Based in Boulder, CO, Jeffress Law represents people injured throughout Boulder, Longmont, Broomfield, and nearby Colorado communities. Christopher W. Jeffress has practiced law since 1991 and previously defended insurance companies before dedicating his work to injured individuals. Antwan D. Hampton, Jr. has experience in personal injury law, insurance defense, and criminal prosecution.
When the Driver’s Rideshare App Is Off
When an Uber or Lyft driver isn’t logged into the app, the crash is generally treated like another private motor vehicle accident. Their personal auto insurance is usually the first policy examined.
Disputes can arise when the insurer questions whether the driver was truly offline or was using the vehicle for rideshare work. App records, trip information, screenshots, and statements from those involved may help establish the driver’s status at the time of the collision.
When the Driver Is Waiting for a Request
A different coverage period begins when the driver logs into the app but hasn’t accepted a passenger request. Their personal insurer may still be involved, but limited liability coverage associated with Uber or Lyft may also apply when the personal policy doesn’t cover the loss.
This period often creates disagreements about which insurer should pay first. It’s important to establish the driver’s exact app status rather than relying on a general statement that they were “working.”
When a Ride Has Been Accepted
The rideshare company’s higher coverage generally applies once the driver accepts a request and remains in effect throughout the passenger’s ride. Colorado requires at least $1 million in primary liability coverage while the driver is engaged in a prearranged ride. The rideshare company must also secure uninsured motorist coverage of at least $200,000 per person and $400,000 per occurrence for the driver and passengers during that period.
The liability policy may cover an injured passenger, an occupant of another vehicle, a pedestrian, or a bicyclist when the rideshare driver caused the collision.
What if Another Driver Caused the Crash?
The Uber or Lyft driver isn’t always responsible. Another motorist’s liability policy may be the primary source of compensation when that person caused the accident.
Additional coverage may need to be considered when the responsible driver has no insurance or doesn’t have enough to cover your losses. Your own auto policy may also contain applicable benefits, depending on its terms and your role in the crash.
Getting Clear Answers About Available Coverage
Rideshare claims can involve the driver’s personal insurer, Uber or Lyft’s insurer, another motorist’s policy, and your own coverage. Medical expenses, missed income, future care, pain, and other losses should all be reviewed before you accept a settlement.
For help identifying which policies may apply, contact Jeffress Law at 303-993-8685. Christopher W. Jeffress and Antwan D. Hampton, Jr. serve injured people in Boulder, Fort Collins, Longmont, and Loveland, CO.
