TEXAS RIDESHARE ACCIDENT FAQS

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Texas, you likely have numerous questions about your next steps and your legal rights. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand what to do and what your rights are.

  1. Ensure Safety First: Your immediate safety should be the top priority. Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
  2. Call 911: Report the accident to the police and seek medical attention if needed, even if injuries seem minor.
  3. Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from all parties involved, including witnesses.
  4. Report the Accident:
  • If you’re a passenger, report the incident to the rideshare company using their app.
  • If you’re a driver, notify your insurance company and the rideshare service if you were driving for them at the time.
  • At-Fault Driver’s Insurance: Texas operates under a fault-based system, meaning the at-fault party’s insurance is primarily responsible for covering damages.
  • Rideshare Company Insurance:
  • If the rideshare driver is at fault, the rideshare company typically provides insurance coverage, but it depends on whether they were logged into the app or actively carrying a passenger.
  • Personal Insurance:
  • A rideshare driver’s personal auto insurance usually doesn’t cover accidents occurring during rideshare operations unless the driver has specific rideshare coverage.
  • Rideshare Coverage:
  • Period 1 (App on, no ride accepted): Limited liability coverage.
  • Period 2 (Ride accepted, en route to pick up): More extensive liability coverage.
  • Period 3 (Passenger in vehicle): Comprehensive coverage from the rideshare company.
  • Passenger Insurance:
  • Passengers are typically covered under the rideshare company’s insurance during the ride.
  1. Consult with a Lawyer: Before proceeding, consult with an attorney experienced in rideshare accidents to explore your options.
  2. File an Insurance Claim:
  • Start with the at-fault party’s insurance.
  • Notify the rideshare company to access their coverage.

3. Consider a Lawsuit:

  • If insurance doesn’t cover all losses, you may need to file a lawsuit. Be mindful of Texas’ statutes of limitations.
  • Police Reports and Witness Statements:
  • Help establish fault.
  • Insurance Investigation:
  • Each insurance company will conduct its own investigation to determine fault.
  • Comparative Negligence:
  • Texas employs this rule, meaning damages can be adjusted based on each party’s degree of fault.
  • Right to Compensation:
  • You are entitled to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
  • Right to Legal Representation:
  • You can hire an attorney to represent your interests and help you understand your legal options.
  • Right to Information:
  • You have the right to obtain accident reports and information related to the insurance coverage involved.

By understanding these key aspects, rideshare passengers and personal vehicle drivers involved in an accident in Texas can make informed decisions and protect their rights. If you’re looking to proceed with a claim, reach out to a legal professional with experience in this domain to guide you through the process.