Principle Attorney
Rideshare services have changed the way we get around Denver. Whether you’re catching a late-night ride from LoDo, heading to DIA, or grabbing a quick trip down Colfax, Uber and Lyft are everywhere. But when rideshare accidents happen, figuring out who’s responsible can be anything but straightforward.
If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare crash as a passenger, pedestrian, or driver, here’s what you need to know about how liability works and what your options are for recovering damages.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare drivers face unique challenges behind the wheel, which can increase the risk of accidents. Some of the most common causes of Uber and Lyft crashes include:
- Driver distraction – Many rideshare drivers rely heavily on their phones for directions, ride requests, and communication with passengers. Glancing at the app or GPS for even a moment can lead to a crash.
- Fatigue – Drivers often work long hours, sometimes for multiple rideshare companies. Fatigue impairs reaction time and decision-making.
- Inexperience – Not all Uber and Lyft drivers have professional driving backgrounds. Some may be unfamiliar with high-traffic areas, night driving, or bad weather conditions.
- Unsafe stops or pickups – Rideshare drivers may pull over abruptly to pick up or drop off passengers in unsafe locations, including crosswalks or busy intersections.
- Speeding or reckless driving – Trying to complete more rides in less time can lead to risky behavior behind the wheel.
While many rideshare trips go smoothly, the demands of the job, combined with traffic, pressure, and distractions, can lead to preventable accidents.
Who’s Liable in a Denver Rideshare Crash?
Liability in an Uber or Lyft crash depends on several key factors:
- Who caused the accident (rideshare driver, another driver, or both)?
- Was the rideshare driver logged into the app?
- Were they waiting for a fare, on their way to a pickup, or actively transporting a passenger?
If the rideshare driver is at fault, they may be personally liable; however, Uber or Lyft’s insurance coverage might also apply, depending on what they were doing at the time of the crash.
If another driver caused the crash, their insurance would typically be the primary source of compensation.
And if you were a passenger, you may be entitled to file a claim through Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy, even if your driver wasn’t at fault.
How Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage Works
Uber and Lyft offer tiered insurance coverage that changes based on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:
- Driver is offline – Only their personal auto insurance applies.
- The driver is online but hasn’t accepted a ride – Uber/Lyft provides limited liability coverage (up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident).
- Driver is en route to a pickup or has a passenger – Uber/Lyft provides up to $1 million in liability coverage, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.
This structure matters. If you’re filing a claim, knowing what “phase” the driver was in at the time of the crash will determine which insurance policies apply and how much coverage is available.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in a crash with an Uber or Lyft, here are a few immediate steps you can take to protect your claim:
- Call 911 and get medical attention, even if you don’t feel hurt right away
- Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and any injuries
- Get contact information from all drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- Screenshot trip details from your rideshare app
- Report the crash through the Uber or Lyft app
- Speak to an attorney before dealing with insurance adjusters
Rideshare accident claims can quickly become complicated. Having an attorney involved early can make a big difference.
How Our Firm Can Help
Rideshare companies are known for distancing themselves from liability. Their drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees, and they often leave accident victims to deal with complex insurance issues on their own.
At the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya, we understand the ins and outs of Uber and Lyft claims. We can help determine who’s liable, document your injuries, and deal with insurance companies so you can focus on recovering.
Talk to a Denver Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Denver, don’t try to sort out liability on your own. We’re here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call today for a free consultation.