Rideshare accidents can not only leave you facing lasting injuries and significant medical bills, but also a lot of complicated legal questions. Victims often wonder whether the driver bears full responsibility for their injuries or if companies like Uber or Lyft might be liable.
Liability and insurance coverage in these accidents depend on several factors, including the driver’s status at the time of the accident. This quick guide from Farha Law, PLLC, explains how liability works in a rideshare accident, what to do after one, and what a skilled Oklahoma car accident attorney can do for you.
Who Might Be Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Several parties can share liability in a rideshare accident, including:
- The Rideshare Driver: If the driver was distracted, impaired, fatigued, speeding, or otherwise negligent, they may bear responsibility for the accident.
- Other Drivers: If another motorist acted negligently and caused or contributed to the crash, they can share liability.
- Rideshare Companies: While rare, companies may face liability if they fail to properly vet drivers or maintain safety standards.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: Occasionally, defects in the vehicle may contribute to the accident, creating additional avenues for compensation.
What Insurance Coverage Applies in a Rideshare Accident?
The insurance policy that applies to a rideshare accident depends on whether the driver was offline, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively driving a passenger when the collision occurred. The four different scenarios include:
- The Driver is Offline: When the driver is offline and not using the app, compensation for injuries and property damage typically comes from their personal auto insurance policy.
- The Driver is Online and Waiting for a Passenger: If the driver is logged onto the app but hasn’t accepted a ride, the rideshare company may provide limited liability coverage when the driver’s personal insurance denies the claim.
- The Driver is En Route to a Passenger: If the accident occurs while the driver is headed to pick up a passenger, the rideshare company’s full commercial liability policy typically applies.
- A Passenger is in the Vehicle: If the driver has a passenger in the vehicle at the time of the accident, compensation typically comes from the rideshare company’s full commercial liability policy.
What To Do After a Rideshare Accident
Acting quickly after a rideshare accident can protect both your safety and your legal rights. Be sure to:
- Seek prompt medical attention.
- Call 911 and report the accident to the police.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene.
- Gather witness names and contact information.
- Keep an organized file of all medical and financial records.
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney right away.
Insurers may reach out requesting recorded statements or offering lowball settlements. These are attempts to weaken your claim and minimize your payout. Never admit fault, never accept quick settlements, don’t agree to make any recorded statements, and refer them to your lawyer whenever possible.
How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help
A skilled car accident attorney will guide you through every step of the legal process and protect your rights. Your attorney can help by:
- Reviewing your case for free
- Investigating the accident and identifying all liable parties
- Determining which insurance policy applies
- Gathering evidence to build a compelling claim
- Calculating for maximum compensation
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Representing you in court, if necessary
Contact an Oklahoma Rideshare Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve suffered injuries in a rideshare accident in Oklahoma, you need an experienced attorney to protect your rights. The team at Farha Law, PLLC, will fight for the accountability and compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery. Contact our law firm today for your free consultation.