Who Is Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
The driver who caused a rideshare accident is usually held liable, and Uber or Lyft’s insurance may pay for the damages depending on whether the driver was using the app at the time. Other parties, including vehicle manufacturers and government agencies, may also share responsibility.
If you were involved in a rideshare accident, contact our New Haven Uber accident attorneys to file a claim. Scheduled your free, no obligation case review today.
Parties Who May Share Responsibility for a Rideshare Crash
Rideshare accidents often involve more parties than a typical car crash. Along with the drivers themselves, a rideshare company, its insurer, and outside businesses or agencies may play a role in how the collision happened or who pays for the losses.
Depending on the circumstances, responsibility may fall on one or more of the following:
- The Rideshare Driver: A driver who speeds, drives distracted, or breaks traffic laws can be held responsible for your injuries. Which insurance policy applies depends on their app status at the time of the crash.
- Another Motorist: When a different driver causes the collision, that driver and their insurer are responsible for your losses.
- The Rideshare Company: Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, which usually limits the companies’ direct liability. However, the company may be liable if it failed to properly screen a driver.
- A Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer: Defective brakes, tires, or airbags can cause or worsen a crash. The company that made the faulty part may be held responsible.
- A Government Entity: The state or a municipality may be liable when a dangerous road defect contributes to a crash.
How Does Uber and Lyft’s Insurance Coverage Work After a Crash?
Connecticut law requires rideshare drivers, or the companies they drive for, to carry insurance that changes based on the driver’s activity. When the driver is offline, only their personal auto policy applies. When the driver is logged in and waiting for a request, the company provides coverage of $50,000 per injured person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. From the moment the driver accepts a ride until the passenger exits the vehicle, coverage rises to $1 million per accident.
What Evidence Helps Prove Liability in a Rideshare Accident?
Because the available coverage depends on the driver’s app status, insurers often dispute which coverage period applies and who caused the crash. Strong evidence can resolve these questions and support your claim.
Useful evidence in a rideshare accident case may include:
- App and trip records showing whether the driver was logged in, en route to a pickup, or carrying a passenger
- GPS and telematics data showing the vehicle’s speed and location
- The police report and any citations issued at the scene
- Dashcam footage and nearby surveillance video
- Photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries
- Statements from passengers, bystanders, and other drivers
Get Help Sorting Out Liability After a Connecticut Rideshare Accident
Between multiple drivers, a rideshare company, and several layers of insurance, a rideshare claim can quickly become complicated. This is where Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante can help. With a trial-ready approach and the resources to take on rideshare companies and their insurers, our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys in New Haven will identify every party who may share responsibility and pursue compensation from every available source of coverage. Contact our offices today for a free, no-obligation consultation.