More and more of the cars on the road in Texas and throughout the country are being driven by people who work for Uber and Lyft. While these drivers do have to meet minimum requirements in order to drive for the ride-hailing companies, that doesn’t mean that they’re all careful drivers. They are sometimes responsible for crashes.
The fact that they were driving for a rideshare company can make things complicated for their victims. Here are some frequently asked questions (and answers) about what to do when in an Uber/Lyft accident where one of their drivers is partly or completely at fault.
What Happens If You Get in an Accident While in an Uber/Lyft?
The first thing, of course, is to get the medical attention you need. As with any accident, if you’re able to, it’s wise to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene. If the police came to the scene, they’ll have a report that will state who they determined was at fault, or to what degree each driver bears responsibility.
Should Uber/Lyft Be Liable for the Conduct of Its Driver?
Uber’s and Lyft’s insurance becomes effective once a driver is active — meaning their driver app is turned on and they’re available to pick up rides, are en route to a pickup or are driving a passenger to a destination. However, if their driver app is off, their own auto insurance policy (which they’re required to carry by the rideshare companies) would apply.
Do I Have to Report an Accident to Uber or Lyft?
You should always report the accident as soon as you’re able to. If you were a passenger in the Uber/Lyft vehicle, you can report it through the app. If you were in another vehicle and were involved in a crash with a rideshare driver, you should report the accident through their website. However, if you’ve suffered injuries, don’t sign anything accepting a settlement until you’ve talked to an attorney.
Who Is Responsible for an Uber/Lyft Accident?
That all depends on the circumstances. If the accident was caused by another driver, their insurance should be responsible for covering your injuries, just as it would be in any crash. If your Uber or Lyft driver was at fault, whichever ridesharing company they were working for at the time should cover you. (Many people driver for both Uber and Lyft.) However, these are large companies, and getting the compensation you need and deserve may not be easy.
Can a Passenger Sue an Uber Driver?
Every situation is different. Your attorney can advise you about whether you have grounds to take separate legal action against the driver.
Can You Be Compensated for Being in an Uber/Lyft Accident?
Absolutely. However, it’s best not to try to deal with these companies on your own. You need an attorney with experience dealing with these companies. We know what happens if you get in an accident while in an Uber/Lyft and don’t know how to fight for the compensation you need and deserve. You could end up not being adequately compensated for medical bills, lost wages and noneconomic damages like pain and suffering and mental and emotional distress.
The Law Offices of Joe Ray Rodriguez, P.C., offers:
- A free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case
- Representation with no fees until we get a settlement or award for you
- 24/7 accessibility
- Compassionate legal assistance from a firm that has been serving people in and around Houston since 2002
- An attorney who has been named one of Texas Magazine’s Top Lawyers