Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a fixture of daily life in Houston. With millions of trips completed across the metro area each year, accidents involving rideshare vehicles are increasingly common — and legally far more complicated than a standard two-car collision. Our Houston rideshare accident lawyers have the experience to navigate this complex legal landscape and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Rideshare Accidents Are More Legally Complex
Rideshare crashes involve multiple potential parties and layered insurance policies. Which coverage applies depends heavily on the driver’s status in the app at the exact moment of the crash.
The Three Driver Status Phases
Phase 1 — App Is Off
The driver is off-duty. Only their personal auto insurance applies. Uber and Lyft provide no coverage whatsoever.
Phase 2 — App On, Waiting for a Request
The driver is logged in but has not yet accepted a ride. Limited contingent liability coverage kicks in from the rideshare company — typically $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
Phase 3 — Ride Accepted Through Passenger Drop-Off
Full rideshare company coverage applies: both Uber and Lyft carry a $1 million liability policy from the moment a driver accepts a trip until the passenger exits the vehicle. This is the most favorable coverage phase for injured parties.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Depending on the circumstances, liability in a rideshare accident may fall on the rideshare driver, another negligent driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or even a government entity if poor road conditions contributed. Our car accident attorneys investigate every angle to identify all responsible parties.
Critical Steps to Take After a Houston Rideshare Accident
- Call 911 and get medical attention
- Screenshot your ride receipt and trip details in the app immediately — this proves the driver was on an active trip
- Photograph injuries, vehicle damage, and the scene
- Report the incident through the Uber or Lyft app
- Get the driver’s personal insurance information
- Contact a Houston rideshare accident attorney before speaking with any insurance adjuster
Have common questions after an accident like whether you can sue both the driver and Uber? Our FAQ page has answers — and our attorneys are always available to walk through the specifics of your case.
Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement
Rideshare company insurers are experienced at making fast, low offers while victims are still recovering. An attorney can evaluate the true worth of your case before you accept anything. Contact Maida Law Firm for a free consultation — no fee unless we win.