Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how people travel, offering convenience and accessibility across Arizona.
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However, determining who is responsible for damages can be complex when accidents occur. Liability depends on the driver’s status during the accident, and Arizona has specific laws governing these cases.
If you’ve been involved in a ride-share accident, whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, understanding your rights can help you navigate the claims process and seek compensation.
How Liability Works in Arizona Ride-share Accidents
Liability in a ride-share accident depends on whether the driver was actively using the app and accepting passengers. Here’s how Arizona law defines coverage:
1. When the Driver is OFF the Ride-share App
- If the driver is not logged into the ride-share app, they are considered a regular driver, and their auto insurance policy applies.
- In Arizona, personal insurance must meet the state minimum requirements:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $15,000 for property damage
2. When the Driver is ON the App but Hasn’t Accepted a Ride
- Once a driver logs into the ride-share app but has not yet accepted a ride request, their personal insurance and the company’s contingent liability coverage apply.
- Ride-share company coverage typically includes:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
3. When the Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Has a Passenger
- If a driver has accepted a ride request or has a passenger in the car, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage.
- This coverage applies to:
- Passengers injured in the vehicle
- Other drivers or pedestrians hit by the ride-share driver
- Property damage caused by the ride-share vehicle
What to Do After a Ride-share Accident in Arizona
If you are involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Arizona, taking the right steps can protect your claim and help secure compensation:
- Check for Injuries & Seek Medical Help – Your health and safety should be the priority. If needed, call 911.
- Report the Accident – Call the police to file a report, which may serve as evidence for your claim.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. Get the ride-share driver’s information, including their app status during the crash.
- Notify the Ride-share Company—Use the Uber or Lyft app to report the accident so the company can document the incident.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney – Ride-share accidents can involve multiple insurance providers, and legal guidance can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Arizona’s Insurance Laws for Ride-share Drivers
Arizona requires ride-share drivers to carry different levels of insurance coverage depending on their status in the app. These requirements exist to protect both drivers and passengers:
- When the driver is OFF the app: The driver’s auto insurance applies.
- When the driver is logged into the app but has no passengers: Arizona law mandates at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in liability coverage.
- When the driver is carrying a passenger or on the way to pick one up: The ride-share company provides $1 million in coverage for injuries and property damage.
Suppose you are a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver injured by a ride-share vehicle. In that case, it is important to understand how these insurance policies interact so you can claim the appropriate compensation.
Who Pays for Your Medical Bills and Damages?
Determining who is financially responsible after a ride-share accident depends on who was at fault and the driver’s status at the time of the crash:
- If the ride-share driver caused the accident – Their insurance (or Uber/Lyft’s coverage) would cover damages.
- If another driver was at fault – The at-fault driver’s auto insurance should cover injuries and property damage.
- If the ride-share driver is uninsured or under-insured – Uber and Lyft provide additional uninsured/under-insured motorist coverage for victims.
Because these cases can involve multiple insurance companies, seeking legal guidance is crucial to ensure you receive full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and damages.
Conclusion
Navigating an Uber or Lyft accident claim in Arizona can be complicated due to insurance coverage rules and liability disputes. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, knowing who is responsible for paying damages is key to getting the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a ride-share accident, speaking with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the maximum settlement possible.
Need Legal Help? Contact Wesbrooks Law today for a free consultation, and let our experienced team help you navigate your case. Call us at (602) 262-4357 or visit us at wesbrookslaw.com/contact-us.
