Originally posted on https://www.stephenbabcock.com/blog/uber-lyft-accident-baton-rouge/

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have exploded in popularity as a primary means of transportation for people countrywide. These services eliminate many of the hassles found in traditional taxi services. Users hail, set their destination, and pay the driver all at the click of a button.

But what happens if you are involved in an accident while riding as a passenger with one of these ridesharing companies? The good news is that most rideshare service companies cover their drivers with large insurance policies while you are in the vehicle. The bad news is drivers and rideshare service companies also have insurance gaps which may not provide adequate compensation to you if you are hurt in an accident.

How Does Insurance Work for Uber and Lyft Passengers?

When transporting passengers, Uber and Lyft drivers must carry personal insurance policies to cover their liability in the event of a collision. Additionally, Uber and Lyft also provide $1 million in uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage if passengers or third parties are injured in a car accident.

Rideshare Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage depends on whether the Uber or Lyft driver is available for rides, unavailable for rides, or carrying passengers.

• Unavailable for Rides – If a rideshare company driver has the Uber or Lyft app turned off and is not accepting fares, they are covered by the personal insurance policy that all drivers are required to carry. The rideshare company’s insurance policy will not apply, because the driver is not working.
• Available for Rides – When an Uber or Lyft driver has the rideshare app turned on and is waiting for passengers, they are considered available for rides. The company’s insurance policy covers the driver, but under limited circumstances. The rideshare company’s insurance will not kick in until the driver’s insurance has reached his/her policy limits.
• Carrying Passengers – The rideshare company’s $1 million insurance policy will provide coverage if you are riding in an Uber or Lyft and involved in a car accident. Third parties, such as pedestrians or bicyclists are also covered under the policy.

Lyft’s Insurance Coverage

Additionally, Lyft maintains a contingent liability policy for accidents and injuries. The contingent policy includes $50,000 for bodily injuries per person, up to $25,000 for property damage, and up to $100,000 for injuries per accident.

If the Lyft driver is involved in an accident while the app is turned on, Lyft has $1 million in insurance coverage for damages caused by the driver, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage up to $1 million per accident. The Lyft driver may be responsible for a deductible of $2,500.

If the Lyft driver is not at fault and the other driver does not have adequate insurance coverage, Lyft provides additional uninsured motorist coverage to protect the driver and passenger for up to $1 million.

Uber’s Insurance Coverage

Similar to Lyft, Uber maintains a contingent liability coverage that can be used in the event of an accident. The contingent policy includes $50,000 for bodily injuries per person, up to $25,000 for property damage, and up to $100,000 for injuries per accident.

If the driver has the Uber app turned on and is carrying a passenger, Uber’s insurance coverage is in effect. This includes $1 million in third-party liability and $1 million in uninsured and underinsured coverage.

Lastly, if the Uber vehicle is an UberBLACK, UberSUV, or UberTAXI, there may be additional protection available for the driver and passengers.

What If I’m Hurt in an Uber Accident?

If you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, and you are involved in a serious injury accident, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately.

If possible, collect as much information while you are at the scene, including photos of the wreck, the name and contact information of any witnesses, and other relevant information that may be helpful if you have to file an injury claim.

Be sure to consult with an attorney before you speak with the rideshare company or its representatives about the accident.

Hurt in an Accident in an Uber or Lyft? We Can Help

Taking on a large rideshare company can be daunting, but Babcock Partners can help guide you through the legal process. We have the resources and experience to handle your case the right way, right from the start. When you call us, our experienced Baton Rouge car accident lawyers will explain your legal options and will work hard to seek the compensation that you deserve.

Get Even. Call Stephen. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with us by calling us by filling out a contact form on our site, or by chatting with us live today.