Ridesharing has quickly become a part of daily life. Whether your car is in the shop or you just need a lift, services like Uber and Lyft are the go-to solutions. But let’s be honest: Have you ever asked yourself these questions when you’re on Lyft or Uber, and the driver doesn’t seem reliable? What if an accident happens? Who will be responsible for the damage? Understanding who’s liable in an Uber or Lyft accident is crucial, primarily if you rely on these services frequently.
Let’s explore what happens when things go wrong, who can be held accountable, and the steps you need to take to protect yourself because, in these situations, knowledge is your power, so empower yourself.
Who Covers Your Losses in a Rideshare Accident?
Below, we describe the potential scenarios you might face while using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Whether you’re en route to your destination, in the vehicle during the accident, or dealing with a hit-and-run, understanding how liability and insurance work is critical; each situation comes with its legal nuisance, especially in Colorado. Knowing who bears responsibility and the legal steps you need to take can significantly affect your rights.
Riding with Lyft or Uber? Let’s Talk Liability When Your Driver Crashes
When you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, and the driver is logged into the app, they are considered acting within the scope of their employment. In the event of an accident, both the driver and the rideshare company may bear legal responsibility. Uber and Lyft provide commercial insurance policies with coverage limits of up to $1 million, addressing liabilities such as bodily injury and property damage.
Please be advised: This insurance coverage applies as long as the driver is actively logged into the app and engaged in transporting passengers. This ensures that you have access to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages in case of an accident.
What If Your Driver Was Careful and Not at Fault?
What if your Uber or Lyft driver followed all the rules and regulations and drove carefully, and an accident still occurred due to another driver’s negligence? In such a situation, you might wonder who the responsible party is. Can you seek compensation from Uber, Lyft, or even the driver?
If another party is at fault for the accident, they are typically the legally responsible party. You can seek compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses from the at-fault driver or their insurance company. This includes situations where the other driver was reckless or violated traffic laws, making them liable under the negligence principles.
However, if the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured and cannot cover the full extent of your damages, Uber and Lyft provide uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage protects passengers when the responsible party lacks adequate insurance, allowing you to seek compensation from the rideshare company’s insurance for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related damages.
What Happens If You’re Struck by an Uber or Lyft Driver While Walking or Cycling
Accidents involving rideshare vehicles aren’t limited to passengers. Imagine walking down the street or riding your bicycle, and an Uber or Lyft driver hits you. The whole situation revolves around whether the driver is using the app, which is the key point in determining who covers your losses.
If the driver is logged into the app—whether waiting for a ride request or transporting passengers—the rideshare company’s liability insurance applies. Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in coverage for bodily injury and property damage, which extends to pedestrians and cyclists. This insurance would cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
However, if the driver isn’t logged into the app, such as when they’re driving home after completing their shift, the rideshare company’s insurance won’t apply. Instead, the driver’s auto insurance would be responsible for covering any damages. Knowing whether the driver was logged into the app can significantly affect which insurance will cover your losses in these situations. If you are in an accident involving a rideshare driver, it’s important to document the scene, report the incident to authorities, and consult with a legal professional to ensure you understand your rights and the next steps.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Lyft or Uber Accident
After finding yourself in an Uber or Lyft accident, your priority should be to check for any injuries or damages and move to a safe location if possible. Call 911 immediately to report the accident, and be sure to gather essential information at the scene. Take photos or videos of the cars involved, document any visible damages, and capture location details.
Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, reporting the accident to the rideshare company is crucial. If you order through Uber, you can report the incident through their app or website. The same applies if you were using Lyft. Promptly reporting the accident ensures the rideshare company is notified and helps establish a clear record that the incident occurred while using their service.
Call Us Today at Killian, Davis, Richter, & Fredenburg
Don’t let the legal complexities of an Uber or Lyft accident discourage you from pursuing the compensation you deserve. At Killian Davis Richter & Fredenburg, our seasoned lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the process. We’ll handle the negotiations with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary so you can focus on getting your life back on track. Take the next step today. Contact us for the experienced legal support you need to move forward confidently.