Rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, have revolutionized transportation. However, when accidents occur, victims often discover that filing a lawsuit after an Uber or Lyft car accident is far more complicated than a typical car accident claim.
The multiple layers of insurance coverage, questions about driver classification, and corporate policies designed to minimize liability create unique challenges. These factors require experienced legal guidance to secure the compensation you deserve effectively. The Philadelphia car accident attorneys at Geary Law can support your Uber or Lyft case, so you’ll receive the compensation you are owed.
Key Takeaways involving Uber or Lyft Car Accident Lawsuits
- Uber and Lyft provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. This includes whether the app was off, or on, but waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger.
- Determining liability in rideshare accidents can involve multiple parties. These include the rideshare driver, other drivers, the rideshare company, and even vehicle manufacturers if equipment failure contributed to the crash.
- Rideshare companies often classify drivers as independent contractors to avoid liability. However, passengers injured due to driver negligence can still pursue claims against the substantial insurance policies these companies maintain
- You typically have a limited time (often two years) to file an injury lawsuit after an accident. It is essential to consult with a rideshare accident attorney promptly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
- Contact an experienced rideshare accident lawyer at Geary Law immediately after an Uber or Lyft crash to navigate the complex insurance issues and maximize your compensation.
The Cost of Ridesharing
Studies and research reveal that ridesharing has increased traffic fatalities by 3%, with costs rising from $5.33 billion to $13.24 billion annually for traffic accidents.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage
The most confusing aspect of Uber and Lyft accidents is determining which insurance policy applies to the incident. Both companies provide coverage that varies based on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident.
App Off (Period 0): When the rideshare app is not active, the driver’s insurance is applicable. Most individual policies exclude coverage for commercial operation. This leaves injured parties with limited options if the driver is underinsured.
App On, Waiting for Ride Request (Period 1): When the driver has the app on but hasn’t accepted a ride request, Uber and Lyft offer liability insurance with specific limits. This is typically $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. This coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance denies the claim.
En Route to Pickup or Transporting Passenger (Periods 2-3): Once a driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide substantial coverage. This includes at least $1 million in liability insurance, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This is the most robust coverage.
Understanding which period applies to your accident is critical. It determines the available insurance coverage and influences settlement values.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Multiple parties can be liable in rideshare accidents, and identifying them is necessary for full compensation. These defendants include parties such as the rideshare driver (for negligence), other drivers (if they caused the accident), Uber or Lyft (in cases of negligent driver approval*, applicable insurance periods, or app malfunctions), vehicle manufacturers (for defects), and third parties like maintenance providers, local governments, or bars.
*The National Driver Register (NDR) features the Problem Driver Pointer System (PDPS), used for researching problem drivers.
Types of Injuries in Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents cause injuries ranging from minor to catastrophic. Common injuries include whiplash, sprains, strains, and broken bones requiring surgery and recovery. Head injuries, including TBIs, can cause permanent cognitive impairment. Spinal cord injuries may lead to paralysis and require lifetime care.
Internal injuries, though not immediately apparent, can be life-threatening. Psychological trauma, like anxiety, depression, and PTSD, is also common after serious accidents, especially those with severe injuries or fatalities.
The Claims Process for Rideshare Accidents
Filing a lawsuit after an Uber or Lyft car accident typically begins with insurance claims before proceeding to litigation if necessary.
Your attorney will investigate the accident to determine which insurance policies apply and who bears liability. This includes reviewing the accident report and analyzing the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the crash. It also includes examining cell phone records for evidence of driver distraction.
Frequently Asked Questions – Filing a Lawsuit After an Uber or Lyft Car Accident
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly, or must I sue the driver?
You can seek compensation from Uber/Lyft’s insurance, especially if the accident happened during your ride. Direct claims against the company are also possible for negligent driver approval or app malfunction. A rideshare accident attorney can help identify all compensation avenues.
What if I were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft when another driver caused the accident?
As a passenger, you have the right to file claims against both the at-fault driver’s insurance and potentially the rideshare company’s insurance policy. Passengers are rarely at fault for accidents, which generally strengthens claims. However, an Uber or Lyft accident lawyer will need to communicate with multiple insurance companies that may dispute responsibility. Having an attorney ensures all liable parties are held accountable.
Will filing a lawsuit affect my ability to use Uber or Lyft in the future?
No, pursuing legal compensation for injuries sustained in a rideshare accident will not affect your ability to use these services. Your claim is against insurance companies and potentially negligent drivers, not against the rideshare platforms themselves. You have the right to seek compensation for injuries regardless of your relationship with these companies.
What if the rideshare driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover my injuries?.
If the at-fault driver is underinsured, you have several options: the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (up to $1 million during specific periods), your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, or claims against other at-fault parties. Claims against Uber or Lyft for negligent driver approval are also possible. An attorney can help identify all compensation sources to maximize your recovery.
Contact Geary Law if You’re Filing a Lawsuit After an Uber or Lyft Car Accident
Rideshare companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to minimize their liability. You need equally strong representation protecting your interests. A Philadelphia personal injury attorney can help you file a lawsuit after an Uber or Lyft car accident by understanding types of insurance coverage, identifying all liable parties, and aggressively pursuing maximum compensation.
Contact Geary Law today for a free consultation to discuss your rideshare accident case and learn how we can recover the compensation you deserve. Phone (215)656-4050 now.
