Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft dominate transportation in cities nationwide, including Indianapolis. But if you’re hurt in a collision, does rideshare insurance coverage differ from standard accident claims? It largely depends on the liable party.
Learn more about rideshare accidents in Indiana, how to determine liability, and how a personal injury attorney may be able to help.
Possible Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Indiana
An Uber accident could occur for several reasons, including:
- Distractions: Drivers could take their eyes off the road if they eat, use their phone, or engage in other distracting activities. It’s also possible for passengers to distract them.
- Poor road conditionsInclement weather or poorly maintained roads could lead to collisions, which might necessitate the expertise of an accident lawyer.
- Reckless drivingSpeeding, tailgating, or other forms of reckless driving can lead to a dangerous collision that may require a personal injury lawyer.
- Defective auto parts: Faulty brakes or other defective parts could be the underlying cause of an accident.
How To Determine Liability in an Uber or Lyft Crash
Evidence is key for assessing driver and passenger accident liability. It’s essential to review multiple pieces of evidence to determine each party’s role in causing the injuries. Possible evidence in rideshare accidents in Indiana includes:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Vehicle maintenance reports
- Dashcam or nearby surveillance footage
- Photos from the scene
People may assume that rideshare driver negligence plays a role in every Uber or Lyft accident. It’s possible for passengers or even a third party to be liable for an accident involving a rideshare vehicle.
For example, if a passenger was actively distracting the driver and dashcam audio proves it, the passenger may be liable. Say multiple witnesses report that another driver was reckless behind the wheel and collided with the rideshare vehicle. Based on their statements, along with other evidence, the other motorist could be responsible for the accident.
Understanding Insurance Coverage for Rideshare Crashes
Perhaps you collide with an Uber or Lyft driver and ask for their insurance information. The driver may tell you to file a claim with the rideshare company instead of using their personal auto insurance. However, these companies aren’t always responsible for paying out rideshare injury claims, which is why consulting an injury lawyer is important.
The coverage depends on three key scenarios:
- When the app is inactive
- When the app is active and the driver is awaiting ride requests
- When the driver has accepted a ride request, liability coverage may come into play during an accident.
Drivers who aren’t logged into the app must rely on their personal car insurance to handle claims. Uber or Lyft’s commercial insurance policy could provide liability coverage whenever the driver is on duty. It’s important to obtain the driver’s personal insurance information in addition to details regarding their contract with the rideshare company.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about rideshare injury claims below.
What Types of Damages Can Accident Victims Claim?
An accident victim may be able to claim damages to cover their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
What If an Insurance Settlement Offer Doesn’t Cover All Damages?
Claimants don’t have to accept an initial offer from insurance companies. It may be possible to sue the liable party’s insurer or consult an accident attorney in an effort to seek fair compensation.
How Long Do Victims Have To File a Car Accident Lawsuit?
In Indiana, victims have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Consult Our Personal Injury Attorneys for Assistance With Your Accident Claim
Determining fault in rideshare accidents in Indiana can be complex and requires sufficient evidence. At Stewart & Stewart Attorneys, we handle car accident injury cases and thoroughly review the available evidence. Discuss your case with us to learn how much your claim could be worth, potentially up to 1 million dollars.
Submit our online contact form or call (317) 537-9616 to schedule a consultation.