Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer San Antonio

Rideshare services make getting around San Antonio easy, but a crash involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle can be far more complicated than an ordinary car accident. If you were hurt as a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or another motorist, The Daspit Law Firm can review who may be responsible and which insurance may apply. Your consultation is free.

Why Rideshare Accident Claims Are Different

Uber and Lyft are among the most widely used ride-sharing services because many people find them more convenient than taxis or public transportation. But the way these companies operate can put injured people at a disadvantage after a collision. Several features can make a claim harder than a typical car accident case.

Drivers Are Independent Contractors

Uber and Lyft treat their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. That can mean drivers are not held to the same standards as professional drivers who work for a company. They may not receive the same training or be regulated in the same way.

Insurance and Liability Can Depend on the Trip Status

Rideshare companies often have policies that apply only when a driver is on the clock. In some situations, the coverage that applies may depend on whether the app was off, on and waiting for a request, or carrying a passenger. In some cases, an injured person may need to seek compensation through the driver's personal insurance instead of the company's coverage. Texas also has laws that require rideshare companies to maintain insurance, and the details can matter to your claim.

Who May Be Responsible After an Uber or Lyft Crash

Responsibility depends on how the crash happened. Depending on the facts, a claim may involve one or more of these parties:

•         The rideshare driver, if the driver was negligent

•         The driver of another vehicle, if that person caused the crash

•         The rideshare company, in situations where its insurance or conduct is part of the claim

•         Others, such as a vehicle owner or a negligent road or equipment party, in less common cases

If the other driver was distracted or impaired, that may also be part of the case.

Compensation You May Be Able to Pursue

When you are injured in an accident you did not cause, you have the right to pursue financial compensation. Depending on your case, damages may include:

•         Medical expenses, past and future

•         Lost wages and loss of earning capacity

•         Pain and suffering and mental anguish

•         Other losses related to your injuries

In a fatal crash, surviving family members may have options under Texas wrongful death law. Every case is different, and results cannot be guaranteed.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in San Antonio

Steps at the Scene and Soon After

•         Call 911 and get medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.

•         Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and your injuries.

•         Get the driver's name, license, plate number, and insurance information.

•         Screenshot the rideshare app trip details if you were a passenger.

•         Save your receipts and records of missed work.

•         Avoid giving recorded statements to insurers before you get legal advice.

Texas Deadlines and Fault Rules

Texas generally gives injured people two years to file a personal injury lawsuit under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code section 16.003. Texas also uses a modified comparative fault rule, so if a jury finds you more than 50 percent responsible, you may be barred from recovering damages. Prompt action helps protect your claim. See also our page on recovery from insurance.

Talk to a San Antonio Rideshare Accident Lawyer

If you or someone you love was injured in an accident involving Uber, Lyft, or another ridesharing service, our legal team is available to discuss your case during a free consultation. Insurance companies are often determined to minimize or deny claims. We take your fight as far as it needs to go. Contact The Daspit Law Firm to learn more about your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue Uber or Lyft if I was hurt in a crash?

Possibly. Whether a rideshare company is responsible depends on the facts, including the driver's status in the app at the time and how the crash occurred. Because drivers are independent contractors, claims can be more complex. A lawyer can review your situation and explain which parties and insurance policies may be involved.

Whose insurance pays if I was a passenger?

That depends on the circumstances. It may be the rideshare company's coverage, the driver's personal policy, or another driver's insurance. Coverage often depends on whether the driver was on the clock. Gather trip details and insurance information and have a lawyer review which policies may apply.

What if the rideshare driver was not at fault?

If another driver caused the crash, you may be able to bring a claim against that driver and their insurer. You may also have coverage under your own policy. We can help sort out who may be responsible and what options you have.

How long do I have to file a claim in Texas?

Most Texas personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years, though exceptions may apply, and insurance policies can have their own notice requirements. Do not wait to get advice, because evidence such as app data and video can be lost over time.

Does it cost anything to speak with Daspit Law Firm?

No. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case. During that conversation, we can explain how fees and case costs work so you know what to expect before deciding on next steps.