Understanding Liability in Rideshare Accidents: Uber and Lyft

If you are involved in an accident while using a rideshare service, it is essential to take the following steps:

• Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by seeking immediate medical care, even if injuries appear minor.
• Report the Accident: Notify the police and ensure an official accident report is filed.
• Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
• Collect Information: Gather contact and insurance information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver and any witnesses.
• Report to Rideshare Company: Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app or customer support.
• Consult an Attorney: Contact an experienced rideshare accident lawyer to discuss your case and legal options.

Liability in rideshare accidents can be complicated, involving multiple parties and insurance policies. Key factors in determining liability include:

• Driver Status: The driver’s status at the time of the accident (e.g., actively transporting a passenger, en route to pick up a passenger, or logged into the app but without a ride request) affects which insurance policy applies.
• Rideshare Company Policies: Uber and Lyft provide varying levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status during the accident.
• Third-Party Liability: Other drivers, pedestrians, or entities (e.g., vehicle manufacturers, government agencies) may also share liability.

Uber and Lyft offer insurance coverage that varies based on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident:

• Logged Off: When the driver is not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance is the primary coverage.
• Logged In, Awaiting Ride Request: Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage during this period, typically $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
• En Route to Pick Up/Active Ride: Once a ride request is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability coverage, along with comprehensive and collision coverage if the driver has personal comprehensive and collision coverage.

Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time off work for recovery and medical appointments.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and psychological trauma.
• Property Damage: Compensation for repair or replacement of damaged property.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious negligence or misconduct, additional punitive damages may be awarded.