Who Is Liable for Your Injuries in a Rideshare Accident?

In any personal injury claim, determining liability can be complex and often involves untangling multiple factors and parties. However, when you are dealing with Lyft, Uber, or another rideshare company, it can be even more complicated. So, who is liable for your injuries in a rideshare accident?

Depending on the circumstances, responsibility may fall on the rideshare driver, another motorist, or even the rideshare company itself, depending on the driver’s status and insurance coverage.

A Phoenix Uber and Lyft rideshare accident lawyer can help you identify who is legally responsible for your injuries and pursue the compensation you deserve while guiding you through the legal process with clarity and confidence.

How Is Liability Determined in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability in a rideshare accident is determined by analyzing several factors, including who caused the crash and the rideshare driver’s status at the time.

This process can be complex, as it often involves multiple parties and layers of insurance coverage. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key considerations:

The Rideshare Driver’s Status

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft offer varying levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident:

Driver Not Logged into the App: If the driver wasn’t using the app when the accident occurred, they’re considered off-duty. In this case, their personal auto insurance policy is solely responsible for covering rideshare injuries and damages, as the rideshare company’s insurance does not apply.
Driver Logged In But Without a Passenger: When the driver is online and waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company typically provides limited liability insurance, which may cover damages up to a specified amount if the driver is at fault. This coverage is often secondary to the driver’s personal insurance.
Driver Logged In and Transporting a Passenger: If the driver is actively transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up, the rideshare company’s higher liability insurance coverage is activated. This coverage is usually up to $1 million and includes both third-party liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Fault of Another Motorist

When another driver causes the accident, their insurance policy is typically responsible for paying for injuries in a rideshare accident.

However, complications arise if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. In these cases, the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may step in to cover damages, but only if the rideshare driver’s status activates this additional coverage.

Mechanical Failures or Road Hazards

Liability isn’t always limited to drivers. In some situations, responsibility may extend to other entities:

Mechanical Failures: If a defective vehicle part caused the crash, the manufacturer, a repair shop, or even the rideshare company (if it failed to ensure the vehicle’s safety) could share liability.
Road Hazards: Poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or hazardous conditions may place liability on a government agency responsible for road maintenance. Proving this requires thorough investigation and documentation of the hazardous conditions.

Understanding these layers of liability is critical to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. A thorough investigation and legal experience are often required to hold the appropriate parties accountable.

For a free legal consultation, call (866) 499-8989

What Damages Can You Recover in a Rideshare Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensatory damages for:

Medical Expenses: Costs for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
Lost Wages: Income you’ve lost due to your inability to work during recovery.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the emotional and physical toll of the accident.
Property Damage: Repairs or replacement for damaged belongings, including your vehicle if relevant.

Why Rideshare Accident Claims Can Be Complicated

Rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, the rideshare company, other motorists, and their respective insurance companies. Each party may try to shift blame to avoid paying damages, making it difficult to determine who is truly responsible.

Additionally, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification can further complicate claims, as rideshare companies may argue they are not liable for a driver’s actions.

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How a Phoenix Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Help

The aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, especially when liability is unclear. A skilled Phoenix rideshare accident lawyer can:

Investigate the accident to determine fault.
Review insurance policies to identify available coverage.
Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

At Zanes Law, we have extensive experience handling rideshare accident cases. Our team is here to guide you through this challenging process, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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