Houston Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have completely revolutionized transportation around the world. With the touch of your phone screen, you can have a peer-reviewed driver at your doorstep in minutes.

The driver will take you to your required destination with no need to physically exchange money or explain complicated directions to an unknown location.

Ride share apps are an effective solution to the problem of how to get from here to there as quickly, easily, and inexpensively as possible. But convenience doesn’t always equal safety and can result in personal injuries affecting you for the rest of your life.

What is a Ride Share Accident in Houston?

It is a well-known fact that getting into a vehicle, whether or not you are behind the wheel, comes with certain risks.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), approximately 40,000 people were killed and about 4.5 million were seriously injured in car accidents in 2018. As the rate of Uber and Lyft drivers grows, so do accidents involving ride-share app drivers and their passengers.

Ride share drivers are at risk of being involved in a wreck just like all other drivers. In fact, a 2018 report from a team at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business estimated a two to three percent increase in overall car accident fatalities due to ride-sharing services.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, a Houston rideshare accident lawyer will help you determine the next steps if you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident.

The reported uptick in accidents may be because there are more vehicles on the road with the increase in ride-share popularity. But distracted driving is another likely factor.

Uber and Lyft drivers spend an average of 60 percent of their behind-the-wheel time “deadheading,” which means searching for customers. While deadheading, they are actively using the app, navigating, and engaged in other distracting activities.

Difference Between a Taxi and a Rideshare Vehicle

While both taxis and rideshare services offer on-demand transportation, key differences can influence your decision on which service to use in Houston. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose:

Feature	Taxi Service	Rideshare Service
Regulations & Licensing	Heavily Regulated	Less Regulated
Finding a Ride	Hailing/Taxi Stands/Phone Call	Mobile App
Fares & Payment	Metered Fare (Distance & Time)	Pre-Determined Fare
Availability	Lower Availability	Higher Availability
Additional Considerations	Cash/Credit Card	Credit Card (App)

Important Texas Rideshare Laws & Regulations

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become popular transportation options in Houston and Texas. However, unlike traditional taxis, these services operate under a specific regulatory framework established by the state. 

Here’s a breakdown of some essential resources to understand Texas rideshare laws and regulations:

CHAPTER 2402.  TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANIES

This chapter of the Texas Occupations Code outlines the legal definitions and requirements for Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), the official term for rideshare services. It details the licensing process for TNCs operating in the state, insurance requirements for drivers, and passenger safety protocols.

Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation Information

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees state TNC operations. Their website provides a dedicated rideshare information section. You can find information about driver background checks, vehicle requirements, and passenger complaint procedures here.

H.B. No. 100 (House Bill No. 100):

This legislation, passed in 2017, established a comprehensive regulatory framework for rideshare companies in Texas. It addressed concerns regarding local regulations conflicting with statewide standards and ensured consistency across the state.

Texas Rideshare Regulations By Uber

Uber’s blog post offers a breakdown of Texas rideshare regulations from the perspective of a significant rideshare provider. This can help understand how Uber interprets explicitly and adheres to the legal framework.

How a Houston Ride Share Accident Attorney Can Help

Seeking legal counsel is prudent following any type of motor vehicle accident, but cases involving ride share services can be particularly complex. In an ordinary car accident, the claim is generally against the at-fault driver.

In Uber and Lyft accidents, however, the fact that the driver is working at the time of the accident results in myriad complications, including insurance exclusions and the question of employer liability.

If the driver does not have a commercial policy, his/her personal policy is unlikely to cover a ride share accident because it doesn’t fall under the category of personal use.

In response to this problem, both Uber and Lyft provide liability insurance to their drivers.

As such, in most cases involving ride share services, the claim will be against Uber or Lyft, not the at-fault driver.

This may sound straightforward, but keep in mind that these large corporate entities are excellent at holding onto their money. They will do everything possible to avoid paying claims. Having an injury attorney with extensive experience in ride share wrecks is essential.

At DeHoyos Injury Law, we understand the complexities inherent in accidents involving ride share apps. Our experienced, knowledgeable attorneys will analyze the details of your case to determine the best legal strategy, and we’ll be by your side throughout the entire process. Contact us today at (832) 745-4878 for a free and confidential consultation about your case.

A ride share wreck lawyer can investigate your case, find expert witnesses, determine liability, negotiate with insurers, and gather important evidence to substantiate your case.

Factors Involved in a Ridesharing Accident (or Ride-sharing Accident)

Ridesharing offers a convenient way to get around, but accidents can still happen. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common factors that contribute to rideshare accidents:

Speeding

Some drivers exceed speed limits to maximize fares or complete more rides, increasing the risk of accidents.

Driver Inexperience

New rideshare drivers may not be familiar with the roads or lack the experience to handle complex driving situations, like navigating busy intersections or handling adverse weather conditions.

Driving Drowsy

Long hours behind the wheel can lead to fatigue, which can impact a driver’s reaction time and increase the risk of an accident.

DUI

Unfortunately, some rideshare drivers operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs, significantly impairing their driving ability.

Failure to Obey Traffic Signs and Signals

Ignoring traffic signals, stop signs, or yield signs can lead to dangerous situations and collisions.

Driving Distracted

Rideshare drivers can become distracted while using the rideshare app, navigating with GPS, or engaging with passengers. Texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving can all divert a driver’s attention from the road.

Driver Violence

While rare, there have been instances of rideshare drivers intentionally harming passengers.

Uber and Lyft Insurance Policies in Texas

Uber and Lyft provide drivers with similar liability policies, which are equally full of exclusions and coverage limits.

