Passengers usually have very little control over how a rideshare crash occurs. You may be sitting in the back seat when your driver rear-ends another car, runs a red light, or gets struck by a negligent motorist.
Even when the passenger clearly did nothing wrong, the insurance process can still become complicated because more than one driver and insurance policy may be involved.
Led by Preston Rezaee, Esq., The Firm is a premier personal injury law practice in Las Vegas, dedicated to delivering justice for accident victims. With a reputation for relentless advocacy and client-focused representation, The Firm ensures injured individuals receive the compensation they deserve.
Rideshare cases can involve the rideshare driver’s personal insurance, coverage associated with the transportation network company, and another at-fault driver’s policy.
Passenger Claims Are Different
In many crashes, drivers dispute fault.
A rideshare passenger is often not accused of causing the collision.
The main issues may instead be:
- Which driver was negligent
- Which insurance policy applies
- How severe the injuries are
- Whether treatment is related
- What damages are recoverable
When the Rideshare Driver Is at Fault
Examples include:
- Rear-ending traffic
- Unsafe lane changes
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Running a red light
- Driving while fatigued
App use can itself create distraction.
When Another Driver Is at Fault
A second vehicle may:
- Run a red light
- Rear-end the rideshare
- Turn into its path
- Drive impaired
The passenger may pursue a claim against that driver.
When Both Drivers Share Fault
Nevada comparative negligence may allow fault to be divided.
A passenger’s claim may therefore involve two liability carriers.
Rideshare Insurance
Insurance can depend on the driver’s status in the app.
Coverage issues may involve whether the driver:
- Was offline
- Was waiting for a request
- Had accepted a ride
- Was transporting a passenger
The exact policy should be obtained and reviewed.
App Records
Important electronic evidence includes:
- Ride receipt
- Pickup time
- Drop-off destination
- Route
- Driver identity
- Trip status
Screenshot the ride immediately after a collision.
Driver Fatigue
Rideshare drivers may work long hours or combine rideshare work with another job.
Fatigue can contribute to:
- Slow reaction time
- Lane drifting
- Missed signals
- Rear-end collisions
Distracted Driving
Drivers may interact with:
- Navigation
- Ride requests
- Messages
- Passenger information
Phone and app data can become relevant.
What Passengers Should Do
After a crash:
- Seek medical care.
- Call police.
- Screenshot the ride.
- Photograph both vehicles.
- Obtain all drivers’ insurance.
- Identify witnesses.
- Report the collision through the app.
Do Not Assume the App Report Is Enough
An internal rideshare report is not a substitute for:
- Police documentation
- Medical records
- Evidence preservation
Common Injuries
Passengers may suffer:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Spinal injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee injuries
- Fractures
- Internal trauma
Seat Belt Arguments
Insurers may examine whether a passenger wore a seat belt.
The legal effect depends on Nevada law and the circumstances.
That issue should not replace investigation of who caused the crash.
Multiple Insurance Companies
One insurer may blame another.
Passengers may receive conflicting communications.
An attorney can coordinate the claims.
Uninsured Drivers
If another driver is uninsured or underinsured, rideshare or passenger coverage issues may become important.
Compensation
Potential damages include:
- Medical bills
- Future care
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent impairment
How The Firm Helps
The Firm assists by:
- Preserving ride data
- Identifying policies
- Investigating both drivers
- Coordinating insurers
- Gathering medical records
- Calculating damages
- Pursuing litigation
Why Acting Quickly Matters
App data, surveillance, and dashcam recordings may be temporary.
Drivers may also repair vehicles quickly.
Conclusion
A rideshare passenger may have done nothing to cause the accident and still face a complicated insurance process. Determining which driver was responsible and which coverage applies is essential.
Saving app records, obtaining medical care, and investigating all available insurance can help protect the passenger’s claim.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. The content is based on the author’s understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing and is not tailored to the specific circumstances of any individual or entity.
Nothing in this article should be construed as creating an attorney-client relationship or as a substitute for seeking legal advice from a licensed attorney. Legal matters can be complex and vary greatly depending on the jurisdiction and the specifics of the case. Therefore, we strongly encourage readers to consult with qualified legal counsel for advice regarding their individual circumstances.
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