Ridesharing has become a convenient way to get around, but accidents involving Uber or Lyft can leave both passengers and other drivers confused about who is responsible for injuries. If you were in a collision with a rideshare vehicle, understanding your options is essential for protecting your rights and getting the help you need.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t wait—contact us online or call (855) 465-4622 now for a confidential consultation. Our team can guide you through your next steps.
Understanding Liability in Rideshare Accidents
Determining who is liable in an accident involving Uber or Lyft can be complicated. Liability depends on several factors, including whether the driver was logged into the app, who caused the crash, and insurance coverage.
Who May Be Responsible
- The rideshare driver: If the driver was on a ride with a passenger or logged into the app looking for fares, their personal or rideshare company insurance may cover injuries.
- Other drivers: If another motorist caused the accident, their insurance may be responsible for compensating victims.
- Rideshare companies: In some cases, Uber or Lyft may share liability, especially if their policies or procedures contributed to the crash.
- Vehicle owners: If the driver was using a vehicle they don’t own, the owner’s insurance may come into play.
How Insurance Works in Rideshare Crashes
Insurance coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:
- Driver offline: Only the driver’s personal insurance is usually active.
- Driver logged in but no passenger: Uber or Lyft provide limited liability coverage for accidents.
- Passenger in the vehicle: Commercial rideshare insurance is typically available to cover injuries to passengers or others involved in the crash.
Understanding these distinctions is important because insurance companies may try to minimize payouts or argue about fault.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in a rideshare collision, follow these steps to protect your rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Your health comes first, and medical records are key to documenting injuries.
- Document the scene. Take photos of vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Collect information. Gather contact and insurance information from all drivers involved, including the rideshare driver.
- Report the accident. Contact the police and file an official report.
- Contact an attorney. A knowledgeable legal team can help you navigate insurance claims and protect your rights.
Our team at Horn Wright, LLP can assist with each of these steps, ensuring that your case is handled thoroughly.
Evidence That Helps Your Case
Proving fault in a rideshare accident often requires clear evidence:
- Eyewitness statements
- Dashcam or surveillance footage
- Police and accident reports
- Medical records showing injuries and treatments
Having a legal team familiar with rideshare cases can help gather and organize this evidence efficiently.
How Horn Wright, LLP Can Help
Accidents involving Uber or Lyft can be confusing, especially when insurance coverage and liability are unclear. Learn more about rideshare accident claims and how we can assist you. Our attorneys serve clients across New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, providing clear guidance and support during this challenging time.
If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t navigate the process alone. Contact Horn Wright, LLP today at (855) 465-4622 or online to discuss your case confidentially.