Austin Uber and Lyft Accident Attorneys

Rideshare Passengers Injured By their Negligent Driver

If you were an Uber or Lyft passenger who was injured due to the actions of your rideshare driver, you have the right to sue the Uber or Lyft driver and benefit from the rideshare companies’ extensive insurance policies if the driver’s personal policy does not fully cover your losses. Both Uber and Lyft carry $1 million insurance policies for these types of situations. 

Rideshare Passengers Injured by Another Driver

If you were a passenger in a rideshare and you suffered injuries due to the actions of another (non-Lyft or Uber) driver, you must take legal action against the responsible driver first. If the non-rideshare driver is uninsured or underinsured, Uber’s or Lyft’s policies may be able to cover some of your losses. 

Rideshare Drivers Injured by Other Drivers

If you are an Uber or Lyft driver who suffered injuries in an accident caused by another driver, you may be covered by your rideshare company’s insurance policy in certain situations. You generally have limited coverage if the rideshare app is on and you are waiting for a ride request. Additional coverage triggers when you are traveling to pick up a confirmed passenger as well as during any trip. 

You need legal advocates who are familiar with liability in these cases and how they are adjudicated in Texas courts. Our team at National Trial Law is well-versed in these matters, and we are happy to review your circumstances and walk you through your legal options. 

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

An auto accident may be the fault of a rideshare driver, a third-party driver, or some other factor, such as severe weather or hazardous road conditions. Many collisions are the result of a particular driver’s negligent failure to follow the rules of the road or otherwise operate their vehicle safely. 

Auto accidents involving Ubers and Lyfts are frequently caused by a driver:

• Speeding excessively
• Running red lights or stop signs 
• Failing to signal when turning or changing lanes
• Driving recklessly
• Driving while intoxicated
• Driving while fatigued 
• Driving while distracted (including texting while driving)

In some unfortunate scenarios, Uber and Lyft drivers may be compelled to drive faster and attempt riskier maneuvers to complete trips sooner, resulting in avoidable collisions. In other cases, an Uber or Lyft driver may practice defensive driving and do everything right yet still end up in an accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another motorist. Either way, the rideshare companies’ insurance policies tend to activate so long as the Uber or Lyft driver was seeking, traveling to, or transporting passengers.

Rideshare Accidents Injuries

Rideshare accidents can result in all manner of serious injury, including:

• Neck Injuries: Sudden deceleration or effect can cause the head to burst forward and backward, damaging soft tissue in the neck. Symptoms may not appear instantly but can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain and distress.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are another common injury in serious rideshare accidents. These can vary from concussions to more severe forms of brain damage. Head injuries could have long-term effects on cognitive function, memory, and even personality. TBIs often demand extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, making them some of the most costly injuries in terms of both time and money.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries could occur in high-impact rideshare collisions, especially if passengers are seated in positions where they are more vulnerable. Harm to the spinal cord can result in partial or full paralysis, and recovery may involve surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care. Even minor spinal injuries can result in chronic pain and mobility problems.
• Broken Bones: The impact of a rideshare accident can cause broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs. While many fractures heal over time, they may require surgery or immobilization, limiting mobility and making daily activities difficult. Some fractures may never fully heal, leaving individuals with long-term impairments.
• Internal Injuries: The force of a car accident could cause significant internal damage, such as organ damage or internal bleeding. These injuries are not always immediately apparent, so it's critical to seek medical attention following a rideshare accident. Left untreated, internal injuries can lead to life-threatening complications.
• Emotional Trauma: Accidents can have a profound psychological impact. Many rideshare accident victims suffer from emotional trauma, which includes anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Emotional trauma is just as real and debilitating as physical injuries, often requiring therapy and counseling to overcome.

What Damages Can I Recover for Uber or Lyft Accident Claim?

To secure compensation for rideshare accident injuries, you must file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver (regardless of whether they are an Uber or Lyft driver) before the statute of limitations expires. In Texas, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to bring your claim. 

A successful personal injury claim allows you to obtain compensation for both economic and non-economic losses, including:

• Past, current, and future medical bills
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Property damage
• Physical pain and suffering
• Mental pain and anguish
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of enjoyment of life