Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Most people do not consider the possibility of getting in a crash when they book an Uber or Lyft ride, but it happens. Determining liability for rideshare accidents can be complicated because multiple parties may share responsibility; both companies are also large corporations with their legal teams.
Can My Rideshare Driver Be Held Responsible for My Crash?
The rideshare driver may be held liable if their negligence contributed to the accident. Negligence can include behaviors such as:
- Distracted driving, including texting or using the phone while operating the vehicle.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Speeding or reckless driving.
- Failing to obey traffic signals or signs.
If the rideshare driver’s actions are found to have caused the collision, the injured parties may seek compensation from the driver’s personal auto insurance or the rideshare company’s insurance policy, depending on the circumstances.
Can Uber or Lyft Be Held Liable?
Although Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, there are certain situations in which the companies themselves may share liability. For example, if the rideshare app malfunctions or if company policies contribute to unsafe driving conditions, liability may extend to the company.
Uber and Lyft carry liability insurance policies that cover accidents under specific circumstances. These policies usually apply in cases where:
- The driver was logged into the app but had not yet accepted a ride request.
- The driver was on the way to pick up a passenger.
- A passenger was in the vehicle when the accident occurred.
The coverage amounts vary depending on whether the ride was in progress or if the driver was simply available for ride requests.
What Role Does the Status of the Driver Play?
The status of the driver at the time of the accident significantly influences the insurance coverage available. Only their auto insurance applies if the driver was not logged in. Neither Uber nor Lyft would provide coverage. Both companies offer limited liability coverage When a driver is logged in and awaiting a ride request. This coverage typically includes:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury.
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
- $25,000 for property damage.
The rideshare companies provide more comprehensive coverage when a ride is in progress. This includes:
- $1 million for third-party liability.
- Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which applies if another driver is at fault but lacks sufficient insurance.
There may also be collision and comprehensive coverage if the driver carries these coverages on their policy.
What if Another Motorist Is Involved?
If another motorist contributed to the accident, they might also share liability. For instance, if another vehicle ran a red light and collided with the Uber or Lyft car, that driver may be considered at fault. In those cases, the injured parties could file claims against the at-fault driver’s insurance.
If multiple drivers share liability, it may be necessary to determine the degree of fault for each party involved. This assessment influences the amount of compensation that can be recovered.
What if Uber or Lyft Denies My Claim?
If Uber or Lyft denies your claim, you may consider appealing the decision or pursuing legal action. An attorney experienced in ridesharing accidents can help you understand your next steps for potentially seeking compensation through other avenues, such as the at-fault driver’s insurance or a personal injury lawsuit.
The El Paso Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Flores Mendez Law Can Fight to Protect Your Rights After a Rideshare Crash
The skilled El Paso Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Flores Mendez Law understand how complicated rideshare accident claims can be. Our team can help guide you through the legal process and fight to protect your rights. For a free consultation, call our El Paso, Texas, Las Cruces, New Mexico offices at 915-308-9999 or submit our online form. We serve clients in the surrounding areas.

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