Driving for rideshare services like Uber or Lyft offers flexibility and independence, but it also comes with responsibilities, especially in the event of an accident. Understanding what to do can save you a lot of stress and potential legal troubles.
Immediate Steps After an Uber or Lyft Car Accident
Were you just involved in a rideshare accident? Take these steps immediately:
- Ensure safety first: Check for injuries, and if anyone is hurt, call 911.
- Report the incident: Inform the police, who will generate an official accident report crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
- Gather information: Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver. Then, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Notify the rideshare company: Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through the company’s app or helpline. This step activates their support system and insurance coverage.
Understanding Rideshare Driver Insurance Coverage
Uber and Lyft require drivers to carry the minimum insurance coverage required in their state. For example, rideshare drivers in Texas must have at least $30,000 of coverage for injuries per person, up to $60,000 for injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. This is written as 30/60/25.
Uber and Lyft offer supplementary liability insurance for their drivers, but this only applies under the following circumstances:
- The driver’s personal insurer refuses to provide coverage for an accident that occurred during “business use” (i.e., driving for Uber or Lyft).
- The compensation due to other injured parties exceeds the driver’s policy limit.
Even when Uber or Lyft’s insurance kicks in for their drivers, the coverage depends on your status at the time of the accident:
- If the rideshare app is off, your personal auto insurance applies.
- If the app is on and you’re waiting for a passenger match, limited liability coverage from Uber or Lyft kicks in.
- If you’re en route to pick up a passenger or in the middle of a trip, Uber or Lyft’s full $1 million liability insurance policy covers you.
All of these situations have exceptions, making it confusing to understand when different insurance coverage applies and what it covers. That’s why it’s best to seek legal assistance if you get in an accident while driving for Uber or Lyft. Professional guidance can help you understand your rights, deal with insurance complexities, and pursue appropriate compensation.
Contact an Uber and Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Texas
At Nava Law Group, we understand how a rideshare accident can complicate your life. With more than 150 years of combined legal experience and a proven track record of success, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome in your case. Our 24/7 response team makes it easy to reach our car accident attorneys when you need us most. If you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, contact us at 713.661.9900 for a free consultation at one of our personal injury law offices in Houston, Bellaire, Edinburg, or Austin, TX.
