What Are My Rights After an Uber or Lyft Accident?

People often use Uber or Lyft when traveling, to avoid drinking and driving, and to avoid busy parking lots. However, these rideshare vehicles are not immune from car accidents.

The aftermath of a rideshare accident is similar to other motor vehicle collisions. You should call the police, report the accident, and get medical attention. Document the scene well, taking photos of the other driver’s license, registration, and insurance.

It is also a good idea to snap photos of the scene, including injuries, vehicle damage, and skid marks. Check for downed traffic signs, malfunctioning traffic signals, and anything else that may have contributed to the accident.

Report the accident to Uber or Lyft as soon as possible. Let your auto insurance company know what happened if you were driving, but do not admit fault; give them the facts and do not elaborate. You can also contact a car accident lawyer for an initial consultation.

It is important to know that Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors. When the driver is signed into the app waiting for a ride request, the limited insurance coverage includes:

• Bodily injury protection of $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
• Property damage of $25,000 per accident

Uber and Lyft also carry $1 million dollars in third-party liability coverage. This includes uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury, plus contingent comprehensive and collision coverage. That coverage is only in effect once the rideshare driver accepts the request. It stays in effect until the customer gets dropped off.

If you crash with a rideshare driver who was not logged into the app, you can file a claim against the rideshare’s insurance provider or seek damages from the driver through a personal injury lawsuit.  You also have the right to claim insurance benefits and seek damages from other liable parties.

As you can see, several variables can dictate how your claim or case is handled. You might have been a rideshare passenger or the driver or passenger in the vehicle that the Uber or Lyft crashed into. Rideshare drivers also make insurance claims. However, if a driver claims they were logged in but were not, or vice versa, an investigation may need to take place.

Contact a St. Clair County Car Accident Lawyer at The Cates Law Firm for Legal Guidance Following an Uber or Lyft Accident

Rideshare services are undoubtedly convenient, but things can become complicated after an accident. A knowledgeable St. Clair County car accident lawyer at The Cates Law Firm can provide a free consultation and explain your options. Call 618-277-3644 or complete our online form today. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients in St. Louis, Belleville, East St. Louis, Edwardsville, Granite City, Waterloo, Chester, Carbondale, St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Randolph County, and other regions throughout Southern Illinois.