Being involved in a rideshare accident can be confusing and overwhelming. If you were injured in a crash while using Uber or Lyft in Utah, you may be entitled to compensation. Call 801-500-4000 today to schedule your free consultation with Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks.
Rideshare Accidents Are on the Rise in Utah
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed how we get around, offering convenient, affordable transportation at the tap of a button. But as the number of rideshare vehicles on Utah’s roads grows, so does the risk of accidents involving these drivers.
According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, distracted and drowsy driving remain among the top causes of motor vehicle crashes in the state, two behaviors often associated with rideshare drivers working long hours. Add in unfamiliar roads or the pressure to meet ride quotas, and the result is a growing number of preventable accidents.
Unlike traditional car accidents, however, rideshare collisions involve multiple layers of liability, including the driver, the rideshare company, and various insurance policies.
Common Causes of Rideshare Crashes in Utah
Some of the most frequent contributing factors in rideshare-related accidents include:
- Distracted driving (such as looking at GPS or the app)
- Fatigue from working long shifts or driving late at night
- Speeding to complete more rides or meet customer expectations
- Inexperienced drivers unfamiliar with routes or local laws
- Impairment from alcohol, drugs, or medications
These crashes can involve passengers, other motorists, bicyclists, or pedestrians. No matter your role in the accident, it’s essential to understand your rights.
Who’s Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Liability in a rideshare crash can be especially complex. The responsible party (and whose insurance pays) depends on the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident:
- App Off: If the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, the rideshare company bears no responsibility. The driver’s personal insurance applies.
- App On, No Ride Accepted: If the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride, the rideshare company may provide limited liability coverage, usually for third-party injuries.
- Ride Accepted or Passenger Onboard: If the driver has accepted a ride or is actively transporting a passenger, the rideshare company provides up to $1 million in liability coverage, which can cover both passengers and third parties.
Proving which stage the driver was in (and securing compensation accordingly) requires a detailed investigation. Insurance companies may attempt to deny claims or shift blame, so having an experienced rideshare accident lawyer on your side is critical.
What to Do After a Rideshare Crash
If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, whether as a passenger or another road user, take these steps to protect your health and your claim:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel okay
- Report the accident to the police and get a copy of the report
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries
- Gather contact information from the driver(s) and witnesses
- Document your ride in the app, including the trip and time
- Do not accept early settlement offers from insurers
- Consult with a qualified attorney before speaking with adjusters
These early steps can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
How Rideshare Insurance Coverage Works in Utah
Both Uber and Lyft are required to provide certain levels of insurance coverage to protect passengers, pedestrians, and others who may be injured by a rideshare driver. Depending on the circumstances, available coverage may include:
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP)
However, insurance companies often challenge coverage limits, question fault, or argue about when coverage applies. Having legal representation ensures that you’re not left to deal with these complex issues on your own.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim After a Rideshare Accident
If you were hurt in a rideshare crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation or therapy
To recover these damages, your attorney will build a strong claim based on police reports, medical records, app data, driver logs, witness testimony, and more. They will also handle communications with the various insurance companies involved.
In Utah, you typically have four years to file a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident. However, rideshare cases can be more complicated due to corporate policies and multiple parties, so it’s best to act quickly.
What if You’re a Rideshare Driver Who Was Injured?
Drivers for Uber and Lyft may also be entitled to compensation after a crash, especially if another motorist was at fault. Rideshare companies offer some protection, but their insurance may not cover everything, especially lost wages, long-term disability, or ongoing medical care.
Drivers may need to coordinate claims across their personal auto policy, the company’s insurance, and possibly the at-fault driver’s insurance. Legal assistance can be invaluable in making sure they receive full and fair compensation.
How a Utah Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident is not something you should have to do alone. A skilled personal injury attorney can:
- Determine who is liable
- Collect and preserve critical evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Calculate the true value of your claim
- File lawsuits if settlement negotiations fail
- Ensure your rights are protected every step of the way
Get the Support, Answers, and Compensation You Deserve
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand how life-changing a rideshare accident can be. From mounting medical bills to time off work and emotional trauma, the impact can be enormous. Our team has decades of experience representing injured clients in Utah and fighting for the justice they deserve.
If you or a loved one was hurt in a rideshare accident, let us help you move forward with confidence. Call 801-500-4000 today to schedule your free consultation. We’re ready to listen, support you, and protect your rights.
