Content may contain affiliate links.
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But when the accident involves a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, things can get even more confusing. Who’s responsible? Is it the driver? The company? Or someone else? These are important questions, especially if you’re dealing with injuries or property damage.
Rideshare accidents can happen anywhere, but busy urban areas often see the most cases. In cities like Philadelphia, where rideshare traffic is high, figuring out who’s liable can feel like solving a puzzle. That’s where the guidance of Philadelphia Uber/Lyft rideshare injury lawyers can really make a difference.
Photo by Erik Mclean on Pexels
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Liability depends on several factors. Was the Uber or Lyft driver at fault? Were they picking up or dropping off a passenger? Was another vehicle responsible? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
In general, three parties could be held liable:
- The rideshare driver
- Another driver
- Uber or Lyft’s insurance provider
Each situation is different. That’s why it’s important to look at the details of the crash.
Understanding the Rideshare Insurance Policy
Uber and Lyft have different levels of insurance coverage based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
1. App Off:
If the driver is not logged into the app, their personal car insurance applies. Uber or Lyft won’t cover anything in this situation.
2. App On, Waiting for a Ride Request:
Both companies offer limited liability coverage during this phase. It usually covers up to $50,000 per person for injuries, up to $100,000 per accident, and up to $25,000 for property damage.
3. En Route or On a Trip:
Once the driver accepts a ride request or is actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. This includes uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, too.
What if You’re a Passenger?
If you were a passenger during the crash, you’re likely covered under the $1 million liability policy. That’s good news. But it doesn’t always mean getting compensation is easy. Rideshare companies may still try to shift blame or delay payouts. That’s why having someone on your side is so important.
What About Other Drivers and Pedestrians?
If you were driving your own car or walking and were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, you may still be able to file a claim. Again, it depends on whether the driver was logged into the app and working. The company’s insurance may cover your injuries, or you may need to go after the driver’s personal policy.
Why Determining Liability Is Complicated
Unlike traditional taxi services, rideshare drivers use their own vehicles. They’re not always considered employees, which means companies like Uber and Lyft often claim they’re not responsible. That makes personal injury claims more complex.
You might need to prove the driver was negligent or that Uber/Lyft failed to properly vet their drivers. Sometimes, accident reconstruction or expert testimony becomes necessary.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in a rideshare crash, take these steps:
- Get medical help immediately, even if you feel fine
- Call the police and file a report
- Take pictures of the accident scene and vehicles
- Get contact info from witnesses and the driver
- Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app
- Speak to a rideshare accident lawyer before talking to insurance companies
Final Thoughts
Rideshare accidents are more common than many people realize. And when they happen, figuring out who’s responsible can get tricky. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, or pedestrian, you have rights.
Don’t try to handle everything alone. If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare crash, it’s always smart to talk to a lawyer who understands how these claims work. That conversation could make all the difference in getting the compensation you deserve.
Please be advised that our content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a trained legal professional. Please seek the advice of a legal professional if you’re facing legal/law issues.
Disclosure: She Owns It partners with others through contributor posts, affiliate links, and sponsored content. We are compensated for sponsored content. The views and opinions expressed reflect those of our guest contributor or sponsor. We have evaluated the links and content to the best of our ability at this time to make sure they meet our guidelines. As links and information evolve, we ask that readers do their due diligence, research, and consult with professionals as needed. If you have questions or concerns about any content published on our site, please let us know. We strive to only publish ethical content that supports our community. Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.