Shareholder
Partner
Attorney
Learn About Our Mass Tort Practice
Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa is here to help
Meet Our Legal Team
Free Case Consultation
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the way we travel, offering convenience, affordability, and flexibility. Yet, with the increasing number of rideshare vehicles on the road, accidents have become more common. If you find yourself involved in a rideshare accident, knowing what steps to take is crucial.
Whether you’re a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian involved in a rideshare incident, the aftermath can be confusing and overwhelming. Who is responsible? How do you file an insurance claim? Do you need a lawyer? This comprehensive guide covers all aspects, from immediate safety measures to understanding insurance policies, filing claims, and knowing your legal rights.
The first few moments after an accident are critical. Your actions can impact your safety, legal rights, and insurance claims. Here are the essential steps to take right after a rideshare accident.
Your safety and the safety of others is the top priority. In the chaos of an accident, it’s easy to panic, but staying calm and composed is essential. Here's what to do:
Collecting information and evidence at the scene is vital for building a strong insurance claim or legal case. Here’s what you should do:
Rideshare companies require accidents to be reported through their respective apps. Prompt reporting helps initiate the insurance claim process and ensures proper documentation.
Rideshare accidents involve complex insurance issues because multiple policies may apply. Knowing how Uber and Lyft’s insurance coverage works can help you navigate claims more effectively.
Uber’s insurance coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
Driver Not Logged In The driver’s personal insurance applies. Uber’s policy does not cover accidents if the driver is offline.
Driver Logged In, Waiting for a Ride Request Uber provides liability coverage with $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. This coverage applies when the driver is available but not actively transporting a passenger.
Driver En Route or During a Trip Uber offers $1 million in third-party liability coverage. This includes uninsured or underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage, covering injuries caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers. It also includes contingent comprehensive and collision coverage, which applies if the driver has personal collision coverage, with a $2,500 deductible.
Lyft’s insurance policy is similar to Uber’s, with coverage tiers based on driver activity:
Understanding when rideshare insurance applies is essential for filing a claim. Coverage depends on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident:
If the driver was waiting for a ride request, limited liability coverage applies. If the driver was en route to pick up a passenger or during a ride, the $1 million third-party liability coverage is in effect. If the driver was offline, the driver’s personal insurance is responsible.
Navigating the insurance claim process after a rideshare accident can be challenging. Here’s what you need to know:
Determining Liability and Insurance Coverage Liability can be complicated, especially if multiple parties are involved. Coverage depends on the driver’s status (waiting for a ride request, en route, or transporting a passenger). Understanding the rideshare company’s insurance policies is crucial for determining which coverage applies.
Dealing with Multiple Insurance Companies You may need to communicate with several insurers, including the rideshare driver’s personal insurance, the rideshare company’s insurance, and third-party insurers if other vehicles are involved. Keep detailed records of all correspondence.
Handling Claim Denials or Delays Claims may be delayed or denied due to disputes over liability or insufficient evidence. If your claim is denied, review the denial letter, provide additional documentation, and consider consulting a lawyer if necessary. If the process is delayed, follow up regularly with the insurance adjuster.
Who pays for medical bills after a rideshare accident? Responsibility for medical bills after a rideshare accident depends on who is at fault. If the rideshare driver is responsible, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy may cover medical expenses. If another driver is at fault, their insurance is typically responsible for the costs. Additionally, if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply, providing financial protection to injured passengers.
Do I need insurance if injured as a passenger? No, passengers are generally covered under the rideshare company’s insurance policy during an active ride. Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage, including uninsured/underinsured motorist protection for passengers involved in an accident. However, having your own health insurance can help cover immediate medical expenses until the rideshare insurance claim is processed.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft after an accident? Yes, you can sue Uber or Lyft in certain circumstances, but it can be complicated due to the independent contractor status of drivers. Typically, Uber and Lyft are not directly liable for driver negligence because drivers are classified as independent contractors. However, you may be able to sue the rideshare company if the accident was caused by negligence related to company policies, such as inadequate background checks, vehicle maintenance issues, or other safety-related failures.
How do I report an accident to uber or lyft? To report an accident to Uber, open the Uber app, navigate to “Your Trips,” select the relevant ride, and click on “Help” followed by “Report a Safety Issue.” Provide detailed information about the accident, including the time, location, and description of the incident. For Lyft, open the Lyft app, go to “Ride History,” select the ride, and click on “Get Help.” Follow the prompts to report the accident and include relevant details, such as photos and witness information.
How long does it take to settle a rideshare accident claim? The duration for settling a rideshare accident claim can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months or even years, depending on the complexity of the case. Factors influencing the timeline include the severity of injuries, clarity of liability, cooperation from insurance companies, and whether the case involves litigation. In general, straightforward claims with clear liability and complete documentation are resolved faster than contested claims requiring legal intervention.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and legal options. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate complex insurance claims and legal procedures. Contact Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa today for a free consultation and get the help you need to secure the compensation you deserve.
Get A Free Case Consultation
"*" indicates required fields
Δ