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What Happens If You Are in an Accident While Driving for Lyft or Uber?

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Things change when driving for a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. Apps like Uber maintain an auto insurance policy on your behalf and cover you up to certain policy limits depending on the nature of the incident. Here is what you need to know about each scenario.

When you are driving on your own time, and the Uber app is off, Uber will not cover you for any accident that may occur. Uber will only cover you when you are using their app and in the process of finding or completing a ride. It is to be noted that Uber’s insurance policies differ whether you are in New York City versus the rest of New York State. Here, we will break down both policies.

If you are driving an Uber in New York City, you must obtain a New York City Taxi and Commercial License, and then obtain commercial insurance.

When driving throughout the rest of New Yorks State, the following policies apply:

When your app is on and you are looking to find a new passenger, Uber will cover you up to these policy amounts:

Third-party liability if your personal auto insurance doesn’t apply

  • $75,000 in bodily injury per person
  • $150,000 in bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 in property damage per accident

Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury

  • $25,000 in bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 in bodily injury per accident
  • $50,000 death per person
  • $100,000 death per accident

Personal Injury Protection

  • $50,000 per insured person

When you have an accepted rider and are either driving them, or on your way to picking them up, Uber’s auto insurance will cover you up to these policy limits.

  • $1,250,000 third-party liability
  • $1,250,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury
  • $50,000 Personal Injury Protection per person
  • Contingent comprehensive and collision
  • Up to actual cash value of car with a $2,500 deductible

Even though Uber and Lyft have comprehensive insurance, you still must report the accident to your own insurance company. Because there are multiple companies and parties to deal with, it is advisable that you seek legal help. For further advice on negotiating this complicated minefield, contact us at KI PI.

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This information is the most up to date news available as of the date posted. Please be advised that any information posted on the KI Legal Blog or Social Channels is being supplied for informational purposes only and is subject to change at any time. For more information, and clarity surrounding your individual organization or current situation, contact a member of the KI Legal team

KI Legal Personal Injury fights for victims of a wide array of personal injury claims, from Motor Vehicle Accidents to Scaffolding and Ladder Falls to Slip/Trip & Falls, amongst others. By leveraging its multidisciplinary foundation and, with the help of its experienced litigators, KI Legal Personal Injury can fight for the results and compensation that victims deserve without pushing for premature settlements due to financial reasons. This financial paradigm shift swings the pendulum in our favor when it comes to negotiating with insurance carriers, inherently leading to better results for clients. For the latest updates.

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