In New York City, rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are a new part of the transportation world. From Brooklyn to Manhattan, for many riders hopping in and out of rideshare vehicles is part of our daily commuter and late-night travel lives. However, after a rideshare accident, the fallout is often more complex than your typical automobile accident. Knowing how insurance coverage works when it comes to rideshare accidents is crucial to protect your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve!
Why Insurance in Rideshare Accidents Is Complicated
Unlike traditional car accidents, liability in Uber and Lyft crashes depends on the driver's status in the app at the time of the collision. Whether the driver is waiting for a ride request, on the way to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting someone will determine which insurance policy applies. Because these distinctions can significantly change the coverage available, it is not always clear who will pay for injuries, lost wages, or property damage without careful legal review.
Insurance Coverage When the Driver Has the App On
If a driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, their personal auto insurance is often considered the primary coverage. However, many policies exclude accidents that occur while a vehicle is being used for commercial purposes. Uber and Lyft provide limited contingent liability coverage during this period to address this. This can create challenges for injured victims, as the available coverage may not be enough to cover serious injuries in a busy city like New York.
Coverage Once a Ride Is Accepted or In Progress
Once a driver accepts a ride request or transports a passenger, rideshare companies provide far more substantial protection. Uber and Lyft carry policies that include up to $1.25 million in coverage for bodily injury and property damage in New York. This higher level of insurance reflects the increased responsibility rideshare companies have when passengers are in the vehicle or when the driver is actively working on behalf of the platform.
Why Accident Timing Matters
The time of the accident is frequently relevant in deciding which insurance applies. For example, a pedestrian struck by an Uber driver on the way to a pickup may be entitled to very different coverage than a pedestrian struck by a driver who was logged in but waiting for a ride request. This can create some fighting between insurance companies, leaving victims stuck in the middle. An attorney who knows how to navigate these layers of coverage is critical in resisting delays or denials.
What Injured Victims Should Do After a Rideshare Crash
After an accident with an Uber or Lyft vehicle, the steps you take can affect the outcome of your claim. Seeking medical care immediately is critical, even if injuries seem minor. Documentation is also key—accident reports, photographs of the scene, witness statements, and rideshare app details can strengthen your case. Because liability often involves multiple parties, consulting with a lawyer experienced in rideshare accidents can make the difference between a denied claim and fair compensation.
How Ajlouny Injury Law Can Help
Ajlouny Injury Law knows how to handle complex rideshare accident cases in New York City, and has recovered compensation for clients with life-altering injuries. Our team has a firm understanding of how to navigate the various insurance layers unique to Uber and Lyft. Our contingency fee means victims owe nothing unless the firm obtains a recovery, allowing victims to pursue the justice they deserve without any financial risk.
Ajlouny Injury Law is Here For You
Rideshare services can make transportation easier, but there is nothing easy about an accident involving Uber and Lyft. There are multiple layers of insurance coverage that will depend on whether or not the rider is logged into the app. As a result, it is important to have a knowledgeable advocate to help protect your rights. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident in New York, Ajlouny Injury Law can help you protect your rights and secure the maximum compensation for your injuries.
