Wylie, Texas Rideshare Accident Lawyer

When an Uber or Lyft driver causes a car accident, it may be confusing to determine who is liable for any resulting damages, as both the rideshare service and the driver's insurance company may try to avoid responsibility. Knowing what coverage applies is critical for protecting your interests after a bad accident. For legal help, turn to a Wylie, TX rideshare accident attorney.

If you need assistance from a highly experienced law firm, contact Jerry D. Andrews, P.C. today. We have over 30 years of experience, so you can trust us to navigate your claim and handle the required paperwork on your behalf.

When Is a Rideshare Driver Liable for an Accident?

Rideshare drivers owe the same duty of care to other motorists, passengers, and pedestrians that any driver on the road owes. A rideshare driver can be held liable for an accident caused by speeding, distracted driving, tailgating, failing to yield the right of way, or other negligent acts.

Since rideshare drivers often glance at a phone app to accept rides, follow navigation prompts, or locate a pickup address, distraction is a common factor in these crashes. Our firm can revisit the scene of the accident and look for evidence to show that the Uber or Lyft driver was at fault.

Do Rideshare Apps Provide Coverage in Case of an Accident in Texas?

Rideshare companies operating in Texas are required to carry insurance coverage for accidents involving their drivers, though the amount of coverage available depends on the driver's status within the app at the time of the crash. When a driver is offline, the driver's personal auto insurance typically applies. When a driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, a limited liability policy from the rideshare company may apply, often with lower coverage limits than the policy that applies once a ride is accepted.

Once a driver accepts a ride request and until the passenger is dropped off, rideshare companies generally provide a much higher level of coverage, which can include liability coverage, uninsured motorist coverage, and coverage for the vehicle itself. These coverage tiers can shift the responsible party and the available compensation, so identifying the driver's exact status at the time of the crash is an important part of any rideshare accident claim.