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With thousands of students attending Texas A&M University and Blinn College, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a staple for getting around College Station and Bryan. Whether you’re heading to class, a football game at Kyle Field, or a night out at Northgate, rideshare apps offer a convenient and often safer alternative to driving under the influence. However, accidents involving rideshare vehicles can and do happen.
Understanding your rights and options after a rideshare accident is crucial, especially if you are injured as a passenger, pedestrian, or even another driver involved in a collision. Here’s what college students in the Bryan-College Station need to know about rideshare accidents, liability, and legal recourse from the team at The Payne Law Group.
Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Unlike traditional car accidents, determining liability in a rideshare accident can be more complex. The responsible party could be:
- The Rideshare Driver: If the Uber or Lyft driver was distracted, speeding, or otherwise negligent, they may be liable.
- Another Driver: If another motorist caused the crash, their insurance should cover damages.
- Rideshare Companies: Uber and Lyft have commercial insurance policies that may cover injuries, but only under certain conditions.
- Vehicle Manufacturers or Local Authorities: Other parties might share liability if a vehicle defect or poorly maintained roads contributed to the crash.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage
Texas law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, but rideshare drivers operate under different rules depending on their driving status at the time of the accident.
- If the rideshare app is OFF: The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
- If the app is ON, but no ride is accepted: Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage (typically $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 per accident).
- If a ride is in progress: Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage, which may cover injured passengers.
However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, it’s essential to consult an attorney who understands these complex policies.
Common Rideshare Accident Scenarios in College Station and Bryan
With heavy student traffic and busy roadways like Texas Avenue, University Drive, and Wellborn Road, common causes of rideshare accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: Many rideshare drivers rely on GPS, leading to inattention.
- Speeding or Reckless Driving: Trying to complete more trips in less time increases the risk of collisions.
- Drunk Driving Accidents: While rideshare services reduce DUI incidents, accidents involving intoxicated drivers still happen.
- Fatigue: Drivers working long shifts or multiple jobs may be too tired to react quickly.
If you’re injured in a rideshare accident near Texas A&M University or Blinn College, it’s critical to act quickly to protect your rights.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in College Station or Bryan
If you’re involved in a rideshare crash, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, injuries like concussions or whiplash can appear later.
- Call 911: A police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal actions.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Get Contact Information: Collect details from all drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
- Report the Accident: Notify Uber or Lyft through their app to ensure the incident is recorded.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced lawyer can help you navigate insurance claims and seek compensation.
Can College Students Sue for Rideshare Accident Injuries?
Yes. If you are injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, physical therapy, and long-term care costs.
- Lost Wages: If you miss work due to injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
- Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of personal belongings.
Since Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, if you were partially at fault (e.g., distracted walking), your compensation could be reduced. A College Station personal injury attorney can help determine liability and fight for maximum compensation.
Why Legal Help Matters After a Rideshare Accident
Unlike traditional car accident claims, rideshare cases involve multiple insurance policies, corporate legal teams, and complex liability rules. Insurance companies may delay, deny, or undervalue claims, leaving victims without the compensation they need.
An attorney familiar with College Station rideshare accidents can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Identify all liable parties
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- File a lawsuit if necessary
Injured in a College Station Rideshare Accident? Know Your Rights.
If you or a fellow Texas A&M or Blinn student is injured in a rideshare accident in College Station, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group today for a free consultation. We will fight for the compensation you deserve and help you move forward after an accident.