When we take an Uber or Lyft, we think about the freedom of mobility and ease of access, but what we sometimes, forget is that car accidents are just as likely, even if we are in the backseat. But, if one is in a rideshare car accident, is it treated differently than a traditional car accident?

Accidents while one is in the backseat

If the rideshare car accident occurs when one is a rider, then the rideshare application’s commercial liability insurance will provide coverage. This does not mean that the passenger cannot separately sue the negligent driver or the company itself, it just means that the app’s insurance will provide immediate coverage. Though, it is always advisable to contact an attorney to ensure that one’s rights are protected.

Accidents while one is in the driver’s seat

For drivers, liability depends on whether one has a rider in the car. If a rider is in the car, then the app’s commercial liability insurance will cover the driver, their vehicle and their damages, up to the policy limitations and after a deductible, usually $1,000. It can become complicated if one does not have an active rider though. Some applications will still provide some coverage, as long as one is active in the app at the time, but others will not. If they do not provide coverage, then one’s own personal car policy will be tapped for coverage. Though, they may deny coverage, if there is not a rideshare or commercial endorsement. If that happens, contacting an attorney may be the only way to get coverage.

Accidents while outside the car

For those Warrenton, Virginia, residents who are impacted by a rideshare driver, it can be just as complicated as the driver. This is because, again, there may be multiple insurance companies with potential liability, but they may all not want to provide coverage. This would mean that the Virginian would need to, essentially, sue everyone: the app, their commercial liability insurance, the driver and their personal car insurance.