Rideshare Recovery Complications When A Crash Occurs During A Ghost Ride

As rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become integral to Orlando’s transportation landscape, the legal questions surrounding accidents involving these vehicles have also grown more complex. One particularly challenging scenario arises when an accident occurs during what’s known as a ghost ride.

If you have questions about recovery after a rideshare crash, connect with an Orlando personal injury attorney. Doing so is crucial if you’ve been injured in such an incident. Always speak to a experienced accident attorney before speaking to any insurance company.

Ghost Rides and Insurance Gray Areas

A ghost ride happens when a rideshare driver is using the Uber or Lyft app, but isn’t officially on an active trip. This might occur if the driver is waiting for a fare, driving around to position themselves for better ride requests, or even transporting someone off the app, such as a friend or a private passenger paying in cash.

From the outside, these vehicles look like standard rideshare cars, but legally speaking, they may not be actively working. That distinction matters when determining what insurance coverage applies after an accident.

Rideshare companies have layered insurance policies that depend on the driver’s app status at the time of the crash:

• App off. If the driver isn’t logged into the app, only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
• App on, waiting for a ride. Limited coverage from a rideshare company, typically $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage.
• En route or with a passenger. The full $1 million rideshare liability policy is in effect.

Ghost rides often don’t fit neatly into these categories. If a driver is logged in but not officially transporting an Uber or Lyft passenger (or they’re carrying someone off the platform) the rideshare company may deny responsibility. That leaves victims caught between the driver’s personal insurer and the rideshare company’s policy, both of which may attempt to deflect coverage.

Blurred Lines Between Personal and Commercial Driving

Insurance companies often dispute who should pay. Victims may encounter coverage denials, such as insurers claiming the trip wasn’t officially part of a rideshare service, or insurers arguing over liability. Some victims also face reduced payouts.

Navigating the aftermath of a ghost ride accident requires legal skill and persistence. Investigating the driver’s app data and trip history to determine whether they were logged in or on a trip is key, along with identifying all available insurance policies, including potential coverage under Uber or Lyft’s contingent policies.

After an injury in an Orlando rideshare-related accident, don’t assume coverage is straightforward. Ghost rides create gray areas that can jeopardize your recovery unless you have legal guidance. Speaking with an experienced Orlando personal injury attorney early can ensure that critical evidence is preserved and that you have a strong advocate fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Has a rideshare accident injury led to frustration and confusion in your life? Talk to the attorneys at Israoui Law. Even if a ride wasn’t deemed official by a rideshare company, your injuries are real and you have rights. For the personal attention you deserve, call 407-381-4529 today.