July 12, 2024 | Reading Time: 5 min Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, especially if it involves a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Understanding who is liable and how to proceed with an insurance claim is crucial in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the complexities of dealing with insurance in the event of an Uber or Lyft accident.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Policies
Uber and Lyft, as leading ride-sharing companies, have comprehensive insurance policies designed to cover various aspects of their operations. Both companies provide insurance coverage that typically includes three main phases: offline, online without a passenger, and online with a passenger. These insurance policies aim to provide protection for both drivers and passengers throughout the ride-sharing process, ensuring a level of security and coverage in case of accidents or incidents.
- While the App is Off: When the driver is not logged into the rideshare app, Uber or Lyft Insurance policies are not active. Instead, the driver’s personal auto insurance is the primary coverage in the event of an accident.
- App On, No Ride Accepted: Once the driver turns on the app and is waiting for a ride request, both Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage.
- Ride Accepted to Passenger Drop-off: The most comprehensive Uber or Lyft coverage kicks in from the moment a ride is accepted until passengers are dropped off.
What to Do Immediately After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you find yourself involved in an accident as a rideshare passenger, driver, or another affected party, take the following steps:
- Ensure Your Safety: Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 if immediate medical assistance is needed.
- Contact Authorities: Report the accident to the police. A police report can be an invaluable piece of evidence during the insurance claim process.
- Gather Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved. Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Notify the Rideshare Company: Both Uber and Lyft have in-app features to report accidents. Use these to inform the company as soon as possible.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t have any apparent injuries, it’s wise to get a medical assessment, as some injuries may not be immediately noticeable.
- Contact A Personal Injury Lawyer: Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to help guide you through the complex process of filing a claim with Uber or Lyft’s insurance.
Navigating The Insurance Claims Process For Uber and Lyft
The insurance claims process after sustaining an injury in an Uber or Lyft accident can be complicated. Here’s what you can likely expect after an accident:
As a Rideshare Passenger
Being a passenger involved in an accident generally places you in a position where you’re not at fault. Both Uber and Lyft have liability insurance that should cover your injuries and damages. However, it’s essential to report the accident to both the rideshare company and the relevant insurance providers.
As a Rideshare Driver
If you were not at fault, the insurance of the at-fault driver should be responsible for your damages. However, you may also rely on Uber or Lyft’s insurance if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Being at fault presents a different scenario where you would have to depend on the rideshare company’s contingent comprehensive and collision policy, considering you have similar coverage on your personal insurance.
As a Third-party
If you’re another driver, pedestrian, or property owner involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle, you would typically file a claim against the rideshare driver’s insurance. Depending on the driver’s status (app on or off), either their personal insurance, Uber or Lyft’s policy, or a combination of both could apply.
How A Personal Injury Attorney Can Help After An Uber Or Lyft Accident
Personal injury attorneys can be valuable partners when navigating with the complex, or otherwise uncharted, landscape of Uber or Lyft accidents. A skilled attorney will have the experience and knowledge of how to successfully file a claim for compensation with Uber or Lyft’s insurance.
Working with an attorney can be an asset to your claim if:
- You’ve sustained significant injuries
- You’re facing mounting medical bills and lost wages
- The insurance company is disputing or downplaying your claim
- Multiple parties are involved, each with their insurance coverages
Your attorney and their team will work to investigate the accident, gather evidence to support your claim, navigate the intricacies of insurance laws, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. In instances where settlement offers are unsatisfactory, they can also represent you in court to seek the compensation you are entitled to.
Why Choose Cellino Law
When you’re recovering from injuries sustained in an Uber or Lyft accident, the last thing you want to worry about is going toe-to-toe with large insurance companies. At Cellino Law, our experienced legal team understands the intricacies of rideshare accidents and insurance claims. We are committed to advocating for your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.
Our attorneys have the skills and resources to handle your case with the attention and tenacity it deserves. From gathering critical evidence to negotiating with insurance adjusters and, if necessary, litigating on your behalf, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you or a loved one has been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t navigate the complex insurance landscape alone. Contact Cellino Law today at 888-888-8888, and let our experienced team help you on the road to recovery.
Content checked by the personal injury attorney Ross Cellino. As a family man and a trial attorney, I pride myself on winning cases and serving the community. With over 35 years of experience, I understand the function of a jury, how juries arrive at conclusions, and the role that the jury plays in administering justice. I know how to win cases. You can find us in Manhattan, Buffalo, Melville, Rochester, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens and other locations throughout New York.