Rideshare Accident Lawyer: Protecting Victims of Uber and Lyft Crashes

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed the way Texans commute, but accidents involving rideshare vehicles can be complicated and stressful. At Allbee Law Firm, we’re here to help you understand what to do after a rideshare accident, file your claim, and see why hiring a rideshare accident lawyer makes all the difference. Our experienced attorneys handle communications with rideshare companies, insurers, and medical providers so you can focus on healing.

Call (972) 848-4848 for a free consultation, and let our rideshare accident attorneys guide you through every step of the process.

Understanding Rideshare Accidents and Your Rights

What Is a Rideshare Accident?

A rideshare accident involves a collision where a rideshare vehicle, driven by someone using the Uber or Lyft app, is involved. These accidents can occur when you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, another motorist sharing the road, or a pedestrian or cyclist struck by a rideshare driver. Unlike typical car accidents, rideshare crashes involve multiple parties and insurance policies. Rideshare accident victims may be confused about which policy applies and who to contact. We handle these complexities for you.

Why Rideshare Accident Cases Are Complicated

Rideshare accidents involve a layered insurance structure. Uber and Lyft carry substantial insurance policies for drivers who have accepted a ride or have passengers, but the driver’s personal insurance may apply if the app is not in use. Determining liability requires knowing when the driver was logged into the app and whether a ride was in progress at the time of the incident. This determines which insurance company is responsible and the amount of coverage available. Our rideshare accident attorneys understand these nuances and pursue all liable parties to secure full compensation for our clients.

How Rideshare Insurance Works in Texas

What Coverage Do Uber and Lyft Provide?

Texas law requires rideshare companies to provide liability coverage during different driving phases. When the driver is logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage: up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. This coverage is secondary to the driver’s personal auto policy.

Once the driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in third-party liability coverage. They also provide contingent comprehensive and collision coverage if the driver has similar coverage on their personal policy. During this phase, the rideshare company’s policy is primary. These policies cover passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians injured in the accident.

Why Understanding Insurance Phases Matters

Knowing which phase applies at the time of the accident helps determine the amount of compensation available. For example:

• • App on, no ride request – The driver’s personal insurance is primary; the rideshare company’s contingent policy kicks in only if the driver’s policy doesn’t cover all damages.
  • Accepted ride or passenger on board – Uber or Lyft provides up to $1 million in liability coverage. Passengers and third parties benefit from this coverage.
  • App off – The rideshare driver is considered an ordinary driver; only their personal insurance applies.

Our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers review the app status, trip records, and insurance policies to ensure the correct coverage is applied. We communicate with both insurers and rideshare companies so you don’t have to navigate the process alone.

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Determining Fault in Rideshare Crashes

Liability in rideshare accidents can extend beyond the rideshare driver. Parties that may be responsible include:

• • Rideshare driver – If they were distracted, speeding, intoxicated, or violated traffic laws, they are liable for the accident.
  • Other motorists – A negligent driver who hits an Uber or Lyft vehicle may be responsible, even if the rideshare driver was careful.
  • Rideshare companies – Uber and Lyft may be liable if they failed to screen or train drivers properly, or if a technical issue with the app contributed to the crash.
  • Vehicle manufacturers – If a mechanical failure (such as brake failure) caused the accident, the manufacturer could be liable.

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our rideshare attorneys collect evidence such as trip logs, dashcam footage, and witness statements to prove fault and minimize comparative negligence claims.

Rideshare Drivers and Employment Status

Rideshare drivers are typically classified as independent contractors, rather than employees. This classification can limit rideshare companies’ liability. However, under Texas law, Uber and Lyft are still required to maintain $1 million liability coverage and ensure that drivers meet requirements such as having insurance and valid licenses. We understand how to argue for company liability when appropriate, especially if the rideshare company’s policies or practices contributed to the accident.

Types of Rideshare Accidents

Passenger-Involved Accidents

Passengers in rideshare vehicles are uniquely vulnerable because they have no control over the vehicle they are riding in. Accidents may occur due to driver distraction, fatigue, speeding, or intoxication. After a crash, passengers may be unsure whether to file a claim against the driver’s personal policy or the rideshare company’s policy. We determine which policy applies and ensure that you receive the full compensation you are entitled to.

Collisions With Other Vehicles

If you’re driving your own vehicle and a rideshare driver hits you, liability may depend on whether the driver was on duty at the time of the accident. If the rideshare driver was using the Uber or Lyft app, their contingent or primary policy may cover your damages. We handle communications with the rideshare company and the driver’s insurer to pursue compensation for your medical bills, vehicle repair, and lost wages.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Accidents

Rideshare drivers often navigate busy city streets, increasing the risk of hitting pedestrians or cyclists. These accidents can be particularly severe because pedestrians and cyclists usually lack adequate protection. We work to prove the driver’s negligence—such as failing to yield or being distracted—and ensure that the rideshare company’s insurance applies.

Accidents Caused by Other Drivers

Sometimes, an Uber or Lyft vehicle is involved in an accident with another driver. In these cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance is typically responsible. However, if that driver is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company’s policy may provide coverage. We analyze all possible insurance sources to maximize recovery.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

Immediate Steps to Protect Your Health and Claim

Taking the right steps after a rideshare accident protects your wellbeing and preserves evidence:

• • Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance. An official police report helps establish fault.
  • Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, see a doctor. Some injuries appear later.
  • Gather information – Obtain the rideshare driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle license plate number. Note whether they were using the Uber or Lyft app.
  • Document the scene – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
  • Obtain witness statements – Collect names and contact information of anyone who saw the crash.
  • Report the accident to the rideshare company – Use the app to report the crash. Do not provide detailed statements or accept any quick offers without legal advice.
  • Contact a rideshare accident attorney – We handle all communication with insurers and rideshare companies, protect your claim, and advise you on next steps.

What Not to Do After a Rideshare Accident

Avoid these common mistakes:

• • Don’t admit fault – Let investigators determine liability. Statements made at the scene can be used against you.
  • Don’t negotiate directly with rideshare companies – They may offer a quick settlement that doesn’t cover long-term costs.
  • Don’t sign any documents – Releases or settlement agreements can bar future claims.
  • Don’t delay medical treatment – Prompt care documents injuries and connects them to the accident, which is vital for your claim.
  • Don’t post about the accident – Insurers can use social media posts to dispute your claim.

Our experienced rideshare accident lawyers ensure your rights are protected and help you avoid missteps that could harm your case.