Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to travel, but when accidents happen, determining who is financially responsible can be more complex than in a typical car crash. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in New Jersey—either as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver—it’s important to understand how the Uber or Lyft driver’s app status at the time of the crash directly affects liability and insurance coverage.
At Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC, our South Jersey Uber and Lyft accident lawyers are experienced in handling the unique challenges that come with rideshare crash cases. We help clients throughout Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, and Atlantic Counties recover the compensation they deserve.
Why Does App Status Matter?
Whether an Uber or Lyft driver is logged into the app—and what phase of a ride they’re in—determines which insurance coverage is triggered after an accident. Here’s how coverage typically breaks down based on app status:
Driver App Is Off
If the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, they are considered to be operating their vehicle for personal use. In this case, only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. If their policy lacks adequate coverage or specifically excludes coverage during commercial driving, you may need to turn to your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy or file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Driver Is Logged In and Available
When a driver is online and waiting for a ride request, limited liability coverage from the rideshare company becomes available:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
This kicks in only if the driver’s personal insurance does not apply or is insufficient.
Driver Is Logged In and Available
Once the driver accepts a ride and is en route to pick up a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide expanded commercial coverage, including:
- Up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage with a $2,500 deductible (if the driver has full coverage)
Ride Is in Progress
If an accident occurs while a passenger is in the vehicle, Uber or Lyft’s full commercial insurance policy applies:
- $1 million liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist protection
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage
What Happens If App Data Is Inaccurate?
One complication in rideshare accident cases is technical delays or glitches in the app. A driver may have accepted a ride moments before the crash, but the app’s timestamp could show a delay. Insurance companies may attempt to deny coverage based on this discrepancy.
In these cases, our South Jersey Uber and Lyft accident lawyers investigate thoroughly, obtaining:
- GPS tracking data
- App usage logs
- Phone and data records
- Platform audit trails from Uber or Lyft
This evidence can be critical in proving that a driver was active on the app at the time of the crash and that higher insurance coverage should apply.
What If the Rideshare Driver Was Not at Fault?
Rideshare drivers are often victims of accidents caused by other negligent motorists. If you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft and a third-party driver caused the crash, you may file a claim with that at-fault driver’s insurance company. Depending on their coverage limits, you may also have access to Uber or Lyft’s underinsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver’s policy doesn’t cover your medical expenses or other losses.
In either scenario, an experienced rideshare accident attorney will guide you through the insurance claims process and protect your right to full compensation.
Why You Need a South Jersey Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer
Rideshare accidents involve layers of liability and overlapping insurance policies. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, getting the coverage you deserve often requires a detailed understanding of how Uber and Lyft’s insurance systems work—and a strong legal advocate to fight for you.
At Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC, our team:
- Investigates driver activity and app status.
- Identifies all potential insurance policies.
- Negotiates aggressively with insurance adjusters.
- Represents you in court, if necessary.
Injured in a Rideshare Accident? Call the South Jersey Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC
If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft, don’t wait to get legal help. The South Jersey Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC are here to help. To schedule a free consultation, call 732-920-8383 or contact us online. Located in Brick and Manasquan, New Jersey, we serve clients across the state.