San Antonio Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident? Let Kemmy Law Firm, P.C. Help You Seek Justice.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how people get around San Antonio. While convenient, these services are not without risk. With more Uber and Lyft drivers on the road, the likelihood of being involved in a rideshare-related accident—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver—has increased. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, you need an experienced rideshare accident lawyer to protect your rights and fight for full compensation.
At Kemmy Law Firm, P.C., we know how complicated rideshare accident claims can be. From determining liability to dealing with multiple insurance companies, these cases require specific legal knowledge. Our team is here to guide you through the process and aggressively pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. Since 1986, we have secured more than $200 million in settlements and awards for our clients.
Call (830) 264-6297 today or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our San Antonio Uber and Lyft accident attorney. Your recovery is our priority.
Rideshare Driving Laws in Texas
Texas has implemented several regulations to ensure rideshare services operate safely and responsibly. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are considered "Transportation Network Companies" (TNCs) and are governed by Texas House Bill 100, which took effect in 2017.
Here are some key points of the law:
- Driver Background Checks: TNCs must perform criminal background and driving history checks on all drivers.
- Vehicle Requirements: Vehicles used for ridesharing must meet specific safety and inspection standards.
- Insurance Requirements: TNCs are required to carry different levels of insurance coverage based on the driver’s status within the app (explained in the next section).
- Zero Tolerance Policies: Rideshare drivers are prohibited from operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on duty.
Understanding these laws is essential when filing a claim after an accident involving Uber or Lyft in San Antonio.
Who Is Liable for an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Determining who is financially responsible in a rideshare accident depends largely on the driver's status at the time of the crash. Here’s how liability and insurance coverage typically break down:
Driver Logged Off the App
If the rideshare driver is not logged into the app when the accident occurs, they are considered off duty. In this case, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy is solely responsible for covering any injuries or damages. Uber and Lyft are not liable in this scenario, as the driver was not actively working for the platform.
Driver Logged On, But No Ride Request Accepted
If the driver is logged into the app but hasn’t yet accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
This coverage kicks in only if the driver’s personal insurance does not apply or is insufficient.
Driver Accepted a Ride or Is Transporting a Passenger
Once the driver accepts a ride request or is carrying a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide primary liability insurance coverage of up to:
- $1 million in liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver has that coverage on their personal policy)
This is the highest level of coverage and is meant to protect both the driver and passengers involved in a crash.
Common Causes of Uber & Lyft Accidents in San Antonio
Rideshare crashes happen for many of the same reasons as other car accidents, but the nature of app-based driving introduces additional risks. Uber and Lyft drivers often rely heavily on navigation tools, mobile notifications, and real-time ride requests, which can increase distraction behind the wheel.
Some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers frequently check apps for new ride requests, directions, or rider messages.
- Driver fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours or drive late at night to maximize earnings.
- Speeding: Drivers may rush to pick up passengers quickly or complete more rides.
- Unfamiliar roads: Drivers often travel outside their normal neighborhoods and may not know traffic patterns.
- Unsafe stops: Sudden pickups or drop-offs in traffic-heavy areas can cause collisions.
- Congestion and aggressive driving: Downtown areas, entertainment districts, and highways see heavy rideshare activity.
Passenger Rights After a Rideshare Accident
Passengers generally have strong legal protections after a rideshare crash because they are rarely at fault. You may be entitled to compensation regardless of whether your driver, another motorist, or multiple parties caused the accident.
Passenger rights may include:
- Filing claims against multiple insurance policies
- Seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost income
- Pursuing damages for pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life
- Holding negligent drivers accountable
Passengers should never assume they are limited to one insurance claim—rideshare accidents often involve layered coverage.
Rideshare Accidents Involving Pedestrians & Cyclists
Not all rideshare accident victims are passengers. Pedestrians and cyclists are frequently injured when rideshare drivers stop abruptly, make illegal turns, or become distracted by app notifications.
These cases can involve:
- Crosswalk collisions
- Dooring incidents during passenger drop-offs
- Bicycle lane encroachments
- Failure to yield at intersections
Pedestrians and cyclists may be eligible to pursue claims through both the driver’s personal policy and the rideshare company’s insurance coverage.
Challenges Unique to Rideshare Accident Claims
Rideshare claims are more complex than traditional car accident cases because they involve corporate policies, multiple insurance carriers, and evolving regulations.
Common challenges include:
- Determining whether the driver was on duty
- Insurance companies disputing liability
- Accessing rideshare company data
- Corporate legal teams protecting company interests
- Confusion over contractor vs. employee status
Legal representation helps cut through these complications and protects your claim.
FAQs About Uber & Lyft Accidents in San Antonio, TX
What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident in San Antonio?
- Call 911 and seek medical attention.
- Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through the app.
- Gather evidence—take photos, get witness contact info, and note the driver’s details.
- Do not sign anything from the insurance company before consulting a lawyer.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
Generally, Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, which limits your ability to sue the company directly. However, you may be able to recover compensation through their insurance policies. In rare cases involving gross negligence or misconduct, further legal action against the company may be possible.
How long do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to act quickly to preserve your rights and evidence.
What types of compensation can I recover?
You may be eligible to recover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Future medical care
- Loss of enjoyment of life
An experienced San Antonio Uber and Lyft accident lawyer can evaluate your case and help you understand the full extent of your potential compensation.
What if I were partially at fault?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.
Contact a San Antonio Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in San Antonio, don’t try to handle the legal complexities alone. Let Kemmy Law Firm, P.C. advocate for your rights and secure the compensation you need to recover.
Contact our San Antonio rideshare accident attorneys at (830) 264-6297 to discuss your case and explore ways we can support your journey to justice.