What Happens If Your Rideshare Driver Was Distracted or Using Their Phone?
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular in Las Vegas, offering visitors and locals a convenient way to get around. However, distracted driving is a growing problem, especially among rideshare drivers who rely on their phones for navigation, ride requests, and communication. If your rideshare driver was distracted or using their phone when they caused an accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Here’s what you need to know from Mainor Ellis about liability, legal options, and how to protect your rights.
How Common Is Distracted Driving Among Rideshare Drivers?
Rideshare drivers are constantly interacting with their phones, whether to accept new rides, navigate unfamiliar routes, or communicate with passengers. Unfortunately, this increases the risk of distracted driving accidents. Common types of distractions include:
- Looking at the rideshare app to accept or decline ride requests
- Texting or calling while driving
- Checking navigation apps instead of paying attention to the road
- Adjusting music or other in-car settings
- Conversing with passengers and losing focus on driving
In a city like Las Vegas, where traffic is heavy and pedestrians are everywhere, even a few seconds of distraction can lead to a serious crash.
Who Is Liable If a Distracted Rideshare Driver Causes an Accident?
If your rideshare driver was distracted and caused a crash, liability may fall on multiple parties:
The Rideshare Driver
Nevada law requires all drivers to pay full attention to the road. If the Uber or Lyft driver was looking at their phone, texting, or otherwise distracted, they may be held personally liable for the accident.
The Rideshare Company (Uber/Lyft)
Uber and Lyft carry insurance policies that cover accidents under specific circumstances. Their liability depends on whether the driver was actively engaged in a ride:
- Driver is offline – Only their personal auto insurance applies.
- Driver is online but waiting for a ride request – Uber/Lyft’s limited coverage applies (up to $50,000 per person).
- Driver is actively transporting a passenger – Uber/Lyft’s full $1 million policy may cover the accident.
A Third-Party Driver
If another distracted driver caused the accident, you may need to file a claim against their insurance instead. An experienced attorney can help determine who is responsible.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you were injured because your rideshare driver was distracted, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, therapy)
- Lost wages (if you are unable to work due to injuries)
- Pain and suffering (physical pain, emotional distress)
- Property damage (if your belongings were damaged in the crash)
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
If you suspect your rideshare driver was distracted, take the following steps to protect your case:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
- Collect witness statements – If other passengers or bystanders saw the driver using their phone, their testimony can help.
- Request a copy of the police report – It may note whether the driver was distracted.
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t appear immediately.
- Contact a rideshare accident attorney – A lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and negotiate with the insurance companies.
Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Attorney
Dealing with Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies can be complicated. Their representatives often try to minimize payouts or deny liability. A Las Vegas rideshare accident attorney can help:
- Investigate the accident and prove the driver was distracted
- Hold the rideshare company accountable
- Negotiate for the maximum compensation
Contact Mainor Ellis for Help Today
If you were injured in a rideshare accident caused by a distracted Uber or Lyft driver, don’t fight the legal battle alone. The experienced Las Vegas Ride Share Accident Lawyers at Mainor Ellis can help you hold the responsible parties accountable and get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation!
