Insurance Coverage in Ogden Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accident claims can be confusing. If you need help navigating the process after an Ogden rideshare accident, call Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks at (801) 500-4000 for a free legal case review.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a convenient way to travel around Ogden, whether you are commuting to work, heading out for dinner, or other casual daily traveling through the city.

Unfortunately, accidents can still happen, and when they do, the insurance process may be more complicated than it first appears. We understand that you might feel stressed and uncertain after a rideshare accident.
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, our team of Ogden rideshare accident attorneys’ goal is to simplify this process for you.

In this article, we will walk you through the basics of rideshare insurance policies, explain how coverage differs from personal auto insurance, and discuss what happens during different phases of a ride. We will also share how our firm helps you navigate insurance disputes so you can seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Overview of Rideshare Insurance Policies

Rideshare companies offer insurance coverage that is meant to protect both drivers and passengers during a trip. However, coverage can vary based on the stage of the ride.

Rideshare insurance typically includes:

• Liability Coverage: Protects against claims when the rideshare driver is at fault.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Helps if another driver without adequate insurance causes the accident.
• Contingent Collision and Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damage to the rideshare driver’s vehicle in certain situations.

In Ogden, these policies come into play depending on whether the driver is waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting someone. 

If you are injured as a passenger or in another vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation through the rideshare company’s insurance if the driver is found at fault. Our team of Ogden rideshare accident lawyers can help you figure out which coverage applies to your situation.

Differences Between Rideshare and Personal Auto Insurance

One of the main points of confusion after a rideshare accident is determining when personal auto insurance applies versus when the rideshare company’s policy is in effect. Here are the key differences:

• Purpose of Use: Personal auto insurance is designed for normal, day-to-day driving. Rideshare driving is considered a commercial use. Many personal insurance policies exclude commercial activities, meaning your policy might not cover an accident that occurs while you are picking up or dropping off passengers.
• Coverage Levels: Rideshare insurance often has higher liability limits than personal auto policies, especially while a passenger is in the car. This increased coverage is meant to protect both drivers and passengers if an accident occurs.
• Policy Exclusions: Even if a rideshare company provides coverage, some scenarios might not be included. For instance, the rideshare company might deny coverage if the driver is off the clock and not logged into the app.
• Overlap and Gaps: When the driver has the app on but hasn’t accepted a ride request, a coverage gap may often fall to the driver’s personal insurance. Understanding these gaps is crucial for figuring out who pays for damages.

Knowing these differences can help determine which insurance company is responsible for your claim if you are involved in a rideshare accident. We at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks are here to guide you through the process and protect your right to fair compensation.

How Insurance Coverage Applies During Different Phases of a Ride

Rideshare trips typically have several distinct phases. Understanding which phase you were in at the time of the accident is key to knowing what coverage applies:

1. App On, No Ride Accepted: When a driver is logged in to the rideshare app but has not accepted a request, many companies offer only limited liability coverage. The driver’s personal insurance might apply to damages, but coverage may also be denied due to commercial activity.
2. Ride Accepted, En Route to Passenger: Once a driver accepts a ride request and is on the way to pick up a passenger, the rideshare company’s higher liability coverage generally kicks in. However, collision and comprehensive coverage may only apply if the driver has those options in their personal policy.
3. Passenger in the Vehicle: When a passenger is in the car, rideshare companies typically provide their maximum coverage limits for liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and collision coverage (if the driver has personal collision coverage).

If you are hit by a rideshare driver or injured as a rideshare passenger in Ogden, which phase the driver was in during the crash can determine whose insurance pays. A thorough review of the driver’s app status and logs provided by the rideshare company can confirm the coverage that applies to your claim.

How Our Firm Helps Clients Navigate Insurance Disputes

Dealing with multiple insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you are recovering from an accident. Our team at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks offers guidance and support every step of the way.

1. Investigating the Accident: We dig into the details, gathering police reports, witness statements, and rideshare app data to find out exactly which coverage should apply.
2. Communicating with Insurance Adjusters: Our firm manages all communication with the different insurance providers involved. We ensure that your statements are clear and factual and that you do not sign anything against your best interests.
3. Filing Claims and Seeking Compensation: Once we determine which policy is responsible, we file the appropriate claims on your behalf. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
4. Negotiating a Settlement: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We use our legal and local knowledge to negotiate a settlement that reflects the true cost of your injuries.
5. Litigation if Needed: We are prepared to take your case to court if a fair agreement cannot be reached. We stand by your side until you obtain the outcome you deserve.