Rideshare Reality: What to Do if Your Uber or Lyft Crashes in San Antonio

We've all been there. You're heading out for a night or catching a ride to the airport, and instead of driving yourself, you pull up the app and call an Uber or Lyft. It's convenient, it's easy, and it usually goes off without a hitch.

But what happens when that ride ends in a crash?

Navigating a rideshare accident is a lot more complicated than a standard car wreck because there are several layers of insurance involved -- and those layers change depending on exactly what was happening in the app at the moment of impact.

The Three Phases of Rideshare Insurance

Both Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the level of coverage depends on the driver's status at the time of the crash:

• Phase 1 -- App is on, no ride accepted: The driver has the app open and is waiting for a ride request. During this phase, limited liability coverage applies.
• Phase 2 -- Ride accepted, en route to pick up passenger: Higher coverage kicks in, including liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and contingent collision coverage.
• Phase 3 -- Passenger in the vehicle: This is when the maximum coverage applies. Uber and Lyft both carry $1 million in liability coverage during this phase.

What Should You Do If You're in a Rideshare Crash?

1. Call 911 -- Get a police report just like any other crash.
2. Get medical attention -- Even if you feel fine, get checked out.
3. Screenshot the app -- This shows you were on an active ride, which is critical for determining which insurance phase applies.
4. Document everything -- Photos of the scene, damage, and any injuries.
5. Contact an attorney -- Rideshare claims involve multiple insurance companies. Having someone who knows how to navigate these layers can make all the difference.

If you've been injured in a rideshare crash in San Antonio, don't try to navigate the insurance maze alone. Give me a call and I'll help you figure out your options.