Rideshare accidents, such as those involving Uber or Lyft, introduce complexities beyond typical car accidents. If you’ve suffered injuries, determining the responsible party is crucial for compensation. The liability depends on the rideshare driver’s status during the incident. If off-duty or not using the app, the driver’s insurance is applicable. When actively transporting a passenger or having accepted a ride, Uber’s third-party liability insurance, with coverage up to $1 million, comes into play.
Both Uber and Lyft acknowledge three distinct driving periods during which accident coverage is available:
- Period 1: The rideshare driver has the app turned on and is awaiting a ride request.
- Period 2: The rideshare driver has accepted a ride request but has not yet picked up the passenger.
- Period 3: The rideshare driver is currently transporting a passenger.
If injured in a rideshare accident, you may be eligible for compensation under the company’s insurance. Rideshare firms often label drivers as “independent contractors,” complicating liability. If the company disputes liability, file a claim with the driver’s insurance. Yet, private policies may not cover commercial use, potentially requiring a lawsuit against the rideshare driver for compensation.
To determine which entity is legally responsible for compensating you, we strongly recommend consulting with our experienced rideshare accident attorney in Houston to discuss the particulars of your case.
