Corpus Christi Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Fighting for Victims of Uber & Lyft Accidents in Corpus Christi, TX

In the past two decades, rideshare transportation has been one of the leading technological advancements that has transformed our society. As a cost-effective and convenient way of traveling from point A to point B without a personal vehicle, many individuals in the United States regularly use apps like Uber and Lyft. However, this increase in rideshare usability also means that more vehicles are present on the road, and more vehicles generally mean more accidents.

Without an attorney who is familiar with cases involving Uber or Lyft, your rights and compensation are at risk. The defense will try to discredit your claim and downplay the severity of your injuries. When you are pursuing legal action against another party or parties, contact Hilliard Law. We take pride in providing responsive and knowledgeable legal guidance to our clients in these and other complex personal injury matters.

Whether you were in the rideshare vehicle at the time of the accident or were hit by a rideshare vehicle, you have the right to hold the negligent party or parties responsible for your injuries and property damage. Our Corpus Christi rideshare accident lawyers have many years of experience protecting and fighting for our clients. We understand your legal, medical, and financial challenges and will use our resources and knowledge to provide you with results-oriented legal representation for your claim. 

If our firm takes your case, you will owe us nothing unless we win, so schedule your free initial consultation today.

Speak with one of our team members to learn more about your legal options today by calling (866) 927-3420  or contacting us online. 

Rideshare Laws in Texas

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are considered Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) under Texas law. In 2017, Texas passed statewide legislation that regulates how rideshare companies operate, replacing the patchwork of city-by-city regulations. Key requirements include:

• Insurance Coverage – Uber and Lyft must provide specific insurance protections depending on the driver’s status in the app.
• Background Checks – Drivers must pass criminal and driving record checks before being allowed to drive.
• Vehicle Requirements – Vehicles must meet safety standards and undergo inspections.

These laws were created to ensure passenger safety while holding rideshare companies accountable when accidents occur. However, pursuing a claim against a rideshare company is rarely straightforward, which is why having an experienced Corpus Christi rideshare accident lawyer is essential.

Who is Liable for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Liability in rideshare accidents depends heavily on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. Uber and Lyft both carry layered insurance policies that activate differently depending on whether the driver is logged off, waiting for a ride, or actively transporting a passenger.

 Driver Logged Off the App

If the rideshare driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, they are considered a regular driver. In this case:

• Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
• Uber and Lyft’s corporate insurance policies do not cover the accident.

Driver Logged On but Waiting for a Ride Request

If the driver is logged into the app and available to accept rides but hasn’t accepted a trip, Uber and Lyft provide contingent coverage if the driver’s personal policy doesn’t apply. This coverage includes:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury.
• $100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
• $25,000 for property damage.

This insurance is secondary, meaning it only kicks in if the driver’s personal insurance refuses or is insufficient.

Driver Accepted a Ride or Transporting a Passenger

Once the driver has accepted a ride request or has a passenger in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide their highest level of coverage:

• $1 million in third-party liability coverage.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
• Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver also has such coverage on their personal policy).

This policy is designed to protect not only passengers but also other motorists, pedestrians, or cyclists injured in a rideshare accident.

Because multiple insurance companies may be involved, rideshare accident claims are often more complex than standard car accident cases. That’s why working with our Corpus Christi rideshare accident lawyer can help maximize your recovery.

Common Causes of Uber & Lyft Accidents

Like any auto accident, rideshare crashes can occur for many reasons. Some of the most common include:

• Distracted driving (especially using the rideshare app while driving)
• Speeding to pick up or drop off passengers quickly
• Fatigue from long driving shifts
• Reckless or aggressive driving
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Negligent drivers of other vehicles

Regardless of the cause, victims of rideshare accidents deserve fair compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Compensation After a Rideshare Accident

If you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Corpus Christi, you may be entitled to compensation such as:

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed in a rideshare accident)

Determining who pays for these damages—whether it’s the driver’s insurance, Uber or Lyft’s insurance, or a combination—requires a thorough investigation.

Uber & Lyft Accident Claim FAQs

What should I do after an Uber or Lyft accident in Corpus Christi?

• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Call the police and file an accident report.
• Take photos and gather contact information from everyone involved.
• Report the crash through the Uber or Lyft app.
• Contact a rideshare accident lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?

In most cases, you will file a claim against the rideshare company’s insurance policy, not Uber or Lyft as a company. Direct lawsuits against these corporations are rare and usually unsuccessful due to how drivers are classified as independent contractors.

Am I covered as a passenger in a rideshare?

Yes. Passengers are generally covered under Uber or Lyft’s $1 million liability policy if the accident occurred while the trip was active.

What if another driver caused the accident?

If another driver is at fault, you may file a claim against that driver’s insurance. If they are uninsured or underinsured, Uber and Lyft’s coverage may apply.

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in Texas?

Texas law generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, it’s best to begin the process as soon as possible while the evidence is fresh.

Call our Corpus Christi rideshare accident lawyers at (866) 927-3420 or contact us online  today.