Uber Accident Claims: What to Do in a Ridesharing Accident Case

Lyft and Uber are alternative transportation services people can use to get around, even in areas where taxi services and public transportation are not available. Just like any other driver on the road, there is always a risk of accidents, although initiating Lyft and Uber accident claims can vary, depending who was at fault and other such factors.

Whether you are a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, you would initiate a claim like you would for any other auto accident:

1. Call 911 and file a police report.
2. Take pictures of the accident.
3. Get contact details for any witnesses.
4. Write down the name of the driver(s), vehicle details, and license plate number(s).
5. Take a picture of your Lyft or Uber ride and/or receipt if you were a passenger.
6. Contact a car accident lawyer in your area.

Both Lyft and Uber provide up to $1 million in liability and up to $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorists coverages for their drivers. However, there is a catch in some states: If drivers are off duty and their driving apps are not on, and they are not waiting to accept a ride fare, then these coverages do not apply.

If  Lyft or Uber drivers were off duty, then you would initiate the claim directly against them. If the accident was caused by another driver, not the Lyft or Uber driver, then you would file a claim against the other driver, not your rideshare driver.

The thing to remember is the vast majority of rideshare drivers are considered contractors. As such, you would sue the contractor, not Lyft or Uber directly, when you have been injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver.

To find out your legal rights or for assistance in filing a personal injury claim after a rideshare accident, please feel free to contact Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P., Accident & Injury Lawyers now for a free consultation.