Filing a rideshare accident claim can overwhelm an injured victim, especially when you’re stuck going back and forth between the rideshare company and the driver’s personal insurance provider. These cases can get complicated fast, with each side trying to shift blame and avoid paying for your losses.
At Lowe Law, our Pearland rideshare accident lawyers know how stressful this process can be, which is why we’re here to step in and handle it for you. Our lawyers have recovered millions for our clients, and we know what it takes to hold rideshare companies and their insurers accountable.
Whether you were a rideshare passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, our personal injury lawyers in Pearland can help you understand your options. Call us for a free consultation today.
Why Choose Our Rideshare Accident Attorneys in Pearland?
At Lowe Law, we speak from a standpoint of justice and fight aggressively to get results for our clients. Since we were founded in 2016, our team has used decades of combined experience to recover millions for accident victims just like you. We understand how challenging it can be to face large rideshare companies and insurance providers on your own, which is why we put the client first.
We believe communication is the cornerstone of trust. Our Pearland rideshare accident attorneys make it a priority to listen to your story and make you feel like part of a family every step of the way.
When big corporations, such as multi-million-dollar rideshare companies, and their insurers attempt to deny your claim, we take a stand for you. Our attorneys are aggressive trial lawyers, ready to push your case to court if that’s what it takes to recover what you deserve. We don’t settle for less than what’s fair, and we’ll work tirelessly to hold rideshare companies accountable for their negligence.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Proving liability in a rideshare accident is complicated, as multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances. Our attorneys have extensive experience investigating such cases and determining what caused the accident and who contributed to it.
The Rideshare Driver
The rideshare driver may bear responsibility for negligent behavior that leads to or contributes to your collision, such as failing to follow traffic laws.
The rideshare driver’s personal insurance policy may apply, depending on whether they were logged into the rideshare app or actively transporting passengers.
The Rideshare Company
Rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft, carry commercial insurance policies to cover accidents involving their drivers. These policies are typically activated if the driver was logged into the app and was either waiting for a ride request or actively transporting a passenger at the time of the crash.
These companies work to limit their liability by arguing that their drivers are independent contractors, not employees, which can complicate claims. They may also argue about the driver’s status at the time of the crash to shift responsibility to the driver, arguing that you have to file through their driver’s personal auto insurance policy.
Another Motorist or Third Party
As with an auto accident, multiple vehicles or parties can factor into an injury claim. For example, a distracted third-party driver may contribute to a three-car pileup. Additionally, other third parties, such as government entities or maintenance providers, might share liability if a mechanical defect or improper road maintenance contributed to the crash.
Why Having a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Is Important
Most rideshare companies, like Uber and Lyft, offer different levels of insurance depending on the status of their drivers when accidents occur. Hiring a lawyer helps when insurance companies engage in liability disputes and attempt to undervalue a claim.
Off-Duty (App is Off)
If the rideshare driver is not logged into the app at the time of the accident, the rideshare company provides no coverage. Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies, which may not be enough to cover serious injuries or property damage. Our lawyers can evaluate whether other avenues for compensation are available, especially if the driver lacks sufficient insurance.
Waiting for a Ride (App is On, No Passenger)
When a driver is logged into the rideshare app but has not yet accepted a ride request, rideshare companies typically provide limited liability coverage:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
Rideshare companies often attempt to deny or limit claims under this tier. An experienced attorney can step in to negotiate with insurers, confirm the driver’s status at the time of the accident, and ensure that the insurance company pays what you’re owed.
On the Way to Pick Up or Active Ride (Passenger in Vehicle)
Once a rideshare driver accepts a ride or is transporting a passenger, rideshare companies provide full coverage, which generally includes:
- $1 million in third-party liability insurance
- Coverage for uninsured/underinsured motorists
- Contingent collision/comprehensive coverage (if the driver’s own policy includes it)
However, even with $1 million in coverage, rideshare insurers often delay or push back on claims. A lawyer can help by gathering evidence, handling communication with the insurance company, and fighting to hold the rideshare company accountable. Working with an attorney ensures no coverage is overlooked and nothing is left on the table.
How Long Do You Have to File a Rideshare Accident Lawsuit?
Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003(a), you generally have two years from when your rideshare accident occurred to file a lawsuit. If a wrongful death occurs, the two-year period typically starts from the date of the victim’s passing as outlined in § 16.003(b). Filing on time is essential to protect your right to seek compensation.
Rideshare cases involve detailed investigations into driver status and insurance coverage, which take time to prepare. Our Pearland rideshare collision lawyers can help ensure deadlines are met while building a strong case.
Call Us for Help From Our Pearland Rideshare Accident Lawyers
Rideshare accidents can leave you dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and mounting stress. You shouldn’t have to face the process of pursuing compensation on your own. At Lowe Law, we fight aggressively to protect your rights, build your case, and hold rideshare companies and their insurers accountable.
We are here to help you every step of the way. Call us today for a free consultation and let us start working on your case.