Uber/Lyft/Rideshare Accidents in Phenix City

Uber, Lyft, and rideshare accidents in Phenix City are different from other types of accident claims. Fault may be shared, coverage can change depending on the driver’s app status, and you may be dealing with multiple insurance companies at once.  At Bence Law Firm, LLC, car accident attorney David Bence is ready to handle the legal process so you can focus on your recovery.

Who May Be Responsible for a Rideshare Accident?

Several parties can be at fault for a rideshare wreck depending on the circumstances. The following are the most likely people Bence Law Firm, LLC, could pursue for liability on your behalf.

The Rideshare Driver

The driver may be at fault if they were partaking in dangerous behaviors, such as:

• Speeding
• Failing to yield
• Distracted driving
• Violating traffic laws

Just like any other driver on the road, rideshare drivers owe a duty of care to passengers and other motorists. If their negligence caused the accident, they can be held responsible.

The Rideshare Company

Liability may depend on whether the driver had the app active at the time of the crash. If the driver was logged in and waiting for a ride request or actively transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s insurance may provide coverage.

If the app is off, the driver’s personal insurance will typically apply instead. State law sets specific insurance requirements for rideshare companies based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

Other Drivers on the Road

A third party may have caused or contributed to the crash. If another driver ran a red light, merged unsafely, or caused the collision, that driver could be held liable. A rideshare crash attorney in Phenix City could determine who bears responsibility and pursue compensation from all liable parties.

Understanding How Auto Insurance Applies to Rideshare Drivers

In Alabama, rideshare coverage typically falls into periods based on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. The law defines these periods and the coverage requirements, which include:

• When the app is off, the driver’s personal auto insurance usually applies
• When the app is on and the driver is waiting for a request, the transportation network company must maintain the minimum coverage required by statute for that period
• When the driver has accepted a ride request or passenger in the car, the transportation network company must maintain higher coverage required by statute

Because insurers may argue over which policy is primary, rideshare claims can turn into a coverage dispute fast. A Phenix City rideshare accident attorney could help identify the applicable period, request documentation, and push back if an insurer tries to shift responsibility.

UM/UIM Coverage for Rideshare Passengers

State law dictates the minimum uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage for transportation network companies. During the lower-coverage period, minimum UM/UIM limits are $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage, while the higher-coverage period requires $1 million in liability coverage per occurrence.

State Law and Rideshare Accident Claims

Rideshare collision cases in Phenix City still follow the state’s general injury deadline, and a dedicated lawyer could help you ensure you file within the timeframe. Under the law, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date the right of action accrues.

Waiting can also make the case harder to prove. Video may be overwritten, witnesses can become difficult to locate, and small details that help establish fault can fade quickly.

Talk to a Phenix City Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

Uber, Lyft, and rideshare accidents in Phenix City require an attorney who understands how these claims work and how to deal with multiple insurance companies at once. At Bence Law Firm, LLC, David Bence comes from a long line of attorneys and has the knowledge and determination to hold negligent parties accountable.

We know how rideshare insurance works, and we work to pursue full compensation you may be owed. Do not wait to take action. Contact us online today to discuss your case with our rideshare accident lawyer.