When a crash involves a rideshare vehicle, one of the first questions people ask is, “Who is responsible?” That question is more important than it may seem. Liability determines not only who should be held accountable but also which insurance coverage applies and what compensation may be available. Whether you’re a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, understanding how liability works in these situations can make a big difference. At Kiefer & Kiefer, we’ve worked with many clients involved in rideshare incidents, helping them identify responsible parties and move forward with their claims.
Driver Fault Plays A Central Role
As in any vehicle accident, the fault of the drivers involved is a major factor. If the rideshare driver caused the crash, they can be held liable, just like any other motorist. However, rideshare accidents often involve additional steps because the driver may have been logged into a company’s app or completing a trip. In those cases, determining fault is only part of the process—we also need to consider how the driver’s status affects available insurance coverage.
On the other hand, if another driver caused the accident, liability may rest with that individual, and a claim would be directed at their insurance. In some situations, both drivers may share some responsibility. When that happens, fault may be divided between them, and claims can be made against both.
Rideshare Companies May Provide Coverage
Companies like Uber and Lyft carry liability insurance for accidents involving their drivers, but that coverage only applies under certain conditions. If the driver was logged into the app but hadn’t accepted a ride yet, limited coverage may apply. If the driver had accepted a ride or was transporting a passenger, higher insurance limits are available.
However, these companies typically classify drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. That means the company may not be directly responsible for the driver’s actions. This distinction can affect whether the company itself can be named in a lawsuit, which is different from accidents involving employees of traditional delivery or transport companies.
Passenger Claims May Involve Multiple Parties
If you were a rideshare passenger, the issue of liability is especially important. Since you were not at fault, you may be able to seek compensation from the rideshare driver, another involved driver, or through the rideshare company’s insurance policy. The details of who was responsible will shape how your claim is handled and who will pay for your medical bills, lost income, or other damages.
We help clients gather information such as police reports, app data, and witness statements to determine liability and explore every available insurance option. This process is key to protecting your ability to recover full compensation after an accident.
Liability Decisions Impact Compensation
Why does liability matter so much? Because it influences who pays and how much. If the wrong party is blamed or important facts are missed, an injured person might miss out on valuable compensation. In rideshare accidents, identifying the liable party early helps protect your claim and gives you a clearer path forward.
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare crash and have questions about who may be at fault, working with a legal team can help clarify your situation. If you’re looking for our New Orleans, LA rideshare accident lawyer, the team at Kiefer & Kiefer is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options and find out what steps make sense for your case.
