The Role of Weather in Ride-Sharing Accidents 
When autumn storms roll through Ohio, road conditions change quickly. Wet roads, low visibility, and high winds create dangerous driving conditions. Even though drivers may be more cautious in such weather, the reality is that many accidents occur when weather conditions reduce visibility or cause vehicles to lose traction. Uber and Lyft drivers may not be immune to the effects of these storms. For instance, driving at higher speeds or failing to adjust for changing road conditions may result in accidents. Ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft do have insurance policies in place to cover accidents, but how they apply depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the driver’s behavior and whether they were driving in stormy weather. However, weather-related accidents are not treated any differently from other types of accidents in terms of coverage. The same principles apply, but understanding your options is important for securing the right compensation. What Insurance Coverage Applies to Uber and Lyft Accidents in Ohio?
Ohio law requires ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft to carry insurance policies that cover both drivers and passengers. However, coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Understanding how the ride-sharing insurance works during a trip can help you determine what benefits you may be eligible for in the event of an accident. There are different levels of coverage, depending on whether the driver is actively transporting a passenger or waiting for a ride request.
Dan Ryan
Attorney
Elizabeth Fitzgerald
Paralegal
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About Our FirmThe Coverage When the Driver is Online but Not Transporting a Passenger
In Ohio, if the driver is logged into the Uber or Lyft app and waiting for a ride request, they are covered under a limited liability insurance policy. However, the coverage at this stage is not as extensive as when the driver is actually transporting a passenger. Uber and Lyft both offer liability coverage that includes bodily injury and property damage, but the coverage is generally more limited than the coverage during an active ride. If you are injured while the driver is waiting for a ride request and the accident is not your fault, this limited coverage could be applied.The Coverage During an Active Ride
When the driver has accepted a passenger and is actively transporting them, Uber and Lyft provide significantly more comprehensive insurance coverage. In the event of an accident, the insurance policy covers up to $1 million in liability, which includes medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to your injuries. If you are injured while riding in an Uber or Lyft during a storm, this coverage would apply, assuming the driver was acting within the scope of their duties and was not negligent. This means that if an accident occurs during a ride while the driver is operating in dangerous conditions, such as stormy weather, Uber and Lyft’s insurance policy will typically cover your medical expenses and other costs related to your injury. However, your ability to receive compensation will depend on the details of the accident and whether the driver was found to be at fault.What Happens After the Ride Ends?
Once the ride is complete, the coverage provided by Uber and Lyft drops. After the ride ends, if the driver is still logged into the app but is not actively transporting a passenger, the coverage reverts to the limited liability policy that applies when the driver is waiting for a new passenger. This limited coverage may not be sufficient to fully cover your damages, especially if you were injured after the ride ended but while the driver was still active in the app. If you were injured in this scenario, you may need to seek compensation through your personal insurance policy or a third-party claim.
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Weather-Related Accidents and Liability in Ohio
Although weather conditions such as rain, snow, or storms may contribute to accidents, liability for these accidents is typically determined based on the driver’s actions. Ohio law does not offer specific provisions for accidents caused by bad weather, so ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft follow the same rules for liability that apply to other types of accidents. For instance, if an Uber or Lyft driver is speeding or failing to drive cautiously during a storm and causes an accident, they could be considered negligent and may be held responsible for your injuries. In these cases, the ride-sharing company’s insurance policy will cover your damages up to the policy limits. However, if the storm caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, and the accident was unavoidable, the situation becomes more complex.Steps to Take After an Accident in an Uber or Lyft
If you’re involved in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft during a storm, it’s essential to take immediate action to protect your rights. Here are the steps you should follow:Get Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it’s important to get checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Many injuries, especially those related to stormy weather accidents, may not show symptoms immediately. Seeing a medical professional will not only ensure that your injuries are addressed but also provide crucial documentation for your personal injury claim.Call the Police and File a Report
Having a police report is essential for documenting the details of the accident, including weather conditions. The police will be able to investigate the accident, determine fault, and create an official report that can help strengthen your case. Be sure to request a copy of the police report for your records.Document the Scene and Gather Information
Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicle, surrounding weather conditions, and any visible injuries you may have sustained. Additionally, be sure to get the following information:- The ride-sharing driver’s contact and insurance details.
- The details of any witnesses to the accident.
- Your own insurance information.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
A lawyer experienced in handling ride-sharing accident cases can help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve. They can assist you in dealing with insurance companies, negotiating settlements, and pursuing a personal injury claim if necessary.Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Ride-Sharing Accident
After an accident, Ohio law gives you the right to seek compensation for your injuries. This includes medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other expenses related to the accident. Whether you were injured due to the driver’s negligence or the storm itself, you have the right to pursue a claim. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you need to recover. Injuries sustained while riding in an Uber or Lyft during an autumn storm in Ohio may entitle you to compensation, depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Whether the accident occurred due to stormy conditions, the driver’s negligence, or a combination of both, Ohio laws and ride-sharing company policies provide options for compensation. If you’ve been injured in a ride-sharing accident, it’s crucial to act quickly to ensure your rights are protected. At Ryan Injury Attorneys, we specialize in personal injury claims related to ride-sharing accidents and can provide you with the legal guidance you need to pursue compensation.Disclaimer This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult an attorney about your specific situation.
