Ridesharing refers to traveling in a privately owned vehicle for a fee, particularly as part of an arrangement set up via an app that matches passengers with drivers. Rideshare vehicle use is increasing across the country. Here in Glendale, rideshare vehicles take us all over the city–from the Arts District to Sahuaro Ranch Park. The dominant ridesharing companies in Arizona are Uber and Lyft, although other rideshare companies, including WeRide, may also be available.

There are many Rideshare drivers in Glendale, taking passengers all over the city—from Reid Park Zoo to the Thunderbird Conservation Park. In Arizona, rideshare drivers are hired as independent contractors. In addition to certain conditions set by Arizona State law, Rideshare services like Lyft and Uber also have their own requirements. Typically, these include:  

• Having a valid Arizona driver’s license
• Being at least 19 years old
• Vehicle registration and liability insurance on the specific vehicle used to carry passengers
• Passing a driving history check
• Passing a criminal background check

A person cannot be a rideshare driver if their background check reveals any of the following:

• A conviction of a vehicular crime within the last three (3) years
• A conviction of a violent crime within the last seven (7) years and/or are
• Registered as a convicted sex offender

Rideshare companies also require certain safety specifications for vehicles. Motor vehicles being used to transport passengers must have had a recent mechanical examination and must have at least four doors.

Impersonating a rideshare driver or driving under someone else’s rideshare account is strictly prohibited and, in the state of Arizona, can result in jail time or fines.

If you have been injured in a rideshare accident—whether Uber, Lyft, taxi, or some other company—the personal injury attorneys at Rasmussen Injury Law can help. Call us at (480) 637-5757 to learn how we can help you.

If you have been hit by a Lyft, Uber, or other rideshare vehicle, try to remain calm. EMTs, other emergency responders, or the police may need to speak with you. If your injuries are serious, you will need to go to the emergency room. You may be advised to seek medical attention even if you don’t appear to have been seriously hurt. 

We strongly recommend that you seek a full medical examination within a few days of the accident.

Certain medical issues can take weeks or even months to become apparent after an accident; These types of injuries may not present immediately. Without a timely medical exam, insurance claims adjusters can make a case that you were never seriously injured or that any pain you experience is unrelated to the accident in question.

Address your medical issues as soon as possible—then speak to a rideshare accident lawyer about your legal options. Doing so will help you secure full compensation for your injuries. Call Rasmussen Injury Law today to begin your claim: (480) 637-5757.

The answer to this question often depends on the circumstances of the specific accident. It may be, in one case, the driver could be responsible. While in another case, it may be that the rideshare company itself or even other drivers are found to be responsible. Other factors that can impact who pays for a Lyft, Uber, or taxicab accident claim include total insurance coverage, employment status at the time of the accident,  and acts of negligence.

Arizona is known as an “at-fault state.” In an at-fault state, the driver who caused the accident will be held responsible for paying any damages. If the accident occurs in an at-fault state like Arizona, you file a claim against the liable driver's insurance company. The liable driver’s insurance company is then responsible for covering property damage and injuries sustained as a result of the accident.

Arizona law requires that Uber drivers maintain a personal auto insurance policy that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements. These include liability coverage of at least $50,000 for bodily injury to two or more people, $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, and $20,000 for property damage per accident. Uber drivers in Glendale, AZ are not required to purchase a separate commercial auto insurance policy specifically for rideshare driving. 

This does not mean, however, that Uber drivers do not also hold commercial insurance. While Glendale Uber drivers must have personal auto insurance that meets Arizona’s minimum requirements, they do not need to buy a separate commercial policy for rideshare work because Uber provides the necessary commercial coverage while they are working on the platform and the driver is transporting passengers or is actively available for transporting passengers. This coverage includes:

• $1,000,000 in liability coverage per accident, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver carries these on their personal policy), when en route to pick up a passenger or during a trip.
• At least $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage when the app is on but no ride has been accepted.

While Glendale Uber drivers must have personal auto insurance that meets Arizona’s minimum requirements, they do not need to buy a separate commercial policy for rideshare work because Uber provides the necessary commercial coverage while they are working on the platform.