Houston Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Helping Injured Rideshare Drivers & Passengers in Texas

Ridesharing services have become increasingly popular in Houston and across the state of Texas. Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, allow individuals to use their private vehicles to provide transportation for others in exchange for money. Although these services are intended to provide a convenient and cost-effective method of transportation for both drivers and passengers, they can also expose both parties to significant risks of injury.

If you were injured in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle or if a loved one was killed in such a crash, you should not hesitate to contact a Houston rideshare accident lawyer at Potts Law Firm as soon as possible. Our team is prepared to investigate the details of your case and fight for the maximum compensation you are owed for your injuries and damages.

To schedule a free consultation, call (713) 348-9638 or contact us onlinetoday.

Rideshare Driving Laws in Texas

Rideshare services have gained immense popularity in Texas over the past decade. Major cities like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio have embraced these convenient alternatives to traditional taxi services. This popularity, though, has necessitated a robust regulatory framework to govern rideshare operations and ensure public safety.

Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) are organizations that connect passengers with drivers through a smartphone app. These companies, like Uber and Lyft, have disrupted the traditional taxi industry by offering a more convenient and often cost-effective alternative.

To become a rideshare driver in Texas, you must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driver's license. Additionally, your vehicle should be registered in Texas and have up-to-date inspection and insurance.

All prospective drivers must undergo a comprehensive background check, including criminal history, driving history, and a search of the National Sex Offender Registry. Drivers with certain convictions or offenses may be disqualified from becoming rideshare drivers.

How Insurance Coverage Works in a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare companies require drivers to maintain their own personal auto insurance that meets state minimum coverage requirements. However, most rideshare companies also provide additional coverage when drivers are actively engaged in a ride.

If you have been injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, how you can recover compensation will be based on the following situations:

• When the Driver Has Not Logged into the App: When a driver is not logged into the rideshare app, they are essentially driving their vehicle for personal reasons. In the event of an accident during this time, the driver's personal auto insurance policy typically applies.
• When the Driver Is Logged On the App but Hasn't Accepted a Ride: Texas legislation stipulates that rideshare giants such as Uber and Lyft must furnish the subsequent insurance coverage during this phase:
  • $50,000 per individual: This pertains to bodily injury liability coverage for an injury sustained by a single person.
  • $100,000 per incident: This covers bodily injury liability, extending to all injuries occurring within a single accident.
  • $25,000 per incident: This involves property damage liability coverage, safeguarding against any property damage caused by the rideshare driver.
• When a rideshare driver has accepted a ride request or is actively transporting a passenger to their destination, they are covered by the rideshare company's commercial auto insurance policy. In Texas, this coverage typically includes:
  • $1,000,000 in liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage per accident
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
  • Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (up to the actual cash value of the vehicle with a $1,000 deductible)

Why Should I Contact a Houston Rideshare Accident Attorney?

Injured rideshare drivers and passengers are often left with many questions after an accident occurs. Unfortunately, the rideshare service will not provide you with much information about your rights or how you can move forward with your claim. Our team at Potts Law Firm is available to answer all of your questions and provide you with the legal guidance you need to move forward with your case.

Our Houston rideshare accident attorneys can:

• Assist you in determining whether you have grounds to file a claim
• Help you navigate the insurance claim process
• Review all of the evidence, including police reports and rideshare communications
• Negotiate with the rideshare company on your behalf
• File and litigate personal injury claims in state and federal courts

Our team is prepared to investigate the details of your case and fight for the maximum compensation you are owed for your injuries and damages. Call (713) 348-9638 or contact us onlinetoday.