In recent years, there has been a proliferation of Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies. This increases the likelihood that you may be involved in an accident involving a rideshare driver. Following such an accident, you may have various options for pursuing a San Antonio Uber accident claim, including:
Filing a Claim Against the Rideshare Driver’s Personal Liability Insurance
While Texas law requires drivers to carry special rideshare insurance, they must also continue to carry the insurance required of all other drivers. The minimum liability insurance that all drivers must carry in Texas includes:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,00 for property damage coverage
This insurance pays for the damages the driver causes someone else due to their negligence. This option may apply when the driver was not on the app at the time of the accident. Sometimes, rideshare companies require you to file this claim and have it denied before you can file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurance.
Filing a Claim with the Rideshare Company’s Insurance
Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage up to $1 million for individuals injured in accidents involving their drivers. However, the coverage that applies depends on when the accident occurred during the transaction. If the collision occurs while the driver is logged onto the app but has not yet accepted a ride, less insurance applies. For example, Uber provides $50,000 in bodily injury per person, $100,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 in property damage.
Once the driver has accepted a ride until the passenger is dropped off, Uber and Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy applies.
Filing a Claim with Another Driver’s Insurance
Just because a rideshare vehicle was involved in an accident doesn’t mean the rideshare driver was at fault. If another driver was at fault for the Uber accident, you might be able to file a claim with their liability insurance provider.
Filing a Lawsuit Against the Rideshare Company
Because rideshare companies generally use independent contractors as their drivers, they are not generally considered their employer or responsible for the driver’s negligence. However, if the rideshare company was negligent – such as by negligently screening the driver, contributing to distracted driving, or hiring an unlicensed driver – you may be able to sue the rideshare company. In this type of case, you would definitely need a San Antonio Lyft accident lawyer who can conduct extensive discovery, investigate hiring practices, and review business records to show how the rideshare company’s negligence directly contributed to your injuries.
Filing a Claim with Your Insurance
You may have insurance under your own policy that could apply in this situation, such as personal injury protection, uninsured motorist coverage, or collision insurance.
If you were injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver, you need an experienced San Antonio car accident attorney who understands the complexities involving rideshare accidents. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.