Injured in a Philadelphia Uber or Lyft Accident? Here’s What You Need to Know

Uber and Lyft have become popular transportation options across Philadelphia, offering convenience and affordability. However, when a rideshare ends in a crash, victims are often left confused about their rights and options.

If you were injured in a rideshare accident in Philadelphia, here’s what you need to know about liability, insurance, and pursuing compensation.

What Causes Rideshare Accidents in Philadelphia?

Rideshare drivers in Philadelphia face unique challenges—from navigating congested Center City streets to constantly switching between the app and the road. Common causes of Uber and Lyft crashes in the city include:

• Distracted driving from using GPS or rideshare apps.
• Speeding to meet ride quotas or tight pick-up schedules.
• Sudden stops in active lanes or at unsafe locations.
• Driver fatigue during late-night shifts.
• Inexperience or unfamiliarity with Philadelphia neighborhoods.

With heavy traffic on I-76, Roosevelt Boulevard, and Broad Street, even small mistakes can lead to serious injuries.

Why Are Rideshare Accidents More Legally Complex?

Unlike traditional car accidents, Uber and Lyft crashes often involve multiple parties and overlapping insurance policies. Additional complications may include:

• Unbuckled rear passengers (common in rideshares) suffer more severe injuries.
• Multiple injury victims try to recover from the same insurance policy.
• Airbag-related injuries for front seat passengers.
• Delayed symptoms like concussions or soft tissue injuries, which insurers may dispute.
• Coverage disputes based on whether the driver was logged into the app at the time of the crash.
• Confusion over fault when several drivers or vehicles are involved.

Navigating these factors without legal guidance can make it harder for victims to recover what they’re owed.

How Does Uber and Lyft Insurance Work in Pennsylvania?

Rideshare companies are required to carry specific insurance coverage in Pennsylvania, but what applies depends on the driver’s status:

• App Off: Only the driver’s personal auto policy applies.
• App On, No Passenger and No Ride Accepted: Limited liability coverage from Uber or Lyft kicks in ($50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident).
• Ride Accepted or Passenger in Vehicle: Full commercial coverage applies, typically $500,000 or more in third-party liability.

In rideshare accident cases, companies often try to avoid liability by classifying drivers as independent contractors.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Philadelphia Uber or Lyft Crash?

Responsibility for a rideshare accident in Philadelphia may fall on:

• The Uber or Lyft driver, if they were negligent.
• Another driver that was involved in the crash.
• The rideshare company, if it failed to screen or train the driver properly.
• A municipal entity, if poor road conditions, potholes, or faulty traffic signals played a role.
• A vehicle manufacturer, in cases involving defects.

Accidents on dangerous Philadelphia roads like Kelly Drive, Roosevelt Boulevard, or Columbus Boulevard often involve complex liability issues.

Can More Than One Insurance Policy Cover My Injuries?

Yes. Multiple policies may be available in a Philadelphia rideshare crash:

• Uber or Lyft’s commercial policy, if the ride was active.
• The rideshare driver’s personal policy, if the app wasn’t on.
• Your own auto insurance, especially if you have medical payments or uninsured motorist coverage.
• A third-party driver’s policy, if another car caused the crash.
• Excess or umbrella coverage, depending on the severity of your injuries.

An experienced rideshare accident lawyer in Philadelphia can identify all potential sources of coverage.

What Should I Do After an Uber or Lyft Crash in Philadelphia?

If you’re involved in a rideshare accident in Philadelphia, you should take these steps:

• Report the crash to 911 and the rideshare company through the app.
• Take photos of the accident scene and all involved vehicles.
• Exchange contact and insurance details with all drivers.
• Seek medical attention, even if symptoms are minor or delayed.
• Keep copies of medical records, police reports, and rideshare receipts.
• Avoid posting about the accident on social media.
• Speak with a Philadelphia rideshare accident attorney before talking to any insurance adjusters.

Why Choose Galfand Berger LLP for Your Rideshare Injury Case

At Galfand Berger LLP, we’ve represented injured clients in Philadelphia for over 75 years. We know how to handle the complexities of rideshare claims and hold Uber, Lyft, and negligent drivers accountable.

We’ve recovered millions for crash victims. Some of our recent cases:

• $4.5 million for a client paralyzed in a head-on collision.
• $3 million for a double amputation after a tractor-trailer crash.
• $2 million for a fatal crash caused by a construction vehicle.

Talk to a Philadelphia Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer at Galfand Berger LLP Today

If you or a loved one was injured in an Uber or Lyft crash, don’t wait. You may have a limited time to file a claim, and evidence can disappear quickly. Call a Philadelphia Uber and Lyft accident lawyer at 800-222-USWA (8792) or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, Pennsylvania, our attorneys at Galfand Berger LLP serve clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including Allentown and Harrisburg.