When is a Rideshare Company Liable for a Traffic Accident in North Carolina?

At Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt, P.A., our Charlotte car accident and injury attorneys know that most drivers often hold Uber and Lyft drivers to a higher standard because they are considered professional drivers responsible for safely transporting passengers in North Carolina.

Since they are performing a paid service, it is assumed that they should prioritize safety more than the average driver due to the nature of their job and the trust passengers place in them.

Unfortunately, these expectations are often misplaced. Uber and Lyft drivers are just as likely to be involved in crashes as non-rideshare drivers because they face similar road conditions, traffic, and hazards. Additionally, rideshare drivers often operate for extended periods, leading to fatigue and distractions from using navigation apps or rushing to pick up passengers, increasing their risk of accidents.

Here, our rideshare injury lawyers in North Carolina discuss when a rideshare company can be held liable for a traffic accident under certain conditions.

When Can a Rideshare Company Be Held Liable for a North Carolina Traffic Accident?

Multiple steps are involved in determining when a rideshare company may be liable for a crash because the circumstances of each accident can vary widely. Factors such as whether the driver was actively using the app, transporting a passenger, or en route to a pickup can all influence liability.

Here are the factors that may influence when Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare company is liable for your unique claim:

• Driver Status During the Accident

If the rideshare driver was actively logged into the app and either transported a passenger or was on their way to pick one up at the time of the accident, the company’s insurance policy typically applies. In this case, the rideshare company may be liable through their commercial insurance coverage, which often provides higher limits than the driver’s insurance.

• Negligent Hiring or Supervision

If the rideshare company failed to adequately screen the driver—such as by hiring someone with a history of dangerous driving or criminal activity—it could be liable for negligent hiring. Similarly, if the company was aware of problematic behavior and failed to take corrective action, it might be liable for negligent supervision.

• Insurance Coverage Gaps: If the rideshare driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, the company may still provide limited insurance coverage, possibly making it partially liable for damages in certain situations.

Rideshare companies often argue that their drivers are independent contractors, not employees, which can complicate claims against the company. Therefore, determining rideshare company liability usually requires a thorough legal investigation, and working with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to navigate these cases effectively. We can help.

Have You Been Injured in a Rideshare Accident in North Carolina?

If you were injured in a rideshare accident caused by negligence in North Carolina, our personal injury attorneys in Charlotte at Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt want to hear your story during a free consultation by calling 704-377-3737 or contacting us online.

We provide unique legal services tailored to each client’s needs and do not get paid unless you do.

Your Injury, Our Fight. How can we help you take a stand?

Because every case is different, the description of awards and issues previously managed by our law firm does not guarantee a similar outcome in current or future cases.