Figuring out what to do after an accident is already confusing enough on its own. But when you add a ridesharing service into the equation, one of those areas where insurance doesn’t work as straightforward as you may think, it can be downright frustrating trying to figure out what to do.

That’s why we believe it is always a good idea to hire an Austin rideshare lawyer when you’re involved in an accident of this sort in our city. But don’t just take out word for it. We’ll show you how liability works in a rideshare accident, why they can be so complicated, and what a rideshare attorney can do to make the experience a thousand times easier on you.

Who is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Asking who is liable in a rideshare accident is a bit of a misleading question because the answer is that liability in a rideshare accident works just the same as it does in any accident: the party whose carelessness caused the collision is the one at fault.

There are two big issues that are largely responsible for making rideshare accidents so complicated. The first is the number of factors that go into a rideshare accident, which is something that we’ll be looking at in more detail shortly.

But the issue, as far as liability is concerned, is determining the proper insurance companies involved. Accident coverage differs between ridesharing services and it can even differ between drivers working for the same service. Typically, in a ridesharing accident, you’ll work with one of the four following policies:

  • Liability Coverage from the Company: The bigger rideshare organizations like Uber and Lyft offer limited liability coverage for their drivers. But these are quite difficult to sort through because there are a lot of catches. For example, coverage typically doesn’t start until the driver is logged onto their service. Furthermore, this coverage can then change depending on whether the driver has a passenger in the vehicle or not. However, even in cases where the driver was clearly at work, there will be teams of employees working to lower or dismiss your claim and so this type of coverage can be quite difficult to get compensation from.
  • Driver Rideshare Insurance: There are insurance companies which offer insurance specifically for rideshare drivers. This type of coverage goes a long way towards helping people get compensated when compared to or paired with liability coverage from the company.
  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Many rideshares are required to offer Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage to their passengers.
  • Individual Insurance: In some cases, the only insurance you will be able to work with is the driver’s individual insurance. A good example of this is when you are struck by a rideshare driver who is not currently working and so the accident is not covered by any type of rideshare insurance.

Why Are Rideshare Accidents so Complicated?

There are quite a few things that make a rideshare accident more complicated than you might have imagined. To begin with, there are all those factors which go into any accident and that can overly complicate them such as confusing timelines, counterdictive witness testimony, and the like.

But factors which are unique to rideshare accidents that make them even more complicated include:

  • The Company Involved: Because there is a company involved in a rideshare accident, there is more paperwork to sort through. Each company is going to have its own policies that you’ll have to sort through to find out what coverage they offer, when it’s offered, and how much it covers.
  • Figuring Out the Right Insurance: As we discussed above, there can be a number of different insurance companies involved in a ridesharing accident and it can be time-consuming to determine which are applicable in regards to your accident.
  • High-Rate of Denied Claims: There is a high-rate of denied claims when it comes to rideshare accidents because of the complicated nature of them. For example, if you send a claim through the company’s insurance and they determine the driver hadn’t turned the app on yet then it’ll be denied because he didn’t have active coverage at the moment of the accident. Ridesharing claims can also be quite expensive and so they use large teams to shut-down as many claims as they can and this is something you must contend with that can make the process highly stressful and unsuccessful.
  • The Number of Parties Involved: Because a ridesharing accident isn’t just between you and a driver but rather between you, a driver, and the ridesharing company, it can be tricky to determine who needs to be asked for what information. Remember, too, that this confusion helps the company to avoid claims easier because the higher chance of the wrong party being targeted.

What Can a Rideshare Attorney Do for Me?

So should you hire an Austin lawyer for your rideshare accident?

Yes.

And here’s why:

  • They’re Ready to Fight: Rideshare companies have teams that are ready to fight against your claim. Why should you go against that alone? A rideshare lawyer will fight at your side to see that you get the compensation you deserve.
  • They have the Experience: The big thing with rideshare accidents is the extra paperwork and logistics that need to be sorted out. An experienced attorney already knows what to expect and can teach you along the way.
  • They Offer Support: It’s frustrating to face a big company alone, especially when they’re standing between you and the money you need to cover the injuries they gave you. A good lawyer understands your frustration and will work to ensure you see justice.

Where can I Speak with an Austin Rideshare Lawyer?

You can speak with one of our experienced Austin rideshare lawyers by calling (512) 265-5291. We’re looking forward to hearing all about your accident so we can help you get the justice you are owed. We’re able to help you with your questions and concerns, so you can feel supported throughout this frustrating process. With Barry Deacon Law on your side, you’ll have an ally you can trust to back you up no matter what is thrown at you.