Uber and Lyft have changed the way people travel, but when an accident involves a rideshare vehicle, determining who is responsible can be far more complicated than in a standard car accident. These cases often involve multiple insurance policies, corporate entities, and disputed facts about what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.
At Mallon and Tranger, we represent accident victims across New Jersey who were injured in Uber or Lyft accidents. Whether you were a rideshare passenger, another driver, a pedestrian, or a cyclist, understanding how liability works is critical to recovering compensation.
One of the most important factors in a rideshare accident case is whether the Uber or Lyft driver was actively using the app at the time of the crash. Rideshare companies divide driver activity into different periods, and insurance coverage depends heavily on which period applies.
Generally, rideshare driver status falls into one of the following categories:
Each of these situations triggers different insurance coverage and affects who may be held financially responsible.
If an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident while not logged into the app, the situation is treated much like a regular car accident. In these cases, the driver’s personal auto insurance typically applies, and the rideshare company is usually not involved.
However, personal insurance policies sometimes exclude coverage when a vehicle is used for commercial purposes. This can lead to disputes with insurers, making legal representation especially important.
When a driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage. This coverage is designed to apply if the driver’s personal insurance does not fully cover the accident.
These situations often lead to disagreements between insurers about which policy applies and how much coverage is available. Accident victims may face delays or denials if these issues are not handled properly.
The highest level of insurance coverage applies when a rideshare driver has accepted a ride or is actively transporting a passenger. During this period, Uber and Lyft typically provide significant liability coverage intended to protect passengers and others injured in an accident.
This coverage can be critical in cases involving serious injuries, as medical expenses and lost income can quickly exceed the limits of a driver’s personal policy.
Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be held responsible for an Uber or Lyft accident. Identifying all potentially liable parties is essential to pursuing full compensation.
Liable parties may include:
Determining liability requires a careful review of insurance policies, app data, and accident evidence.
Rideshare companies and insurers often work to limit their financial exposure. Victims may encounter delayed responses, confusing coverage explanations, or pressure to accept quick settlements that do not reflect the true value of their injuries.
Additionally, rideshare companies typically classify drivers as independent contractors, which they argue limits corporate responsibility. These defenses can make claims more complex than standard auto accident cases.
If you are injured in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights. Even if the accident seems minor, injuries may worsen over time.
Important steps to take include:
These actions can help preserve evidence and strengthen your claim.
Rideshare accident claims require a detailed understanding of insurance coverage and liability rules. At Mallon and Tranger, we know how Uber and Lyft claims are handled and how to counter tactics used to minimize payouts.
Our attorneys work with injured clients throughout New Jersey to identify responsible parties and pursue full compensation. If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, Mallon and Tranger is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can protect your rights and your recovery.
