Reporting an Uber or Lyft accident is similar to reporting any other car crash. However, rideshare accidents can raise an extra insurance question. The driver’s activity on the rideshare app can affect which insurance policy covers the crash.
Check the driver’s app status
The driver’s app status matters because rideshare insurance does not apply at all times. Under New York’s rideshare insurance requirements, coverage applies while a driver is logged into the company’s network. It also applies while the driver is completing a scheduled ride.
If the driver is not online, their personal auto insurance generally applies. However, different coverage may apply once the driver logs into the app and waits for a ride request. The coverage can change again after the driver accepts a ride.
For example, Uber says it provides at least $1 million in damage to others after a driver accepts a ride request. That coverage continues through the trip. Lyft also provides different levels of coverage based on what the driver is doing in the app.
Gather the right accident details
Even with these insurance differences, the steps after a rideshare crash are much like those after any other accident. First, get the driver’s name, contact details and insurance information. Also, record the name of the rideshare company.
Next, take photos and videos of the vehicles, damage and accident scene. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses. When needed, report the crash to the police. People who may have injuries should also seek medical care.
In addition, save any information from the rideshare app. For example, keep ride receipts and screenshots. These records may help show whether the driver was working when the crash happened.
Understand which coverage may apply
After the accident, figuring out which insurance policy applies can take time. This issue may become more important when a crash causes serious injuries. In some cases, more than one insurance policy may be involved.
New York City also has separate rules for certain commercially licensed rideshare drivers. Therefore, the available coverage may depend on where the crash happened and how the driver was working.
An attorney can review the driver’s app status, insurance policies and other evidence. This review may help an injured person understand which coverage applies and how to handle the claim.