Have you ever thought about the possibility of getting into a car accident with a rideshare vehicle? Whether you are a passenger or another motorist who is hit by one of these cars or trucks, the insurance claim process is different from that of other accidents. Knowing which steps to take after an Uber or Lyft accident can clear the path for pursuing compensation.

Who Should I Call First After a Rideshare Accident?

Call 911, even if there are no obvious injuries. Police can document the incident, which can serve as useful evidence. If you do not require an ambulance transport to a hospital, follow up with a medical provider later that day or the next day. If you are injured, that can establish a link between the crash and injuries.

Also, be sure to collect contact information from all parties involved, including rideshare drivers, other motorists, and witnesses. Document the scene with photographs of the vehicles, roadway, and any injuries. If you were a passenger, try to take a screenshot of your ride information in the Uber or Lyft app.

Do I Need to Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft?

Reporting the accident through the rideshare app is recommended. Uber and Lyft have an accident reporting option within their platforms. The company may begin an internal claims process after receiving the report; its insurance provider may contact you directly.

Keep in mind that communicating with the rideshare company should be done carefully: Avoid giving detailed statements without legal guidance. Anything submitted may be reviewed by insurance representatives or used in evaluating claims.

What Kind of Insurance Coverage Might Apply?

Here is how rideshare insurance coverage typically works:

App is Off (Driver is Offline):

• No coverage is provided by Uber or Lyft
• The driver’s personal auto insurance applies

App is On, Driver is Waiting for a Ride Request:

• Third-party liability coverage applies if the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the accident
• $50,000 for bodily injury per person
• $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage per accident

Driver is En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or Is Transporting a Passenger:

• $1 million in third-party liability coverage
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage
• Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage
• Up to the actual cash value of the driver’s vehicle, minus a deductible
• Applies only if the driver carries comprehensive and collision coverage on their personal policy

Coverage limits and specific terms depend on state regulations and individual circumstances. In some cases, personal auto insurance or the policy of another driver involved in the crash may also be relevant. Sorting through which insurer holds responsibility can be time-consuming, particularly when multiple parties are involved.

Should I Speak With an Insurance Company Without Representation?

Communicating with insurance adjusters can be difficult, especially when several parties are involved. Statements made early in the process may affect how compensation is calculated or whether a claim is accepted.

Insurance companies may reach out quickly after an accident. While cooperation is sometimes necessary, it is wise to avoid accepting fault, making assumptions, or agreeing to a settlement without first receiving legal guidance. Providing written or recorded statements without legal guidance can jeopardize your claim.

Contact a Fayetteville Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm for Legal Help After a Rideshare Crash

A Fayetteville Uber and Lyft accident lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm supports individuals involved in Uber or Lyft accidents. Whether you were a passenger, a driver, or affected by a rideshare vehicle in another way, you may be entitled to seek compensation. For a free consultation, call 479-443-8080 or submit the online form. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.