As our country continues to modernize through the use of smartphones and apps, the use of rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft continues to rise, resulting in the increase number of vehicles on the road taking passengers from one destination to another. Rideshare apps offer customers the convenience that we’ve now become accustomed to as a result of technological advancement. However, the increase in Uber and Lyft drivers on the road means there is also a rise in the number of Uber and Lyft car accidents that occur each year.

Though some car accidents can be relatively clear-cut when it comes to determining liability, Uber and Lyft accidents are another matter entirely. Many wonder how an accident involving a rideshare vehicle would affect their car accident claim.

Determining whether a rideshare driver or the rideshare company can be held liable for damages depending on that nature of the accident. Because rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors and now employees, this limits the liability the company holds for a driver’s actions.

There are generally three scenarios a victim can find themselves in when it comes to a Lyft or Uber accident:

The rideshare vehicle was not active on the app at the time of the accident: If the Uber or Lyft driver was driving their own car for personal use at the time of their accident, the rideshare company isn’t involved at all. Drivers must rely on their personal auto insurance to pay damages like any other personal car driver.
The rideshare vehicle was waiting for a ride request at the time of the accident: When a driver is waiting for a request and logged into their apps during the accident, they may have limited coverage supplied by the rideshare company. Uber and Lyft have third party liability coverage, meaning that the other party can receive coverage including $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage. However, this is a secondary policy, which means you must first file a claim with the driver’s personal policy, and then the rideshare company will cover any unpaid damages.
The rideshare vehicle was on their way to or carrying a passenger at the time of the accident: There is extra coverage if a passenger is riding. If the driver was actively on their way to a passenger or carrying a passenger at the time of the accident, then Uber or Lyft will extend coverage to at least $1 million per accident and provide uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage.

Uber and Lyft are, above all else, for-profit businesses that do what they can to distance themselves from their drivers in the event of an accident to avoid taking responsibility. Even if you are entitled to receiving compensation from companies after an accident, insurance adjusters can try to undermine your claim. This is why it’s crucial that you hire a personal injury attorney who can defend your rights to full and fair compensation.

Handling Complex Car Accidents

Alex Yadgarov & Associates has handled a wide variety of personal injury claims, including a range of situations that can occur specifically in car accidents. Whether you have been injured by a drunk driver, a commercial vehicle, or a rideshare driver, you deserve to be compensated for the at-fault party’s negligence, no matter what. Our car accident attorneys go to great lengths to support our clients’ cases and pursue their legal goals. Through our dedication and experience, we’ve been able to recover damages that include lost wages, medical expenses, property damages, pain and suffering sustained from injuries, and even additional expenses like parking tickets. You can trust us with your case knowing we strive to cover all our bases and provide you with a more secure future after an accident.

Contact Alex Yadgarov & Associates online or by phone at (718) 276-2800 after a car accident, including if a Lyft or Uber driver is involved. Having a capable legal team on your side is necessary toward resolving complex issues and securing your desired compensation.