• Coverage is only provided if the driver is logged into the ride-share app.
• Limited coverage ($50,000 per injured person, $100,000 total liability) is provided if the driver is logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride request.
• Up to $1 million in liability coverage is provided when the driver is en route to a pick-up, or the rider is in the vehicle.

If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, a Houston rideshare accident lawyer can help you protect your rights and recover the compensation you deserve. Dealing with insurance companies following a rideshare accident can be a nightmare.

Let the legal team at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys handle this overwhelming process on your behalf. You’ve been through enough. Let us do the rest.

Rideshare Car Accident Statistics in the United States

According to a 2018 report from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business, rideshare services may be linked to a two to three percent increase in overall car accident fatalities. 

While a definitive causal link hasn’t been established, the rise in rideshare usage coincides with an uptick in accidents.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a central source that tracks rideshare accidents specifically. However, general accident statistics paint a concerning picture. 

The National Safety Council (NSC) reported that approximately 40,000 people were killed and 4.5 million were seriously injured in car accidents in 2018.

Experiencing a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. Knowing the correct steps can protect your rights and increase your chances of a successful claim.

Call the Police

This is crucial for obtaining medical assistance and creating an official police report of the accident.

Gather Evidence from the Crash Scene

Exchange contact and insurance details with all involved parties, including the rideshare driver, other drivers, and witnesses

Document the Scene: 

Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. This visual evidence can be invaluable.

Seek Medical Treatment

Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to see a doctor. Some injuries may not be apparent immediately.

Do Not Speak to the Insurance Companies

Avoid making statements that could be construed as admitting fault.

Before speaking with any insurance company, consult with an attorney. Insurance adjusters may gather information to minimize your claim.

Speak to a Houston rideshare accident lawyer.

Don’t face this alone. Contact a Houston rideshare accident lawyer today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

Can I Handle an Insurance Claim Against Uber or Lyft Myself?

Every accident is unique, and the best course of action may vary depending on the circumstances. Consulting with an attorney can provide personalized guidance and support.

The Process for Filing a Claim After a Ride Share Accident in Houston

If you suffer damages in a ride share accident, the first step in the claims process is to determine liability. Was your ride share driver at fault? Was another driver at fault? Can you sue Uber or Lyft? As with all accidents, the question of liability is dependent on multiple factors.

A Houston rideshare accident attorney can help you determine the next steps if you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident.

After an accident, the only thing you should be focused on is healing. Your attorney will report the accident to Uber or Lyft and contact all insurance companies on your behalf. In ride share accidents, it is common for three or more insurers to be involved. Depending on the particulars of the accident, your attorney may need to contact the driver’s insurer, the Uber or Lyft insurer, and the insurer of other drivers involved.

If the ride share driver or other at-fault drivers are uninsured or under insured, you may be able to file a claim under the million-dollar insurance policy provided by Uber or Lyft.

Damages You Can Receive in a Houston Ride Share Wreck

If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be able to seek compensation for any damages suffered. The most common damages in these cases include:

• Medical expenses, including ambulance and emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, doctor visits, prescription medications, physical therapy, and durable medical equipment
• Future medical expenses
• Current and future lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability
• Property damage
• Wrongful death

Following a ride share accident, a Houston personal injury attorney can help you determine liability, deal with the insurance companies, and gather evidence to substantiate your claim. The amount and type of damages you can obtain are largely dependent on the particulars of your case. Having the right attorney by your side can be the difference between a denied claim and a substantial out-of-court settlement.

What Houston DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Can Do to Help

Once you become our client, we will handle all the details of your claim, including:

Handling a rideshare accident claim can be complex. An experienced lawyer can:

Investigate the Accident: 

Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident to determine liability.

Handle Insurance Claims: 

Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to maximize your compensation.

Provide Legal Counsel: 

Guide you through the legal process, explaining your rights and options.

Represent Your Interests: 

Advocate for your best interests and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Who’s Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties: the driver, the rideshare company, and potentially other drivers involved in the accident.

Here are some factors that influence liability:

The driver’s actions: 

If the driver caused the accident due to negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or drunk driving, they may be liable.

The rideshare company’s role:

Rideshare companies can be liable if they fail to screen, train, or supervise their drivers properly.

Actions of other drivers: 

If another driver caused the accident, they may be liable for the damages.

It’s crucial to consult with a rideshare accident lawyer to determine liability in your specific case.

Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Today to Speak with a Houston Rideshare Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a ride-share wreck, the skilled legal team at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help. Our attorneys understand the complexities of motor vehicle accidents involving Uber or Lyft. They will position you for the most favorable outcome possible.

Do not attempt to go through this complicated process alone. We can help you obtain the compensation you deserve so that you can get on with your life. Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys today at (832) 745-4878 for a free and confidential consultation about your case.

Houston Rideshare Accident FAQs

What if the rideshare driver was not logged into the app at the time of the accident?

The driver’s personal insurance policy may apply in this situation. However, the specific circumstances of the accident will determine liability.

How long must I file a lawsuit after a rideshare accident in Houston?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is typically two years. It’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand specific deadlines and take advantage of potential compensation.

Can passengers in a rideshare vehicle file a claim for injuries?

Yes, passengers injured in a rideshare accident can file a claim for damages. The rideshare company’s insurance policy may cover injuries to passengers.

What compensation can I seek after a rideshare accident in Houston?

Potential compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in severe cases, wrongful death.

Do rideshare companies have special rules for handling accident claims in Houston?

Yes, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have specific insurance policies and procedures for handling accident claims. Understanding these policies and how they might affect your claim is essential.