The average person sets up Uber or Lyft rides without thinking twice, but accidents with these vehicles happen more often than you think. While the injuries and property damage are just like other motor vehicle crashes, the process for pursuing damages is not. These incidents raise different questions about liability, insurance coverage, and the potential for legal action.
Are Uber and Lyft Drivers Actual Employees?
Uber and Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors rather than employees, which impacts liability. When these drivers cause crashes, the companies often argue that they are not responsible for the actions of an independent contractor.
However, Uber and Lyft do carry insurance that applies when a driver is actively using the app. The extent of that coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. If the driver is waiting for a ride request, on the way to pick up a passenger, or transporting someone, different levels of insurance may apply. That influences whether you can pursue a claim against the company directly or through insurance.
Can Uber or Lyft Be Held Liable for a Driver’s Negligence?
Holding Uber or Lyft directly responsible for a driver’s actions is difficult because of the contractor classification. However, you may be able to pursue compensation through the company’s insurance policies. These policies may provide coverage up to $1 million for bodily injury and property damage if the driver was carrying a passenger or en route to pick someone up.
If the driver was not using the app or waiting for a ride request, then the driver’s personal insurance would typically apply. In those situations, Uber and Lyft usually deny responsibility. Even when the driver is logged in, the available coverage might be lower than the full amount offered during active trips.
What Should I Do After a Rideshare Accident in Texas?
Gather information as soon as possible. This includes the driver’s name, the status of the ride, contact details for all parties, and any eyewitness accounts. It is important to seek medical attention if you have been injured and maintain documentation of all related treatment and costs.
Reporting the accident to the rideshare company can help initiate the insurance process. Uber and Lyft have procedures for handling accident reports, and those reports may be reviewed by claims adjusters working with the companies’ insurers.
What if the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?
Uber and Lyft include uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage within their commercial policies when a trip is active. This means that if another driver causes the accident and does not carry enough insurance, the rideshare company’s policy may cover the remaining costs. However, if the trip was not in progress, this coverage may not apply. The availability of compensation will depend on the precise details of the accident and the timing of the ride status.
Can I File a Lawsuit Against Uber or Lyft Directly?
In most cases, claims are made through the company’s insurance rather than through a direct lawsuit against Uber or Lyft. However, under certain circumstances, such as allegations of negligent hiring, supervision, or failure to act on a known safety risk, it may be possible to pursue legal action directly against the company. These cases are typically more difficult and may require additional investigation into the company’s practices and policies.
Let Our El Paso Car Accident Lawyers at Flores Mendez Law Fight to Protect Your Rights
If you were injured in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, you may have legal options for compensation. Our experienced El Paso Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Flores Mendez Law can evaluate your situation and determine which parties may be held responsible. For a free consultation, call 800-381-9999 or complete our online form. Located in El Paso, Texas and Las Cruces, New Mexico, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.