Who Is at Fault in a Car Accident With an Uber or Lyft Driver?

Rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber are a convenient option when you need a ride. However, when those drivers get into an accident, it can make the insurance claim process more complicated. Rideshare companies treat drivers as independent contractors, so they’re not liable for the driver’s negligence.

Regardless, get help if you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident whether you are a rideshare driver, passenger, or were in another car. A car accident claim can help you get financial compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.

Auto insurance requirements are different in every state. This page provides an overview, but you should talk to a local car accident lawyer for information about your accident claim.

What To Do After a Lyft or Uber Accident?

After an auto accident, you should seek medical attention for your injuries. You may also have to report the accident to law enforcement, especially if it involves injuries. Later, you can ask for a copy of the police report.

Once you take care of medical emergencies, exchange contact information with the other driver. This may include the car insurance information, license plate, name, and phone number of the driver. Take photos or videos of the accident scene and any property damage.

Report the accident to your insurance company to start the insurance claim process. If someone from the other driver’s insurance company calls, you can refer them to your attorney before you say something that hurts your claim.

Who Should I Sue in a Lyft or Uber Accident?

If you are injured in a car accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, you can file a personal injury lawsuit to make sure your injuries are covered. Lawsuits with rideshare drivers are complicated because no one wants to take financial responsibility. The rideshare services may not want to pay for damages. The insurance company may try to avoid liability because the driver didn’t disclose they were working as a rideshare driver.

Your attorney may want to name all possible defendants when filing a lawsuit. This can include:

• The rideshare driver
• Rideshare company
• Driver’s personal insurance
• Other insurance companies

If both drivers were partially at fault, liability can get complicated. Depending on the state, shared liability could mean your damages for medical bills, lost wages, etc., are reduced, or you get nothing for your serious injuries.

What Insurance Applies in a Lyft or Uber Accident?

The most complicated part of a Lyft or Uber accident is insurance coverage. Even rideshare drivers are often confused about what insurance policy applies. It also depends on state law. Some states have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) requirements that pay for a driver’s injuries regardless of fault. In other states, liability is based on fault, and the at-fault driver has to pay for damages.

Generally, Lyft and Uber have three different levels of coverage:

• When the rideshare app is off
• When the rideshare app is on and waiting for a ride request
• When the app is on and the driver is going to pick up the passenger until the end of the ride

When the app is off, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy applies. When the app is on and waiting for a ride, if the driver’s policy does not provide it, then Lyft will provide third-party liability coverage of a certain level.

When the driver is on the way to get a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle, Lyft has $1 million in third-party liability coverage. The rideshares may also provide uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage and other insurance required by state law.

What Happens if a Lyft Driver Causes an Accident?

If you were in a motor vehicle accident with a rideshare vehicle, the negligent driver should be accountable for injuries. If the rideshare driver was at fault and they had a passenger or were on the way to pick up a rider, you may get compensation from the driver’s own insurance and the rideshare policy coverage.

Are Passengers Protected in a Rideshare Accident?

Lyft and Uber have third-party liability insurance for rideshare passengers injured in an accident caused by the rideshare driver. If another driver caused the accident, the passenger can get compensation from the at-fault driver.

But it doesn’t mean it will be easy for passengers to get compensation after an accident. A car accident attorney can take the case to court if the rideshare company’s insurance gives you any pushback for your injuries.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?

Accidents involving Lyft or Uber drivers can be complicated. Three or more insurance companies may be involved, and it’s difficult to get compensation from any of them. One of the main benefits of a personal injury attorney is that they can deal with insurance companies and rideshare companies so you don’t have to.

Your attorney can also negotiate a fair settlement to pay for your damages. If the insurance companies don’t want to pay you what you deserve, your lawyer can take them to court. Most car accident attorneys offer a free consultation, so contact an experienced car accident lawyer to understand your legal options.