Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their convenience and reliability. But like any other cars on the road, rideshare vehicles can get into accidents. Passengers and others should make themselves aware of the legal remedies available if injured in a collision. This may include recovery of damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other losses.

Who may be liable for damages after an accident involving a rideshare vehicle depends on the specific facts of the accident, including the causes. These are among the possible defendants:

• The rideshare driver — The driver may be liable if they were negligent or reckless in causing the accident. Common examples of driver negligence include distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence.

• The rideshare company — Uber or Lyft may be liable if the driver was acting within the scope of employment at the time of the accident. This hinges on whether the driver was logged into the app and available for hire, or actively transporting a passenger.

• Other drivers — Any other drivers involved in the accident may be liable if they were partially or wholly at fault. For instance, if another driver ran a red light and collided with the rideshare vehicle, that driver could be held responsible.

An important issue in rideshare accident cases is which party’s insurance coverage applies and to what extent. Even though drivers are independent contractors, Uber and Lyft carry insurance for them. However, the amount of coverage and the specific conditions under which coverage applies can vary, depending upon which period of activity the vehicle is in at the time of the accident. These periods are as follows:

1. Logged in, awaiting ride request — The driver is logged into the rideshare app but has not accepted a ride request. In this period, Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage for any accident that is the fault of the driver — up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 total liability per accident.

2. En route to pick up — The driver has accepted a trip and is on the way to the pick-up location. In this period, the liability coverage limit is $1 million.

3. Passenger in car — The customer is in the car. Here, liability coverage of up to $1 million applies, plus limited coverage for damage to the driver's car.

When the driver isn’t logged into the rideshare app, no company coverage is provided, but the driver’s personal auto insurance might apply. Uninsured motorist coverage may be available if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.

You should consult with an experienced rideshare accident attorney to discuss your legal rights and options if you’ve been hurt in an accident, whether as a passenger, as a driver or passenger in another vehicle or as a pedestrian. 

Hope & Causey, P.C. in Conroe, Texas represents victims of rideshare accidents throughout Montgomery County, San Antonio, Houston and the surrounding areas. For a free initial consultation, call 936-441-4673 or contact us online today.