HKQ Attorneys
What You Need to Know After an Accident About Rideshare Passenger Rights
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have become more common in Pennsylvania. While they offer convenience, accidents involving rideshare vehicles can raise complicated questions about liability and insurance coverage.
As a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you are generally not at fault for the crash unless your actions caused the driver to drive dangerously. In most situations, responsibility may rest with the rideshare driver, another driver on the road, or both.
Rideshare companies provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on what the status of the driver is at the time of the accident. There are three main time periods.
If the driver is not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance applies.
If the driver is logged into the app but has no passenger, limited commercial coverage applies.
If the driver has accepted a ride or is transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide more insurance coverage.
This distinction makes documentation extremely important. Screenshots of your trip information in the app can help establish what phase the driver was in at the time of the accident.
Rideshare passengers should seek medical evaluation immediately following a crash, even if injuries seem minor. Whiplash, internal injuries, and concussions may not be immediately apparent.
Passengers should save their ride confirmation, route details, driver information, and any communication through the app. These records can help establish important facts about the incident.
Pennsylvania law allows injured passengers to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering in certain circumstances, and other damages depending on the insurance situation and severity of injuries.
Accidents involving rideshare vehicles create a legally complex environment involving corporate insurance policies and personal insurance. Understanding these layers can be critical following a crash involving rideshare.