Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have become an easy way to get around and make some extra cash. Not only are they convenient, but they’re accessible for last-minute rides. But what happens if you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft and the driver gets into a fender bender? Who is liable?

In Pennsylvania, a driver’s insurance policy can either be “fault” or “no-fault” for injuries resulting from an accident. The Keystone State has a “choice no-fault” car insurance regime; it is up to the policyholder to decide which one they want when they sign up for the policy.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Pennsylvania

The leading cause of car accidents is negligence. Rideshare accidents are no different. While rideshare drivers should practice safe driving habits, the same can’t always be said for the other drivers on the road. Unfortunately, drivers may be distracted by their cell phones, navigational systems or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol when an accident occurs. A personal injury lawyer will be able to investigate the details of your case to determine who was at-fault for the accident and your injuries. While it may look like a distracted driver was solely at fault for the crash, your lawyer may be able to determine that your vehicle had defective brakes, which played a significant role in what happened. Sometimes the reason for an accident isn’t always readily apparent.

Uber and Lyft’s Insurance Policy

Pennsylvania law requires Uber and Lyft to provide liability insurance for passengers in order to remain licensed. This means that if a passenger gets injured during a trip, they can file a claim with Uber or Lyft’s insurance company and can likely get full coverage. But if the other driver is at fault, a passenger can file a claim with their own insurance carrier.

An exception to this is that if the Uber or Lyft driver was not using the app when the accident occurred. In this type of situation, the passenger must rely on the personal insurance coverage of the driver.

Uber and Lyft’s Supplemental Coverage

Uber and Lyft provide varying supplemental insurance coverage for their drivers. This variation depends on when the accident happens. That is, when the app is on but no ride has been accepted and when the driver has picked up a passenger and is driving.

Get Information About the Rideshare Accident

Immediately after an Uber or Lyft accident, make sure you get as much information as possible about the crash. This means taking note of the location and time of the crash and road condition. If you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, collect the rideshare driver’s information as well as the other drivers involved.

Contact a Pittsburgh Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Car Accident Case in Pennsylvania

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a car accident in Pennsylvania? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at the Law Office of Mark A. Smith represents clients injured because of car accidents in Pittsburgh, Homestead, Erie, Greensburg, and throughout Pennsylvania. Call (412) 368-8398 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation about your case.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.