Who Pays After a Rideshare Collision?

Rideshare vehicles are beneficial for many parties. Rideshare companies secure revenue by facilitating trips. The independent contractors who drive for them can control their work schedules or augment the wages they earn at a traditional job. People traveling to unfamiliar areas or feeling unsafe to drive can still secure on-demand transportation.

Unfortunately, not every rideshare trip is a positive experience. In some cases, rideshare trips result in major motor vehicle collisions. When that happens, the passenger in the rideshare vehicle may have questions about their rights. Particularly if they sustain property damage losses or injuries, they may need to seek compensation after the crash.

What are some of the sources of compensation available to those involved in rideshare collisions?

Personal No-Fault Insurance

Michigan has a relatively complicated car insurance system. Many people who have their own vehicles carry no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. They may be able to use their own policies for support after a crash even though they weren't driving at the time of the collision.

Rideshare Coverage

People using their own vehicles for business purposes usually have to carry special supplementary coverage. Rideshare insurance coverage applies in scenarios where the rideshare driver is technically at fault. If the crash occurred before the rideshare driver started the actual trip or after they ended the trip, their rideshare policy might cover the passenger's losses.

A Corporate Insurance Policy

Both of the major rideshare companies carry large liability insurance policies. Passengers hurt during rideshare trips may be able to file claims against that coverage for compensation.

Another Driver's Policy

The rideshare driver might not actually be at fault for the crash. In scenarios where another driver hits a rideshare vehicle, their liability coverage could help reimburse the passenger in the rideshare vehicle.

In some cases, it may be necessary to take legal action to secure adequate compensation, particularly if the collision causes substantial injuries. Reviewing the circumstances surrounding a recent rideshare crash with a skilled legal team can help people evaluate their options. There may be several different sources of compensation available depending on the details of the situation.

Can I use my own car insurance after a rideshare accident?

Yes, if you carry no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) coverage in Michigan, you may be able to use your own policy for support after a rideshare crash, even though you weren't driving at the time of the collision.

Does the rideshare company's insurance cover passengers?

Both major rideshare companies carry large liability insurance policies that may cover passengers hurt during rideshare trips. The availability of this coverage depends on whether the driver was actively engaged in a trip at the time of the accident.

What if another driver caused the rideshare accident?

If another driver is at fault for hitting the rideshare vehicle, their liability coverage could help reimburse you as a passenger in the rideshare vehicle. Multiple insurance policies may be available depending on the circumstances.

When does rideshare insurance coverage apply?

Rideshare insurance coverage typically applies when the rideshare driver is at fault. However, coverage may vary depending on whether the crash occurred before the trip started, during the trip, or after the trip ended.

Do I need a lawyer for a rideshare accident claim?

If the collision causes substantial injuries or involves complex insurance issues, it may be necessary to take legal action to secure adequate compensation. Reviewing your case with a skilled legal team can help you evaluate all available options and sources of compensation.