentation when filing an insurance claim or a legal lawsuit. Make sure you get the report number and the officer’s contact information.
3. Document the Accident Scene
As with any car accident, gathering evidence is key to building a strong case. If you are physically able, take the following steps to document the accident scene:
- Take photos and videos of the vehicles involved, any visible damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and the overall scene.
- Get contact information from the rideshare driver, any passengers, and witnesses. Be sure to note down the Uber or Lyft driver’s license plate number, driver’s license information, and insurance details.
- If possible, screenshot the rideshare app showing the details of the ride, such as the driver’s profile and the trip timeline.
4. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft
Both Uber and Lyft require their drivers to report accidents through their app. However, you should also file a report yourself. Contact the rideshare company directly to notify them of the accident. They will likely follow up with you regarding your experience and may initiate an investigation.
Keep in mind that both Uber and Lyft have insurance coverage for accidents involving their drivers, but it’s important to understand how this insurance applies based on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.
Understanding Insurance Coverage for Uber and Lyft Accidents
When it comes to rideshare accidents, the insurance coverage available to you can be complex. Uber and Lyft provide insurance for their drivers, but the coverage depends on the driver’s status when the accident occurred.
1. Driver Not Logged Into the App
If the Uber or Lyft driver is not logged into the app at the time of the accident, the driver’s personal auto insurance will apply. This is similar to any other car accident where the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for covering damages and injuries.
2. Driver Logged In but Waiting for a Ride Request
When a rideshare driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, both Uber and Lyft provide limited liability insurance. This typically includes:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
However, if your damages exceed these limits, you may need to file a claim against the driver’s personal insurance as well.
3. Driver En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or Transporting a Passenger
If the rideshare driver has accepted a ride request or is currently transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. This higher coverage applies to both passengers and other parties involved in the accident, such as pedestrians or other drivers.
Understanding how the rideshare company’s insurance applies to your accident is critical in determining the best course of action for seeking compensation.
Filing a Claim After an Uber or Lyft Accident
Once you’ve documented the accident and reported it to both the authorities and the rideshare company, the next step is filing an insurance claim to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
1. Determining Fault in a Rideshare Accident
To successfully recover compensation, you must first establish who was at fault for the accident. Fault in rideshare accidents can involve multiple parties, including:
- The Uber or Lyft driver
- Another driver involved in the crash
- The rideshare company (in cases of vehicle maintenance failures)
Your lawyer will investigate the details of the accident, review the police report, interview witnesses, and examine any available video footage to determine who was responsible.
2. Filing a Claim Against the Driver’s Insurance or Rideshare Company
Depending on the specifics of the accident, you may file a claim against either:
- The rideshare driver’s personal insurance if they were not on duty at the time of the accident
- The rideshare company’s insurance if the driver was logged into the app or carrying passengers
Working with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer will ensure that all possible insurance claims are explored, and they will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
3. What to Do If the Insurance Company Denies Your Claim
Unfortunately, insurance companies are often reluctant to pay out large settlements, and your claim may be denied or undervalued. In such cases, it’s crucial to have a lawyer by your side to fight for your rights. Your attorney can appeal the denial, provide additional evidence, or file a personal injury lawsuit if necessary.
Compensation You Can Recover in an Uber or Lyft Accident
As an accident victim, you are entitled to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Here are the types of compensation you may be able to recover:
1. Medical Expenses
Medical bills are often the most significant expense following an accident. You can claim compensation for:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospitalization
- Surgeries
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Medications
- Future medical care
2. Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you may recover compensation for lost wages. Additionally, if your injuries limit your ability to earn income in the future, you can seek compensation for loss of earning capacity.
3. Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering compensation accounts for the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident. These non-economic damages can be significant, especially in cases of severe or long-term injuries.
4. Property Damage
You can also recover compensation for any damage to your property, such as your vehicle, phone, or personal belongings, that were damaged in the accident.
5. Punitive Damages
In some cases, if the rideshare driver’s behavior was particularly reckless or negligent, the court may award punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and discourage similar behavior in the future.
Legal Aspects to Consider in Uber and Lyft Accidents
Rideshare accidents can involve various legal complexities. Here are a few legal aspects your rideshare accident lawyer will address when building your case:
1. Comparative Negligence
In some accidents, both parties may share responsibility. Under comparative negligence laws, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. Your lawyer will work to minimize any fault assigned to you to maximize your recovery.
2. Statute of Limitations
Every state has a statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits. This legal deadline is typically two to three years from the date of the accident, but it can vary depending on your location. If you fail to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations, you may lose your right to seek compensation. Your lawyer will ensure that all legal filings are made within the appropriate time frame.
3. Dealing with Multiple Insurance Companies
Rideshare accidents can involve multiple insurance companies, including the driver’s personal insurer, the rideshare company’s insurer, and your own insurance company. Navigating these claims can be confusing, but your lawyer will handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance companies on your behalf.
Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, hiring an experienced rideshare accident lawyer is essential to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how a lawyer can help:
1. Investigating the Accident
A lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to determine fault, gather evidence, and identify all possible sources of compensation. This includes reviewing police reports, speaking to witnesses, and working with accident reconstruction experts if necessary.
2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims for less than their full value. Your lawyer will handle all negotiations with the insurance company and ensure that you receive a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
3. Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit and represent you in court. They will build a strong case on your behalf and fight for your right to full compensation.
Conclusion: Protect Your Rights After an Accident with an Uber or Lyft Driver
Accidents involving rideshare drivers can be legally complex, but knowing what steps to take can protect your rights and help you recover compensation for your injuries and damages. After ensuring your safety and documenting the accident, it’s crucial to report the incident to Uber or Lyft and seek legal advice from a rideshare accident lawyer.
By working with an experienced lawyer, you can navigate the insurance claims process, establish fault, and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to. Don’t wait to take action—consult with a lawyer today to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
English 
Español de México