Who is liable for rideshare accident injuries?

When you order a ride via a rideshare app such as Uber or Lyft, you place your trust in the driver to take you to your destination safely.

Unfortunately, accidents are inevitable. When your rideshare crashes, resulting in one or more injuries, it can be difficult to determine who is at fault. Is it the driver of your rideshare car or the driver of the other vehicle? Is it you?

Potentially liable parties

Both Uber and Lyft carry million-dollar third-party liability policies on their drivers. If an investigation determines that your driver is at fault for the collision, then your rideshare company may be liable for negligence. If the other driver caused the crash, then their personal vehicle insurance should cover any damages. If the accident is the result of equipment malfunction or a defective car part, then the vehicle manufacturing company may be responsible.

When your Uber or Lyft crashes

To make sure the right party takes responsibility for the crash, you can do your due diligence at the time of the accident and after. A few key steps include:

• Reporting the incident to law enforcement immediately
• Seeking medical attention for your injuries as soon as possible
• Taking photos and/or videos at the scene of the accident
• Using the mobile app to report the accident to Uber or Lyft as soon as possible

Each motor vehicle accident is unique. Knowing your case’s facts and your rights as a car accident victim will help you prevail in your personal injury claim.