Rideshare Accident Attorney in Mesquite
Helping Victims Injured in an Accident With an Uber or Lyft Vehicle
Between 1.5 and 2 million rideshare drivers operate in the U.S., with many working for multiple companies. As rideshare drivers increase, so do accidents involving these vehicles. Discover how rideshare accident claims work and what you need to do to secure compensation for your damages.
What Laws Regulating Rideshare Drivers in Texas?
In 2017, Texas enacted laws regulating rideshare companies, also known as transportation network companies (TNCs). These companies connect passengers with nearby drivers through mobile apps. Drivers use their private vehicles as independent contractors rather than employees. The leading rideshare companies in the U.S. are Uber and Lyft.
Texas law mandates that rideshare drivers obtain a state permit. To qualify, drivers must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver’s license, have vehicle registration, and provide proof of insurance. They also need a clean background check, with no serious offenses in the past three years or more than three moving violations. Additionally, there are specific insurance coverage limits for drivers while operating.
Who Is Financially Responsible for a Rideshare Accident?
Determining financial responsibility in a rideshare accident can be complex. Generally, Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage when drivers are active on the app—meaning they’ve accepted a ride request or are currently transporting a passenger. If the driver is inactive, such as waiting for a request or logged off, their personal auto insurance usually covers any accidents.
How Much Is a Rideshare Accident Claim Worth?
Like other motor vehicle accident claims, a rideshare accident claim can include both economic and non-economic damages.
- Economic Damages: Tangible losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.
- Non-Economic Damages: Subjective impacts like pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
The value of a rideshare accident claim depends on the severity of the victim’s injuries and the extent of their financial and emotional losses. Generally, more serious injuries and significant damages lead to higher claim values. To get an accurate estimate, consult a rideshare accident attorney.
How Can a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Help?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be tricky, as responsibility shifts between the rideshare company and the driver based on their activity at the time of the crash. A skilled rideshare accident lawyer can investigate the incident to clarify what happened and assign liability to the correct party.
At the Oberg Law Office in Mesquite, Texas, Attorney Gregg Oberg and his team have successfully represented many rideshare accident victims, helping them secure fair compensation. If you’ve been injured while riding with an Uber or Lyft driver or had your vehicle damaged in a collision with a rideshare vehicle, call us at 972-682-9700 to learn how we can assist you.