Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed how people travel, but with over 28 million daily trips and 1.5 million U.S. drivers, accidents are inevitable. These cases can be complex: liability often depends on whether the driver was logged in, carrying passengers, or off duty. At Reynaldo Diaz Accident Injury Attorney PC, Mr. Diaz uses his decades of experience to help you protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome for your situation.
Explore your options for fair compensation
Rideshare accidents occur when vehicles operating for companies like Uber or Lyft are involved in collisions, whether you’re a passenger, another driver, or even a pedestrian. Because these companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, determining liability can be complicated. Liability may depend on whether the driver was using the app, waiting for a passenger, or actively on a trip. Each situation requires a careful review of the insurance coverage and legal framework in place at the time of the crash.
Here’s a look at how insurance policies shift based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
- Offline (not logged into the app): When the rideshare driver is completely offline, only their personal auto insurance applies. The rideshare company provides no coverage, meaning claims must go through the driver’s private insurance policy.
- App on, no ride accepted: Once the driver activates the rideshare app but hasn’t accepted a ride, limited liability coverage applies. This typically includes up to $50,000 per injured person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Ride accepted or passenger in the vehicle: From the moment a driver accepts a trip until the passenger exits, full commercial coverage applies. That’s $1 million in third-party liability coverage and $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Common reasons for rideshare accidents:
- Driving while distracted by navigation or apps
- Speeding to complete more trips in less time
- Fatigue from long driving hours or multiple shifts
- Inexperience with local San Antonio roadways
- Poor vehicle maintenance or tire neglect
- Impaired or reckless driving behavior
- Sudden traffic congestion or unsafe lane changes
- Passenger distractions while the vehicle is in motion
- Unfamiliar pickup or drop-off locations causing confusion
Why call a rideshare accident attorney
After a rideshare accident, you may find yourself facing confusing insurance policies, multiple liable parties, and a complicated claims process. Uber and Lyft accidents don’t follow the same rules as typical car crashes: liability depends on whether the driver was logged in, waiting for a passenger, or completing a trip. These details affect which insurance applies and the amount of coverage available. Having an experienced attorney helps ensure you don’t get lost in the details or pressured into an unfair settlement.
A rideshare accident lawyer can offer guidance when it matters most by helping you:
- Identify which insurance policy applies
- Determine who bears liability: the driver, the company, or third parties
- Gather critical evidence to support your claim
- Evaluate the full value of your injuries and losses
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Pursue fair compensation through negotiation or trial
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Types of compensation available
When you’re injured in a rideshare accident, the financial and emotional toll can be extensive. Texas law allows you to seek compensation for various forms of loss, depending on your situation. Below are the main categories of damages that may apply.
Medical expenses
This covers emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, diagnostic tests, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care related to your injuries. It may also include costs for prescriptions, medical devices, and ongoing physical therapy necessary for your recovery.
Lost wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for missed income, including overtime, bonuses, and benefits. This type of compensation ensures you don’t suffer financially while you take the time needed to heal properly.
Loss of earning capacity
When an accident leaves lasting effects that limit your ability to work or pursue your career, you may be entitled to future income compensation. This considers your age, occupation, skills, and potential career advancement opportunities that may be lost due to injury.
Property damage
This compensates you for repairs or replacement of your vehicle, phone, or other belongings damaged in the collision. It may also cover rental car expenses and the cost of replacing essential items that were lost or destroyed in the accident.
Pain and suffering
This type of compensation addresses the physical pain, trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by your injuries. It considers factors such as chronic discomfort, anxiety, depression, and the long-term emotional impact the accident has on your daily life.
Punitive damages
Punitive damages are rare but may be awarded when the at-fault party’s actions were reckless, malicious, or intentional. Their purpose is not just to compensate you but to punish wrongful behavior and discourage similar negligence in the future.
Why choose Reynaldo L Diaz Jr after rideshare accidents?
Reynaldo L Diaz Jr is a trusted San Antonio personal injury car accident attorney with over three decades of experience representing injured Texans. He understands the complexities of rideshare accidents and how insurance coverage can change based on the driver’s status. Mr. Diaz approaches every case with focus, preparation, and care, not theatrics, ensuring your case receives the full attention it deserves. When you’re overwhelmed after a serious crash, he offers steady guidance. Schedule your consultation today to discuss your rideshare accident claim.
