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Who’s Liable In A Ridesharing Accident?

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A ridesharing accident is different from a typical car accident since liability isn’t always straightforward. Normally, an at-fault driver is responsible for resulting damages, but that can change if they were working at the time the accident occurs.

Who Can I File a Claim Against?

Both Uber and Lyft require drivers to have their own personal auto insurance policy and will only provide coverage themselves under certain conditions. Proving liability in these cases can be challenging since rideshare companies consider their driver’s independent contractors rather than employees. Because of the various factors that add complexity to rideshare claims, immediately contact a car accident lawyer who can help you determine liability and which party to file a claim against.

Uber Insurance Coverage

Uber provides coverage for their drivers, as follows:

  • Offline or the Uber App is Off: only the driver’s personal insurance will apply to the accident.

App is On, and the Driver is “Available” or Waiting for a Ride Request: Uber’s contingent liability coverage applies, but only to the losses sustained by others who were injured or had their property damaged. This includes:

  •  $50,000 in bodily injury per person
  •  $100,000 in bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 in property damage per accident

The Uber driver must access their personal policy for their own injuries or vehicle damage.

Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Until Passenger is Dropped Off: Uber’s commercial insurance coverage applies, which includes:

  • $1,000,000 per accident for property damage and bodily injury, and another $1 million if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury, limits will vary by state.

Contingent comprehensive and collision:

  • Up to the actual cash value of the car with a $2,500 deductible. (Effective 3/1/21)
  • Certain vehicles offered through the Vehicle Marketplace are subject to a $1,000 deductible.

Lyft Insurance Coverage

Lyft policies are similar to Uber, and they apply in the following situations:
Offline or Lyft App is Off: only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.App is On, Lyft Driver is Waiting for a Ride Request: the driver’s private insurance will apply unless their insurance company refuses to cover it. In that situation, Lyft’s policy will cover:

  • $50,000 per person for bodily injury
  • $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
  • $25,000 per accident for property damage.
  • Driver Has Accepted a Trip or Until Passenger is Dropped Off: Lyft’s $1 million policy will apply to the collision.

What If Another Driver Hits Your Uber or Lyft Car?

When another driver crashes into your Uber or a Lyft vehicle, the at-fault driver’s insurance will apply. If you are injured as a passenger, you can file a claim with the other driver’s auto insurance company to cover your medical bills and lost income.

What If You Are Driving and An Uber or Lyft Car Hits You?

If an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident, you may be entitled to compensation from both their personal auto insurance and the rideshare company. However, it will depend on if the driver was considered working at the time, and Uber or Lyft may be quick to deny responsibility in an injury claim.

Speak to a Qualified Attorney

If you have been injured in a Houston rideshare accident, contact the Milano Legal Group. We’ll help you decide the best course of action in your case. Call (713) 489-4270 for a free consultation today.

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