Texas Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Uber & Lyft Victims in the Lone Star State

Traditional taxi drivers work under strict city and county government rules, but some don’t apply to rideshare drivers. As regulations evolve, our legal team stays informed, so we’re prepared to help if you’ve been injured.

Our Texas rideshare accident lawyers have a clear understanding of ride-share companies’ complex liability issues and the insurance coverage gaps they try to use to deny responsibility for accidents and injuries their drivers have caused.

If you or a loved one sustains injuries in a rideshare accident, you may find it extremely difficult to get the driver or the company to take responsibility. Hilliard Law can help. 

Call us at (866) 927-3420  or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with our rideshare accident attorney in Texas.

Texas Rideshare Laws

Texas has specific laws governing rideshare services, also known as transportation network companies (TNCs). These laws aim to protect passengers, drivers, and third parties involved in rideshare accidents. Key regulations include:

• Insurance Requirements: Texas law mandates that rideshare companies maintain specific insurance coverage for their drivers, which varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
• Background Checks: Rideshare companies must conduct background checks on their drivers, ensuring they meet safety and driving record requirements.
• Vehicle Requirements: Uber and Lyft drivers must operate vehicles that meet specific age, safety, and inspection standards.
• Zero Tolerance Policy: Texas law requires rideshare companies to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol.

Understanding these laws is crucial when determining liability and seeking compensation for a rideshare accident.

Who is Liable for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Liability in a rideshare accident depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. Here’s how it works:

When the Driver is Logged Off

If the rideshare driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, they are considered a private driver, and their personal auto insurance policy applies. In this situation, Uber or Lyft’s insurance does not cover the accident.

When the Driver is Logged On But Hasn’t Accepted a Ride Request

If the driver is logged into the rideshare app but has not yet accepted a ride request, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury
• $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 for property damage

If damages exceed these limits, the driver’s personal insurance policy may be required to cover the remaining costs.

When the Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Is Transporting a Passenger

Once a driver accepts a ride request or is actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. This includes:

• Coverage for the driver, passengers, and third parties involved in the accident.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if another driver causes the accident but lacks sufficient insurance.

Determining liability can be complex, which is why you need an experienced Texas rideshare accident lawyer to investigate and handle your claim effectively.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can occur for various reasons, including:

• Distracted Driving: Rideshare drivers often rely on their phones for navigation and ride notifications, leading to distracted driving.
• Fatigue: Many Uber and Lyft drivers work long hours, increasing the risk of drowsy driving accidents.
• Speeding: Drivers rushing to complete more trips may engage in reckless driving behaviors.
• Failure to Obey Traffic Laws: Running red lights, failing to yield, and other violations contribute to crashes.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Some rideshare drivers lack professional training and experience handling high-traffic situations.

If you’ve been involved in an accident due to a rideshare driver’s negligence, Hillard Law is here to help.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you are involved in a rideshare accident, take the following steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
2. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
3. Get Contact Information – Collect the driver’s name, contact details, and rideshare app information.
4. Obtain Witness Statements – If anyone saw the accident, get their contact information.
5. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor to check for hidden injuries.
6. Consult a Texas Rideshare Accident Lawyer – Contact Hillard Law as soon as possible to discuss your case and legal options.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Rideshare Accident Claim?

Ridesharing services have been on the rise in this country and continue to be a convenient way to get around. However, Uber and Lyft are relatively new compared to taxi companies that have been operating for decades.  As the laws have evolved, regarding ride-share companies, we’ve stayed on top of the latest regulations. Our experienced legal team knows how to detect and fight the methods ride-share drivers and their employers use to avoid responsibility for accidents and injuries.

If an Uber or Lyft driver seriously injured you or a loved one, we may be able to help you get compensation for:

• Medical expenses, current and future
• Long-term care costs
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Loss of income while injured
• Loss of future earnings due to permanent injury
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish/emotional distress
• Property damage

Contact Our Ride-Sharing Accident Attorney in Texas Today

At Hilliard Law, our personal injury lawyers have been helping victims of personal injury since 1985. We know how to fight for you. 

If we take your automotive case, we will work on a contingent fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win.

Call us at (866) 927-3420 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation with our Texas rideshare accident lawyer.