Rideshare crashes continue to raise unique liability questions

From tiered insurance policies to the involvement of multiple parties, these are factors in rideshare accidents that can raise unique liability questions. The driver’s status in their rideshare app can complicate things further. 

Understanding rideshare liability is critical for all passengers, considering the statistics about driver behaviors. Data intelligence platform Gitnux notes that 58% of surveyed rideshare drivers reported having at least one near miss. Sixty percent also say they check their apps with their vehicle in motion, meaning they drive distractedly.

What Are the Main Causes of Rideshare Accidents? 

Distracted driving is a common culprit behind rideshare accidents and a leading cause of injuries in traffic incidents. In 2024 alone, this risky driving behavior led to 315,167 people sustaining injuries, says the NHTSA.

Rideshare drivers can be particularly at risk for driving distractions due to constant use of:

• Rideshare apps (e.g., to accept new ride requests)
• Navigation apps (e.g., to track GPS routes and passenger pickup and drop-off points)
• Communication devices (e.g., to text or call passengers) 

Fatigued driving also leads to rideshare accident claims. Taking long shifts or driving at night can contribute to this issue, as tiredness can lead to slower reaction times and lapses in focus.

What Happens if You’re in an Uber and It Crashes?  

If your rideshare service gets involved in a road accident, the first thing that should happen is for you to check yourself (and then others) for injuries. If there’s anyone injured, call 911. Ask the operator for the police to come, too. 

Depending on who’s liable, you, the passenger, should be able to make a claim against their insurance policy. 

It may be wise, however, to consult a law firm’s personal injury attorneys, particularly if complex rideshare legal challenges surround the incident. In many cases, you can get a free, non-obligatory initial consultation to learn more about the firm and their services. 

During the consultation, you’ll learn how the firm can help you. You can also use this as a chance to ask any pertinent rideshare insurance questions you may have.

What Intricate Liability Issues Surround Rideshare Accidents? 

Intricate legal issues in rideshare incidents often arise due to tiered insurance policies. The coverage that kicks in and its limits change depending on the specific status of the rideshare driver at the time of the crash.

If the driver is offline and they caused the crash, the rideshare company is unlikely to provide coverage. Instead, the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. 

If the driver was online, had a valid ride request, and the rider was inside the vehicle at the time of the crash, the rideshare company’s insurance coverage should kick in. Insurers, however, may dispute this, particularly if the driver or rider can’t prove these factors. 

Another element that could make a rideshare accident more complex is if it involves a multi-share crash. In this scenario, multiple parties may be liable, with each disputing their fault. 

Get Legal Help for a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare accidents are often more complicated than other crashes, due to factors like tiered insurance policies, liable parties, and app statuses. If you were in a crash during a rideshare drive, consider these complexities and bring them to a lawyer for review.

Stay updated on the latest breaking news, wellness, and lifestyle advice by checking out our most recent updates.