Ridesharing has become a convenient part of everyday life. Whether you’re heading home from the airport, commuting to work, or enjoying a night out, companies like Uber and Lyft have changed how we travel.
But with the rise of rideshare services comes an increase in related accidents—and determining who’s responsible isn’t always simple. After a crash, many people are unsure of their next steps or when to seek legal help.
That’s where experienced rideshare accident lawyers at Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC can make all the difference, guiding victims through the complex process of filing a claim and securing fair compensation.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents differ from traditional car crashes in one major way: multiple parties and insurance policies are often involved. In addition to the drivers themselves, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have their own insurance coverage that may or may not apply, depending on the circumstances of the crash.
For example, if the driver was not logged into the rideshare app, their personal auto insurance might be responsible. But if they were actively transporting a passenger or on the way to pick one up, the rideshare company’s commercial policy could apply. Determining which insurance applies—and how much coverage is available—can quickly become complicated.
This is just one of the many reasons victims turn to legal professionals who understand the unique challenges of rideshare cases.
- You Were Seriously Injured
If you sustained serious or long-term injuries in a rideshare accident, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. Medical expenses, physical therapy, lost wages, and future treatment costs can quickly add up. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or push low settlements before victims know the full extent of their injuries.
A lawyer can help you calculate the true value of your claim, taking into account both current and future damages. They can also handle all communication with insurance adjusters, ensuring that your rights are protected while you focus on recovery.
- Liability Is Unclear
Rideshare accidents can involve multiple drivers, pedestrians, or even cyclists—and it’s not always obvious who’s at fault. Was it the rideshare driver, another vehicle, or both? Did a mechanical issue or poor road condition contribute?
Establishing fault and liability is one of the most challenging parts of these cases. Attorneys can investigate the accident by gathering police reports, app data, dashcam footage, and witness statements. They can also work with experts in accident reconstruction to determine exactly what happened and who should be held accountable.
- The Insurance Process Is Confusing
Rideshare companies have layered insurance structures that change depending on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident. For example:
- App off: The driver’s personal insurance applies.
- App on, no passenger: The rideshare company provides limited liability coverage.
- App on, passenger onboard: The rideshare company’s full commercial policy is in effect.
Understanding which policy applies—and how to file a claim under it—isn’t easy for most people. Rideshare accident lawyers are familiar with these distinctions and can make sure you file against the correct insurer and pursue every available source of compensation.
- You’re Facing Pressure to Settle Quickly
Insurance companies often move fast after a rideshare accident, offering quick settlements to close the case. While that might seem convenient, these early offers are almost always far less than what victims truly deserve. Once you accept, you can’t go back and ask for more—no matter how high your medical bills become.
An attorney will review any settlement offers, negotiate on your behalf, and make sure you don’t sign away your rights prematurely. They’ll fight for a fair resolution that reflects the full scope of your losses.
Key Takeaways
- Rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties and complex insurance policies.
- Hire a lawyer if you’ve suffered serious injuries or if fault isn’t clear.
- Insurance coverage changes depending on whether the driver was logged into the app.
- Quick settlements from insurers are rarely fair—an attorney can negotiate better terms.
- Rideshare accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and maximize your compensation.
