There has been a significant increase in Texans relying on rideshare services, such as Lyft and Uber, for daily transportation. While you might know how to use an app to book a ride, do you know what to do if you’re involved in an accident using a rideshare service? Understanding how rideshare accident claims work in Texas is crucial, whether you’re the rideshare driver, the passenger, or another motorist involved in the accident. Keep reading to understand the basics. Who Can File a Rideshare Accident Claim? Several people can be eligible to file a rideshare accident claim with a trusted lawyer in Texas, including: Passengers injured while in the car of a rideshare service provider Rideshare drivers injured while working Other motorists involved in the collision with the Uber or Lyft driver Pedestrians or cyclists hit by a rideshare vehicle Rideshare Insurance Coverage Believe it or not, insurance coverage in a rideshare accident can depend on the rideshare driver’s status when the accident happened. While rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide their drivers with insurance coverage, it doesn’t come into effect in all situations. That’s why drivers also need to have private insurance. Situation #1: The Rideshare Driver Is Offline and the App is Off If a rideshare driver is involved in an accident while they are offline with their rideshare app off, their own personal automotive insurance applies. The rideshare company’s insurance will not cover the costs associated with the accident. Situation #2: The Rideshare Driver Is Waiting for a Request and the App is On As soon as a rideshare driver turns their app on and is actively waiting for a passenger request, the company they work for, such as Uber or Lyft, provides limited liability coverage. This is typically capped at $25,000 for property damage, $50,000 for bodily injury per person, and $100,000 per accident. It’s essential to note that most personal auto insurance policies typically do not cover accidents that occur during commercial driving. As a result, insurance companies often require rideshare company drivers to add rideshare insurance coverage to their policy. Situation #3: The Rideshare Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Has a Passenger in Their Vehicle More comprehensive insurance options kick in when a rideshare driver has accepted a ride or has already picked up their passenger. Alongside $1 million in liability coverage from most rideshare companies, drivers may also be covered by uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as well as contingent comprehensive and collision coverage if they have it. What to Do When You’re in a Rideshare Accident Even if you understand the complexities of insurance in rideshare accidents, that doesn’t mean you’ll know what to do if you’ve been involved in one. Take these necessary steps below: 1. Call emergency services and report the accident 2. Receive medical attention, even if your injuries are minor. Healthcare professionals can rule out anything serious and provide an injury report. 3. Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and visible injuries. 4. Obtain contact information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver, passengers, occupants of other vehicles, and witnesses. 5. Whether you’re the rideshare driver, passenger, or someone else involved in the accident, you can report the accident through the rideshare app. 6. Contact a trusted personal injury lawyer who has experience in rideshare accident claims for help. Why Work with a Lawyer for Rideshare Accidents? The legal system can be complex enough to navigate after a traditional accident, but it can be even more so when you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident. Hiring an experienced rideshare accident lawyer in Texas can be a significant advantage for many reasons: Help identify the liable parties Communicate with the rideshare company on your behalf Maximize compensation, such as lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering Contact Parks Law Firm for Help with a Rideshare Accident Claim Have you been involved in a rideshare accident in Texas? Contact the expert team at Parks Law Firm today. We are experienced personal injury lawyers with expertise in car accidents, truck accidents, property damage, wrongful death, and other personal injury cases. Request a free consultation for clear legal guidance, and let’s work towards the legal outcome you deserve. Share article:
