Columbia Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer

Rideshare services have transformed how people travel around Columbia. A few taps on your phone bring a driver to your location, whether you need a ride home after dinner, a trip to the airport, or want to avoid downtown parking. However, this convenience comes with risks that many passengers never consider until they are injured in a crash.

At Stewart Law Offices, our Car accident lawyers in Columbia understand the unique complexities of rideshare accidents. With 30 years of experience representing victims of rideshare accidents in Columbia, when you or a loved one suffers injuries in an Uber or Lyft crash, whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, our experienced legal team fights to hold negligent parties accountable. We work to secure the compensation you deserve.

Why Rideshare Drivers Cause Accidents

Several factors make rideshare drivers more prone to causing car accidents in Columbia than other motorists:

• App Distraction: Drivers must constantly check their phones to accept ride requests, follow GPS navigation, and communicate with passengers, all of which contribute to distracted driving.
• Unfamiliarity with Routes: Accepting fares in unknown areas leads to sudden lane changes, missed turns, and abrupt stops
• Driver Fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours or late-night shifts to maximize earnings
• Passenger Distractions: Helping with luggage, responding to passenger requests, and managing conversations diverts attention from the road

South Carolina’s Rideshare Insurance Requirements

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in North Carolina (as a driver, passenger, or third party), insurance coverage can be tricky. It depends on the driver’s app status at the time of the crash. North Carolina does not have a specific state law mandating exact rideshare insurance amounts (unlike some states). Coverage is provided by the transportation network companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft, and it varies by company and phase.

Period 1: Driver Logged into App, No Ride Accepted

When a rideshare driver is online and available but has not accepted a ride request, companies must provide contingent coverage of:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury
• $100,000 total per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 for property damage

This coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the accident. Most personal auto policies exclude coverage during commercial rideshare activities.

Period 2 & 3: Ride Accepted or Passenger in Vehicle

Once a ride is accepted, the driver is heading to pickup, or a passenger is in the car, TNCs provide stronger coverage:

• Uber: Up to $1.5 million liability; $1 million uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) bodily injury; contingent collision/comprehensive with a $1,000–$2,500 deductible (if you have it on your personal policy).
• Lyft: $1 million liability per accident; $1 million UM/UIM; contingent collision with a $2,500 deductible.

Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage varies but is generally included (often up to $1 million with Uber/Lyft).

Rideshare claims often involve multiple policies and gaps, making them complex. An attorney can help sort through the details and pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and more.

Determining Liability in Columbia Rideshare Accidents

South Carolina follows an at-fault system for motor vehicle crashes, meaning the party who caused the accident bears financial responsibility for resulting damages. In rideshare cases, determining which insurance policy applies requires careful investigation of the driver’s exact status at the moment of impact.

When Another Driver Causes the Crash

If a third party caused the accident, that driver’s liability insurance typically provides the first source of compensation. However, if their coverage limits prove insufficient, rideshare passengers may have additional claims against the rideshare company’s insurance policies.

When the Rideshare Driver Is at Fault

If the Uber or Lyft driver caused the crash, the applicable insurance depends on their status:

• Off-Duty: Only the driver’s personal insurance applies
• Logged In, Waiting: Limited rideshare coverage
• Active Ride: The Highest level of Uber/Lyft commercial liability coverage applies

Insurance companies frequently dispute which coverage period applies, examining app data and GPS logs to minimize their payout obligations. Our Columbia car accident attorney team obtains this critical evidence to prove the correct coverage applies to your claim.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents often occur at dangerous intersections and high-traffic areas throughout Columbia. Victims may suffer:

• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Severe lacerations and scarring
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries

Compensation Available in Rideshare Accident Claims

South Carolina law allows injured victims to seek compensation for:

Economic Damages:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy)
• Future medical treatment costs
• Lost wages and income
• Reduced earning capacity
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium

Punitive Damages in Serious Cases

South Carolina permits punitive damages in cases involving willful, reckless, or wanton conduct. Under South Carolina Code § 15-32-530(C), there is no cap on punitive damages when the defendant was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, had intent to harm, or was convicted of a related felony.

Steps to Take After a Columbia Rideshare Accident

If you are involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Columbia:

• Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance
• Seek Medical Care: Get examined even if you feel fine, as many injuries have delayed symptoms
• Screenshot the App: Capture driver information and trip status before it becomes unavailable
• Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions
• Gather Information: Collect contact details from the driver, other motorists, and witnesses
• Avoid Statements: Do not discuss fault or give recorded statements to insurance adjusters
• Contact an Attorney; Consult with our team before accepting any settlement offers

South Carolina’s Comparative Negligence Rule

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence system. If you share some responsibility for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are found more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any compensation. Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto victims to reduce their payout obligations.

Time Limits for Filing Your Claim

South Carolina law imposes a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits from the date of the accident. However, waiting reduces the quality of evidence and makes building a strong case more difficult. Early legal action ensures:

• Evidence preservation while still fresh
• Witness availability and accurate memories
• Proper medical evaluation of all injuries
• Time for a thorough investigation
• Strong negotiating position with insurers

Visit Our Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyers in Columbia

How Our Columbia Rideshare Accident Lawyers Can Help

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an Uber or Lyft accident in Columbia, contact Stewart Law Offices today. Our experienced car accident lawyers are available 24/7 to take your call. We come to you if your injuries make travel difficult.