Rideshare Accident Attorney: Are Uber / Lyft commercial vehicles?

Rideshare accidents in Texas may be classified as commercial vehicle accidents, depending on the driver's status at the time of the incident. Understanding the nuances of insurance and liability in these cases is essential. Here’s what you need to know.

If you’ve been in a car crash involving a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, you might wonder if these personal injury accidents are treated as commercial vehicle accidents under Texas law. The answer is - it depends. In Texas, rideshare vehicles are considered commercial vehicles when they’re actively being used for business purposes, such as when the driver is logged into the rideshare app and either waiting for a ride request or transporting a passenger.

In such cases, the rideshare company’s commercial insurance policies apply, often providing higher coverage limits than standard personal insurance. For example, Uber and Lyft offer liability coverage of up to $1 million when drivers are actively working. However, if the driver isn’t logged into the app and is using their car for personal reasons, the accident would be treated like a standard car accident, and only the driver’s personal insurance applies.

At Ali Law Group, our team of experienced car accident lawyers specializes in handling personal injury claims including rideshare accidents, ensuring clients receive the compensation they deserve after an accident.

How Commercial Vehicle Insurance Works in Rideshare Accidents

When a rideshare accident is classified as a commercial vehicle accident, the involved parties benefit from increased insurance coverage. The rideshare companies, Uber and Lyft, offer specific insurance policies that kick in based on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:

• Waiting for a Ride (Period 1): If the driver is logged into the app but hasn’t yet accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident.
• On the Way to Pick Up a Passenger or Driving a Passenger (Periods 2 & 3): Once a driver accepts a ride and is either on their way to pick up a passenger or actively transporting one, the rideshare companies provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. This includes both bodily injury and property damage claims.

This commercial coverage offers better protection for both the driver and passengers. It also ensures that if you're injured as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, there's adequate coverage for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Having a skilled commercial vehicle accident attorney on your side is crucial in these cases, as they understand the complexities of insurance policies and can help you secure the full compensation you're entitled to, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.

Rideshare Accidents vs. Standard Car Accidents

One of the key differences between a rideshare accident and a typical car accident in Texas is the insurance coverage. In a normal car accident, the at-fault driver’s personal insurance would cover damages, but Texas only requires drivers to carry a minimum of $30,000 for injuries per person and $60,000 per accident. This coverage can be quickly used up in serious accidents, leaving victims with limited compensation.

But, if the rideshare driver is logged into the app, their commercial insurance provides much higher coverage limits, offering more financial security for victims. This can make a huge difference, especially in cases involving serious injuries or extensive property damage.

However, rideshare companies often consider their drivers as independent contractors, which can complicate the legal process. While Uber or Lyft’s insurance may cover certain damages, the companies themselves may not be directly liable for the actions of the driver. This is why working with experienced personal injury lawyers, like those at Ali Law Group, is important to navigating these complicated claims.

The Importance of Determining Driver Status

When it comes to rideshare accidents, determining the driver’s status at the time of the accident is crucial. Whether the accident is classified as a commercial vehicle accident or not hinges on whether the driver was logged into the app and working. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Logged Into the App (Period 1): The driver is waiting for a ride request, and Uber/Lyft’s contingent insurance applies.
• En Route or Transporting a Passenger (Periods 2 & 3): The driver is actively working, and the rideshare company’s full $1 million coverage is available.
• Not Logged Into the App: The driver is off the clock, and only their personal insurance policy applies.

Rideshare accidents can sometimes involve multiple parties, including other drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists, which can complicate the claims process. The insurance coverage available may differ based on who is at fault, so it's crucial to investigate all aspects of the accident thoroughly, which is why hiring a rideshare accident lawyer like Ali Law Group can make all the difference in your case.

Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Lawyer After a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare accident cases are more complicated than typical car accident cases, and the legal nuances can be overwhelming for victims. Whether you’re dealing with the rideshare company’s insurance or the driver’s personal policy, navigating these layers requires expertise. At Ali Law Group, we have extensive experience handling rideshare accident claims in San Antonio, and we understand how to build a strong case for maximum compensation.

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, it’s crucial to seek legal help immediately. We can help you determine whether the accident is classified as a commercial vehicle accident, guide you through the insurance process, and fight to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a rideshare accident a commercial vehicle accident?
In Texas, rideshare accidents are classified as commercial vehicle accidents if the driver is logged into the rideshare app or transporting a passenger at the time of the accident.

Does Uber or Lyft’s insurance cover my injuries if I’m a passenger?
Yes, if you’re a passenger in a rideshare vehicle working for one of these rideshare companies, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage for injuries and damages during the ride. Other rideshare companies may have a different policy. 

What happens if the rideshare driver wasn’t logged into the app?
If the driver wasn’t logged into the app, the accident is treated like a regular car accident, and only the driver’s personal insurance coverage applies.

Is there more compensation available in a rideshare accident than a normal car accident?
Yes, rideshare companies typically offer higher liability coverage compared to standard personal insurance policies, which can result in more compensation for victims.

Can a rideshare company be held liable for the accident?
Rideshare companies typically classify their drivers as independent contractors, meaning the company may not be directly liable. However, their insurance can still cover damages.

Do I need a commercial vehicle accident lawyer for a rideshare accident?
Given the complexities of insurance and liability in rideshare accidents, it’s highly recommended to consult with an attorney to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Secure a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today! 

Dealing with a rideshare accident can be complex, especially when determining whether it's considered a commercial vehicle accident under Texas law. Having an experienced commercial vehicle accident attorney can make all the difference in securing fair compensation. Contact Ali Law Group today for expert legal guidance and let us help you navigate the legal process with confidence.