For many people, having access to rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft is one of the great conveniences of 21st-century life. However, being involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle can raise challenging questions about liability. Who is responsible for losses such as medical expenses, lost income, and other accident-related consequences if a rideshare driver causes a crash? The answer depends on whether the driver was logged into the app at the time of the accident, whether they were en route to pick someone up, and whether they had a passenger in the vehicle.
If the Driver Was Not Logged into the App
If a rideshare driver causes an accident while they are not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance policy should cover damages, as the rideshare company’s insurance will not apply. In this scenario, the process of seeking compensation is similar to that of any other car accident. The injured party would file a claim with the at-fault driver’s personal insurance company.
If the Driver Was Logged into the App
When the driver for a rideshare company is logged into the app, the situation becomes more complex. Both Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the level of coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
If the rideshare driver is logged in and awaiting a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide third-party liability coverage up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage if the rideshare driver’s own coverage doesn’t apply or if the losses exceed the rideshare driver’s policy limits.
If the driver is on the way to pick up a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle, both companies provide $1 million in third-party liability coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage, and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage.
Compensation Available for Accidents Involving Uber and Lyft Drivers
Individuals injured in accidents caused by rideshare drivers may be entitled to compensation for various losses, including:
- Current medical expenses, including emergency medical services, doctor’s appointments, diagnostic scans, surgical procedures, physical therapy, medication, and ongoing medical and in-home assistance
- Future medical expenses, if long-term care is required
- Lost income from the work time your injuries have forced you to miss
- Loss of earning capacity if you cn’t return to your previous job because of a permanent disability
- Physical and psychological pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
The compensation available will depend on the circumstances of the accident and how serious your injuries are. A knowledgeable New Mexico personal injury attorney can give you an informed estimate of what your case might be worth.
Deadline for a Rideshare Accident Lawsuit in New Mexico
New Mexico law allows accident victims to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party within three years of sustaining their injuries. If you fail to initiate legal action in a timely manner, you may be barred from recovering the compensation you deserve. Enlisting the services of a knowledgeable New Mexico car accident attorney can help you ensure that you do not miss any important deadlines in your claim.
Contact a Santa Fe Rideshare Accident Attorney
Suffering injuries and emotional trauma in a rideshare accident can turn your life upside-down. Many people feel lost and alone in the aftermath of a crash, but it is crucial to remember that you have options to build a brighter future. The experienced rideshare accident lawyers at Hunt Law Firm have successfully recovered compensation for injured individuals in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Let us put our knowledge and skills to work for you. Contact us today for a free consultation with a personal injury attorney in Santa Fe.