Protecting Vulnerable Road Users After a Rideshare Collision
Houston, Pearland, and communities throughout Texas have seen significant growth in rideshare traffic. While Uber and Lyft provide convenient transportation options, rideshare drivers face unique challenges behind the wheel, including navigating unfamiliar roads, following GPS directions, locating passengers, and managing app-based trip information.
When a rideshare vehicle strikes a pedestrian, bicyclist, or scooter rider, the consequences can be devastating. People outside a vehicle have little protection from the force of a collision and may suffer serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
Why Rideshare Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Claims Can Be Complicated
Rideshare-Related Distractions
Rideshare drivers may encounter additional tasks while operating their vehicles, including:
- Following GPS navigation
- Locating passenger pickup and drop-off locations
- Responding to rideshare app notifications
- Traveling through unfamiliar areas
Any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the roadway can increase the risk of a collision with pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users.
Serious Injuries Are Common
Pedestrians and bicyclists are particularly vulnerable in traffic crashes. A collision with a motor vehicle may result in injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries
- Permanent disabilities
- Emotional trauma
These injuries can create significant medical expenses, lost income, and challenges that continue long after the accident.
Understanding Insurance Coverage After a Rideshare Accident
Texas regulates transportation network companies (TNCs), including Uber and Lyft, through Chapter 1954 of the Texas Insurance Code. The available insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status in the rideshare app at the time of the collision.
When a rideshare driver is actively transporting a passenger or has accepted a ride request and is traveling to pick up that passenger, the rideshare company’s commercial insurance may provide up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage for covered claims.
If a rideshare driver causes a pedestrian or bicycle accident, the injured person may be able to pursue compensation through available insurance coverage. The amount of compensation available depends on factors such as:
- Whether the driver was logged into the rideshare platform
- Whether the driver was actively engaged in a trip
- Who was legally responsible for the crash
- The applicable insurance policy terms
- The severity of the injuries
Proving Driver Negligence in a Rideshare Crash
Establishing what happened before a pedestrian or bicycle accident often requires a detailed investigation.
Evidence may include:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Surveillance footage
- Vehicle data
- Rideshare app records
- Cell phone evidence, when legally obtainable
- Accident reconstruction analysis
At Hildebrand & Wilson, LLP, our legal team investigates the circumstances surrounding rideshare collisions and works with qualified experts when necessary to determine how the accident occurred and who should be held responsible.
Injured by an Uber or Lyft Driver in Texas?
If you or a loved one was struck by an Uber or Lyft driver, you may have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages allowed under Texas law.
At Hildebrand & Wilson, LLP, we represent injured pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users throughout Pearland, Houston, Harris County, Brazoria County, Fort Bend County, and surrounding areas.
Contact Hildebrand & Wilson, LLP today to discuss your rideshare accident and learn what legal options may be available.