When Does Uber’s Insurance Coverage Apply?
The application of insurance coverage for Uber drivers typically depends on the driver’s status within the Uber app:
Offline Mode
When an Uber driver is offline and not actively engaged in providing rideshare services, their personal auto insurance policy applies. During this time, Uber’s insurance coverage is not in effect, and any accidents would be handled through the driver’s personal insurance provider.
Available Mode
When an Uber driver is online and available to accept ride requests but has not yet accepted a trip, Uber provides contingent liability coverage with limits of $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage. This coverage is secondary to the driver’s personal auto insurance policy (own insurance company coverage).
En Route Mode
Once an Uber driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger or during the trip itself, Uber’s commercial insurance policy applies. This policy provides primary coverage up to $1 million in liability coverage for bodily injury, property damage, and other liabilities arising from accidents that occur while the driver is actively engaged in ridesharing activities.
Uber’s Legal Obligations in Rio Grande Valley for Road Safety
Uber Driver Eligibility Requirements
- At least 21 years old (for Lyft the minimum age is 25)
- 1 year of driving experience (3 years if under age 25)
- Passed background check
- Passed DMV check
- Valid driver’s license
- Sufficient car insurance
- Vehicle registered in the State of Texas
- Smartphone for driving app
Uber has minimum star ratings for each driving level
- UberX/UberXL: 4.6 stars
- Uber Select: 4.75 stars
- Uber Black/Uber SUV: 4.85 stars
Uber Vehicle Standard Requirements in Rio Grande Valley
Uber vehicle standards in Texas require that any vehicle used for Uber services, regardless of the service level, must be under 10 years old (in some cities, this limit is extended to 15 years) and in good condition.
The vehicle must have four doors and enough factory-installed seats and seat belts to accommodate at least five passengers, including the driver. In addition, Uber drivers must have Texas-specific insurance and registration for their vehicles. However, drivers do not need to be registered in a specific city to work as a rideshare driver there.
In cases where the accident results in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death, our car accident lawyers and rideshare accident attorney in Rio Grande Valley may recommend suing Uber to maximize compensation for the victim.
When Our Rideshare Accident Attorney in Rio Grande Valley May Sue Uber to Maximize Your Compensation
Some scenarios where our car accident lawyer may recommend pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against Uber include:
Negligent Hiring or Training: If Uber failed to conduct adequate background checks, review medical records, or provide proper training to its drivers, resulting in an accident, the company may be held liable for negligent hiring or training practices.
Defective Vehicle Maintenance: If the accident was caused by a mechanical failure or defect in the rideshare vehicle, Uber may be held accountable for failing to ensure the vehicle’s safety and maintenance.
Driver Misconduct: In cases where the Uber driver’s reckless or negligent actions directly contributed to the accident, and Uber was aware of the driver’s history of negligence, it may be held vicariously liable for the driver’s conduct.
Get Legal Representation from Our Rideshare Accident Attorney in the Rio Grande Valley
Don’t let rideshare companies off the hook for their negligence. If you or someone you love has been injured in a rideshare accident in the Rio Grande Valley, you need aggressive legal representation from Tijerina Legal Group, a leading personal injury law firm. Our experienced Rio Grande Valley rideshare accident attorneys and auto accident lawyers know how to hold Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies accountable for their actions. We will find the evidence to prove liability and fight relentlessly to achieve a fair settlement for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To schedule your free consultation, give us a call at (956) 777-7770 or contact us online.
