In most cases, you cannot file a claim against Uber because Texas treats its drivers as independent contractors, not employees. You may make a claim against Uber’s insurance policy; however, if the driver was logged into the app or you were a passenger at the time of the accident. You might also pursue other claims against the at-fault driver and/or other liable parties, depending on the accident’s circumstances.
Austin Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Rideshare Accident Attorney in Austin, TX
Rideshare services are meant to be a service that helps people get to their destinations. While these have proven to be beneficial for many, they can result in catastrophic outcomes when there is an accident. Not only can a victim suffer injuries and property damage, but they may also find themselves trying to navigate complex legal issues when a rideshare company and driver are involved. In these cases, an Austin rideshare accident lawyer can represent you throughout the process.
About The Stewart Law Firm, PLLC
At The Stewart Law Firm, PLLC, we know that it takes more than just an initial verdict or settlement to help an injured Texan after a catastrophic accident.
With years of experience in the legal field, our personal injury law firm has represented thousands of accident victims over the decades. Our full-time availability, bilingual services, and no-recovery, no-fee guarantee are just a few of the ways we show our clients that justice should be affordable for all Texans.
Our firm’s founder, Stephen W. Stewart, is recognized by the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and Texas Super Lawyers. He provides our clients with compassionate, high-quality legal representation in Austin and all over Texas.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Texas
The urgency of app-based rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, often leads to a series of events that increase the likelihood of a collision on a crowded Austin road or highway. Rideshare drivers are often preoccupied with responding to multiple alerts and notifications from the app itself and on their navigation device.
In addition, the app takes over their focus at crucial moments when full attention is needed, such as maneuvering through congested intersections near I-35 or South Congress. Rideshare drivers often push themselves on late-night shifts to earn as much money as possible in one shift.
Overtired drivers have slower reaction times and less situational awareness, which increases the risk of a serious crash. If you are the victim of such an incident, you can file a rideshare accident claim at the Travis County Civil & Family Courts Facility.
Texas’s car accident fatality rate dropped in 2023 compared to the year before. In that same year, 18,765 people suffered serious injuries from 15,227 crashes in Texas. In 2023, there were 4,291 fatal traffic accidents and 250,489 injuries.
Understanding Relevant Rideshare Accident Laws
Per Texas Insurance Code §1954, Uber, Lyft, and similar rideshare services are legally required to maintain tiered liability insurance coverage for their drivers. This is in effect from the time they log into their apps and wait for a ride request. This requires a full $1 million liability insurance policy upon accepting a ride request or having a passenger in their vehicle.
When a driver is not logged into their rideshare app, any insurance claim from a car accident will be handled through the driver’s personal insurance policy if they have one. This is not as broad or comprehensive, and it can often open a case up for a legal fight. Texas also follows modified comparative fault, which can reduce a plaintiff’s case if they are partially found at fault for a crash.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Uber and Lyft drivers have an increased risk of being involved in a crash for a few reasons. While they’re on the job, they need to constantly check their app for ride requests, navigate unfamiliar areas, and meet strict time limits. Some of the most common reasons for rideshare accidents include:
- Driver fatigue. Driving for long periods of time, especially without taking breaks, can make drivers less attentive on the road and more likely to cause a crash.
- Distracted driving. For many Uber and Lyft drivers, one of the biggest hazards is having their attention pulled away from the road. They need to continuously rely on their phones and apps to find their routes, track ride requests, and communicate with passengers.
- Car troubles. When drivers use their own cars for work, they’re responsible for the maintenance of their vehicles, instead of a larger company.
An Austin rideshare accident attorney can look at the facts of your accident, determine the cause, and fight for the compensation you need.
FAQs
Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, hire a rideshare accident lawyer at The Stewart Law Firm, PLLC, as soon as possible. Contact us today for a consultation.
