If an accident occurs while you are riding in an Uber or Lyft, you may be wondering, what should I do? Do I have any rights? As a passenger, you have legal protections and may be eligible to pursue compensation. But, this process is not as clear as it may seem. It is helpful to understand what options you have available in order to protect yourself and move forward with confidence.

Can Passengers Sue for Injuries and Damages?

Passengers can sue for injuries and damages in an Uber or Lyft accident. Vehicle occupants are typically never considered at fault, giving you a strong legal position when seeking damages. In most cases, you can file a lawsuit against:

• The at fault driver
• Uber or Lyft
• Both parties

Since rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors, liability will usually fall on them. But, if you can prove that Uber or Lyft exhibited some form of negligence that ultimately contributed to the collision, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit against them. Some scenarios include the following:

• Failing to properly screen drivers
• Allowing drivers to operate unsafe vehicles
• Failing to address safety concerns or app issues 

You may be entitled to seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses you incurred. But, obtaining full compensation may require assistance from a legal professional, especially when you have to communicate with rideshare companies and insurance adjusters.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident as a Passenger

A rideshare collision can be overwhelming. Although it may be difficult to react quickly to such an unexpected moment, you should try your best to remain calm and consider implementing the following steps in the aftermath of the accident to ensure your safety and your ability to obtain fair compensation.

Contact Police

Safety should always be a top priority. If you are injured or notice anyone who is hurt, you should call 911 immediately to report the rideshare accident and request medical assistance.

Gather Evidence

Be sure to ask for these details from all parties involved in the rideshare accident:

• Names
• Phone numbers
• Insurance information

Do not forget to take pictures of your injuries and the accident scene. You should request a copy of the police report and your medical records to further strengthen your claim. Witness statements are also helpful when proving fault.

Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft

Access the respective rideshare app and submit a report of the crash. Uber or Lyft will review your case shortly after and investigate the situation to determine how to effectively resolve it. You should hear back from them to either:

• Confirm your report
• Ask for additional information
• Connect you with a third-party insurance claims adjuster

Seek Medical Attention

You should seek medical attention right after the Uber or Lyft accident. Even if you feel fine, some symptoms may not be immediately apparent. It is important to get yourself evaluated to check for any hidden injuries that may need prompt care. If your doctor notices anything that requires treatment, they will diagnose the condition and provide a personalized plan to help with your recovery. Such medical services will be documented and saved on file.

Consult with an Uber or Lyft Accident Lawyer

An Uber or Lyft accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and get you full and fair compensation. Rideshare accident cases typically involve multiple parties, which can further complicate matters. But, having legal guidance and support can make a significant difference.

Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage

An injured passenger may be covered by an insurance policy regardless of who caused the crash. However, the type and amount of coverage Uber and Lyft may provide will vary depending on the driver’s status at the time of the collision. 

Before Accepting a Trip

This is when the rideshare driver is online and waiting to accept a ride request. In this case, limited liability coverage will apply. This includes:

• $50,000 per individual
• $100,000 per accident for injuries
• $25,000 for property damage

After Accepting a Trip

If an accident occurs while a rideshare driver has accepted a request or is en route to pick up or drop off the passenger, both Uber and Lyft may give up to $1 million in liability coverage, along with:

• Coverage for injuries sustained in a hit-and-run accident caused by an underinsured or uninsured motorist
• Personal injury protection, like medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault
• Medical payments coverage no matter who is liable

What Compensation Can You Recover as a Passenger?

As a passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident, you can secure compensation for all medical expenses pertaining to the incident. This includes:

• ER visits
• Hospital stays
• Surgical procedures
• Therapy
• Rehabilitation
• Prescribed medication
• Future medical care, if needed

If bodily harm has prevented you from fulfilling work-related duties, you can recover the income you lost. For more serious cases, you may be able to seek compensation for loss of future earning potential if your injuries lead to long-term complications.

Pain and suffering may also be recoverable. This addresses physical pain and emotional distress. Although this is more subjective, it can greatly increase the value of your rideshare accident case, especially if you endured severe or life-altering injuries.

How a Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Help Passengers

Although Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage, obtaining fair compensation is typically not as straightforward. Insurance companies may delay, dispute, or deny claims, making the situation more difficult. A rideshare accident attorney will step in to protect your rights and advocate on your behalf to ensure you recover proper compensation.

Some benefits that come with these legal services include the following:

• Gathering evidence
• Determining liability
• Navigating insurance coverage
• Calculating the full extent of your losses
• Communicating and negotiating with insurance adjusters
• Representing you in court if your case heads to trial

The bottom line is that a rideshare accident attorney can take on every legal aspect of your case, giving you time to focus on your recovery while they try to get you the best outcome possible.

Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident? Get a FREE Consultation with West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers Today

If you were involved in an Uber or Lyft accident as a passenger, you may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover compensation. At West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers, our expert rideshare accident attorneys are readily available to seek justice on your behalf. We will navigate you through complex insurance claims, identify the at-fault party, and work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement.

To book a FREE consultation, you can connect with us by calling (213) 465-8682 or filling out our easy online contact form.