Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made getting around Reno easier than ever. But when an accident happens, the situation can quickly become confusing, especially when multiple parties and insurance companies are involved. Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or even a pedestrian, it’s important to know what steps to take and how to protect your rights.
We’ll break down what happens if you get into an Uber or Lyft accident in Reno, who may be liable, and how a Reno Uber accident lawyer can help you recover fair compensation.
Understanding Your Rights After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you have the same right to compensation as in any other motor vehicle collision, but the process can be more complicated. Rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This affects how insurance coverage applies and who is financially responsible for your injuries.
When an Uber or Lyft driver is logged into the app and actively transporting a passenger, both companies provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. This coverage may apply to passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers who are injured in the crash. However, if the driver is off-duty or not yet matched with a rider, the coverage may be significantly lower or fall back on the driver’s personal auto insurance.
If you were hurt, seeking prompt medical attention is essential, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Next, report the accident through the rideshare app and contact law enforcement to initiate the official accident report process. These records are key pieces of evidence for your claim.
Working with an experienced Uber accident attorney can help ensure that every step is handled correctly, from gathering documentation to negotiating with multiple insurers.
Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident — Uber, the Driver, or Another Party?
Determining who is at fault in an Uber or Lyft crash can be challenging because several parties might share responsibility. Liability often depends on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident:
- Driver not logged into the app: The driver’s personal auto insurance typically covers damages.
- The driver is logged in but waiting for a ride request: Uber and Lyft may offer limited contingent coverage if the driver’s personal policy does not apply.
- Driver en route to pick up or transporting a passenger: The company’s full commercial policy, which covers up to $1 million, may provide coverage for medical expenses, property damage, and other related losses.
Other drivers, pedestrians, or even defective vehicle parts could also contribute to the accident. That’s why a detailed investigation is essential.
An attorney familiar with Reno traffic laws and Nevada’s insurance regulations can gather evidence, review police and medical reports, and determine the most effective way to pursue compensation from the responsible party.
Can You Sue Uber if You Get in an Accident?
Generally, Uber and Lyft protect themselves from direct lawsuits by classifying drivers as independent contractors. That means you typically cannot sue Uber directly unless you can prove that the company itself acted negligently, for example, by failing to screen a driver or properly maintain safe policies.
However, you can often file a claim against Uber’s insurance policy when your injuries occur during a covered trip. The key is proving that the driver was logged into the app and actively engaged in rideshare activities at the time of the crash.
Because rideshare companies have teams of insurance adjusters and legal experts on their side, it’s wise to consult with Uber accident injury lawyers who understand how to handle these complex cases. They can identify the right party to pursue, handle communications, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
How a Reno Uber Accident Lawyer Can Help You Recover Compensation
After a rideshare accident, the financial and emotional toll can be significant. Medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering can quickly add up. A skilled Reno Uber accident lawyer plays a vital role in ensuring you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Here’s how an attorney can help:
- Investigating the accident: Collecting dashcam footage, driver app data, and witness statements to determine fault.
- Handling insurance claims: Dealing with Uber’s insurers and ensuring they don’t undervalue or deny your claim.
- Assessing damages: Calculating the full scope of your losses, including long-term medical care and reduced earning capacity.
- Negotiating settlements: Pursuing fair compensation through negotiation, and if necessary, litigation.
Your lawyer can also help you understand deadlines under Nevada law, such as the statute of limitations, and ensure all filings are submitted on time. Without experienced legal guidance, you risk accepting a low settlement or missing opportunities for recovery.
Why Choose Matt Dion & Associates as Your Reno Uber Accident Law Firm
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare crash, you need a law firm that understands both Nevada’s personal injury laws and the unique challenges of rideshare insurance claims. Matt Dion & Associates brings decades of experience representing injury victims across Reno, helping them recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today and we’ll fight to protect your rights, relieve your stress, and help you move forward with confidence after a serious accident.
