Baton Rouge Lyft & Uber Accident Lawyer

Rideshare Accident Liability

When a rideshare accident occurs, determining liability can be complex. While rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage, the rideshare driver’s personal liability also comes into play. 

Determining who is liable (and whose insurance will pay compensation) comes down to if the driver was negligent or reckless, if the driver was logged into the app and/or transporting a passenger, and what coverage is available from both the driver’s personal insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance. 

The Rideshare Driver’s Liability

Rideshare drivers typically have their own personal auto insurance. However, personal insurance policies often have limitations when the driver is using their vehicle for commercial purposes, such as driving for Uber or Lyft. Here’s how insurance coverage works in these situations:

• Logged Out of the App: When the driver is not logged into the rideshare app, only their personal insurance applies. If an accident occurs during this time, you may need to seek compensation through the driver’s personal insurance policy. 
• Logged In, Waiting for a Ride Request: When the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, their personal insurance may offer limited coverage. In this scenario, the rideshare company’s contingent liability coverage may also apply.
• En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or During a Ride: Once the driver has accepted a ride request or is transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s insurance typically takes over. However, the driver’s personal insurance may still play a role in covering certain damages. 

The Rideshare Company’s Liability

Rideshare companies provide liability insurance to cover accidents involving their drivers. This insurance is meant to protect passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. The coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. 

• App On, No Ride: During this period, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage, which usually includes:

• • • $50,000 per person for bodily harm
    • $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
    • $25,000 per accident for property damage
• Ride Accepted or Passenger in Vehicle: During these periods, the rideshare company’s liability insurance increases significantly, often providing up to $1,000,000 in coverage for bodily injury and property damage.  

Contact a Baton Rouge Lyft & Uber Accident Lawyer 

Gauthier Amedee understands the hardship you face after suffering an injury in an accident that wasn’t your fault. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve. Our team works on a contingency fee basis, so we only get paid when we win your case. You can rest easy knowing your case is in qualified, capable hands. Get started with a free case review today.