Who Can Be Held Responsible In A Rideshare Accident?
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed the way people get around, but when an accident happens, determining who is responsible can be complicated. Unlike traditional car accidents, where liability often falls on one of the drivers involved, rideshare accidents introduce additional factors that can impact who is held accountable. Multiple parties may be involved, including the rideshare driver, the company, other motorists, or even third parties. New York law requires rideshare companies to carry insurance, but coverage depends on what stage of the ride the driver was in at the time of the crash. Understanding liability in these cases is essential for anyone injured in a rideshare accident, whether as a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian.
When Is The Rideshare Driver Liable?
A rideshare driver can be held responsible if their negligence caused the accident. This includes situations where the driver was speeding, distracted, under the influence, or otherwise careless behind the wheel. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 388, vehicle owners can be held liable for injuries caused by negligent drivers operating their vehicles with permission. However, since rideshare drivers use their personal vehicles, the insurance coverage available depends on their status within the rideshare app at the time of the accident.
New York law divides rideshare coverage into three categories:
- Driver Is Offline – If the rideshare driver is not logged into the app, they are considered a private driver. Their personal auto insurance policy applies, and neither Uber nor Lyft provides coverage.
- Driver Is Logged In But Has No Passenger – If the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, rideshare companies provide liability coverage of up to $75,000 per person for bodily injury, $150,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. This is required under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1693.
- Driver Has Accepted A Ride Or Has A Passenger – Once the driver accepts a ride or has a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide a $1.25 million insurance policy that covers both liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
When Is The Rideshare Company Liable?
Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, which limits the company’s direct liability for accidents. However, they are required to carry insurance for active rides and may be held responsible if they fail to properly vet a driver. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1693, rideshare companies must conduct background checks and ensure drivers meet safety requirements. If a rideshare company allows an unqualified or dangerous driver on its platform, it may be held liable for an accident.
When Can Other Drivers Be Held Liable?
If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, they may be held responsible for injuries and damages. This includes cases where a rideshare driver is struck by another motorist who was speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence. In these situations, the at-fault driver’s insurance should cover damages. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, the uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage provided by the rideshare company may apply.
When Can A Third Party Be Held Liable?
In some cases, a third party may be responsible for a rideshare accident. This can include:
- Vehicle Manufacturers – If a defect in the rideshare vehicle contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable under New York Product Liability Law.
- Government Entities – Poorly maintained roads, faulty traffic signals, or construction hazards can contribute to accidents. Under New York General Municipal Law § 50-e, claims against government entities must be filed within 90 days.
- Pedestrians Or Cyclists – If a pedestrian or cyclist’s actions caused a rideshare accident, they may be held responsible for any injuries that result.
New York Rideshare Accident FAQs
Who Pays For My Medical Bills After A Rideshare Accident?
New York is a no-fault insurance state, which means your own personal injury protection (PIP) insurance will cover medical expenses regardless of who was at fault. However, if injuries are severe, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance or the rideshare company’s policy.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured In A Rideshare Accident?
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the report. Gather evidence, including driver information, witness statements, and photos of the scene. If you were a passenger, report the accident to the rideshare company through the app.
Can I Sue Uber Or Lyft Directly?
It is difficult to sue Uber or Lyft directly because they classify drivers as independent contractors. However, if the company’s negligence contributed to the accident, such as failing to conduct proper background checks, a claim may be possible.
What If The Rideshare Driver Was At Fault But Did Not Have Insurance?
Rideshare companies are required to carry insurance for active rides. If the driver was logged into the app but not carrying passengers, limited coverage applies. If they had a passenger or were en route to pick one up, Uber and Lyft’s $1.25 million policy should cover damages.
Can I File A Claim If I Was A Passenger In A Rideshare?
Yes, if you were a passenger, you may file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance, whether that was the rideshare driver or another motorist. If neither party has sufficient coverage, the rideshare company’s policy may provide compensation.
What If A Pedestrian Or Cyclist Caused The Accident?
If a pedestrian or cyclist was responsible for the accident, they may be held liable for damages. In these cases, their personal liability insurance, if available, may cover the cost of injuries. If they do not have insurance, recovering damages may be more difficult.
How Long Do I Have To File A Claim After A Rideshare Accident?
Under New York Civil Practice Law & Rules § 214, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York is three years from the date of the accident. However, claims against government entities must be filed within 90 days under New York General Municipal Law § 50-e.
What If The Rideshare Driver Was Off Duty?
If the driver was not logged into the rideshare app at the time of the accident, they are considered a regular motorist. In this case, their personal auto insurance would apply, and the rideshare company would not be liable.
Can I Recover Damages For Lost Wages After A Rideshare Accident?
Yes, if the accident caused you to miss work, you may recover lost wages. Compensation may come from your no-fault insurance, the at-fault driver’s policy, or the rideshare company’s insurance if applicable.
What If The Insurance Company Denies My Claim?
Insurance companies may deny claims for various reasons, such as disputing liability or arguing that injuries are not severe enough. If your claim is denied, legal action may be necessary to pursue fair compensation.
Our Poughkeepsie Rideshare Accident Attorneys Take a Team Approach on Every Case
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, you should not have to deal with insurance companies alone. Whether you were a passenger, a rideshare driver, or another motorist, you deserve compensation for your injuries. At Jonna Spilbor Law, we handle rideshare accident cases and fight to protect your rights. Let us help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Call Jonna Spilbor Law today for a free consultation. To receive a free consultation, contact our Fishkill rideshare accident attorney at Jonna Spilbor Law at (845) 485-2529. We represent clients throughout the Hudson Valley, Dutchess County, Putnam County, and New York City.
