What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Texas

If you’ve been in an accident, it’s typically a stressful experience with plenty to worry about. However, a car wreck can get even more complicated if it involves a rideshare vehicle driven by an Uber or Lyft driver. Liability might be in dispute, and it can be complicated to access the insurance policies of these rideshare companies. You may be wondering what to do after an Uber or Lyft Accident in Texas.

Each rideshare accident case is unique, and a knowledgeable car accident attorney in Texas can review what happened and discuss your next steps. Stevenson & Murray can explain what you should do if you’ve found yourself involved in an accident with a rideshare car. Our firm knows how to resolve cases for victims of rideshare vehicle wrecks.

Uber has a market share of $62.5 billion, and Lyft has $5.5 billion. Although rideshare vehicles account for 13% of traffic on the road, that is still a substantial number of vehicles overall. As the most common cause of death in individuals in the 13-25 age group is car accidents, it can be very useful to know who is liable in a rideshare accident.

Who Is Liable for a Rideshare Accident?

An accident involving a rideshare driver isn’t always simple. Unlike a traditional car accident, where you’d just file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance to cover your injuries and property damage, determining the party responsible for your rideshare accident damages depends on your specific situation.

Both the rideshare company and the driver have their own insurance coverage, and an experienced attorney can explore the available coverage based on the circumstances of your unique case.

In Texas, insurance coverage is triggered based on the driver’s status when the accident occurs and Texas’s accident insurance regulations. Here are some scenarios to explain which insurance policy might be available for your recovery:

• If a rideshare driver is offline/their driver app is off, then their personal insurance policy is typically available. Rideshare company coverage usually doesn’t apply.
• If the driver is online/waiting for a passenger’s request for a ride, then they have company policy insurance coverage on top of their personal accident policy coverage. If complete coverage isn’t sufficient for injuries and damage claims, the rideshare company’s policy may provide supplemental coverage.
• If a rideshare driver accepted a passenger’s ride request/they’re transporting a passenger, the company’s insurance coverage typically compensates for injuries and property damage caused by the driver.
• If you were a passenger in a rideshare that got into an accident, the responsibility for your injury and property damages typically depends on which party caused the crash. If the driver was responsible, a company like Uber or Lyft would provide financial recovery. However, if another driver caused the crash, you could file a damages claim with their insurance company.

As a result, the rideshare driver’s status when an accident happens is critical for insurance coverage determinations.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Involved in a Rideshare Accident?

If you were part of an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, it’s important to gather as much information as possible. It’s critical to get:

• The driver’s name
• Contact information for all involved parties
• The vehicle’s license plate number

Then, report the accident to the local police department and the relevant rideshare company. At the scene, exchange contact information with any witnesses, and document the accident scene by taking photos and videos. Make sure you capture any details that may have led to the accident.

If you suffered substantial injuries, seek medical attention. You can report the accident to your insurance company, but don’t give any details. Also, consider contacting a personal injury attorney to discuss what to do and protect your legal rights. An attorney can investigate the accident and establish the at-fault party’s liability.

FAQs

If I’ve Been in a Rideshare Accident, Do I Have to Call the Police?

In Texas, you’re required to report a motor vehicle accident if:

• There’s been any injury or fatality.
• You can’t move the vehicles.
• There’s been substantial property damage (usually over $1,000).

It’s often helpful to contact the police, as they’ll complete a police report. This document typically serves as an impartial record of important accident details, and it can help establish fault if you file a personal injury claim.

How Do Rideshare Accidents Typically Happen?

Just like any other motor vehicle crash, rideshare accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Nevertheless, rideshares have many specific risks that can add to more traditional road safety issues, like:

• Distracted drivers relying on navigation apps for unfamiliar passenger locations
• Driver fatigue if they are working long hours
• Insufficient driver training
• Reckless driving
• Speeding
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Insurance complications
• Unclear liability

An attorney can determine how your rideshare accident happened and build a solid case.

What Types of Compensation Are Available for a Rideshare Accident?

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident that wasn’t your fault, you might be entitled to compensation, which can include recovery for medical bills, wage loss, pain and suffering damages, and more. The exact types of compensation available in your case depend on the details of your accident and the severity of your injuries. An attorney can maximize your compensation and pursue all potential sources of recovery.

Is There a Time Limit to File a Claim After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations deadline is two years for the majority of rideshare personal injury claims. It might seem like two years is plenty of time; however, it’s important to act swiftly to protect your rights and ability to seek financial recovery. If you delay, you could lose your right to damages.

An attorney can quickly file your claim and increase your likelihood of success with your recovery.

Consult Stevenson & Murray Today

Since rideshare accidents are complicated and often involve the legal nuances of Texas law, it’s essential to have a skilled attorney by your side. Stevenson & Murray can make sure you have knowledgeable representation for your case, and we can fiercely advocate for your rights. We have a professional reputation at the Harris County Civil Courts for being dedicated, knowledgeable attorneys.

If you’ve been involved in an accident, feel free to visit our law office. We’re located in the Greenway/Upper Kirby neighborhood of Houston. Located six miles southwest of downtown Houston, we’re right off I-10, U.S. 59, and I-610, with plenty of client parking.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.