Hurt as an Uber or Lyft Passenger? Legal Options in New Mexico

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a convenient way to get around Las Cruces and beyond. Many people rely on these services daily for work, school, or social outings. But what happens when that ride ends in an accident? If you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident, the legal process can feel confusing and overwhelming. Multiple parties may be involved, from the rideshare driver to the company itself to other motorists. Knowing your rights is key to recovering the compensation you deserve.

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability in a rideshare accident depends on how the crash happened and who was at fault. Possible responsible parties include:

New Mexico follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning multiple parties can share fault. For example, if both the Uber driver and another motorist contributed to the crash, each may be held partly responsible. This makes it even more important to have a clear investigation of the crash and accurate documentation of what occurred.

Insurance Coverage in Uber and Lyft Accidents

One of the most important questions passengers ask is: Who pays for my injuries if I was a passenger in an Uber accident? Both Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage when a driver is actively carrying a passenger. This policy can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation, and other damages. However, if another driver caused the crash, that driver’s insurance may also come into play, which can complicate the claims process.

When drivers are logged into the app but not carrying passengers, lower coverage limits may apply. These gaps can leave passengers and injured parties uncertain about which policy is responsible. Navigating these insurance layers requires careful legal guidance, especially when companies try to shift blame.

Steps to Take if You’re Hurt in a Rideshare Accident

If you were injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft car accident, here are important steps to protect your rights:

  1. Call 911 and make sure a police report is filed. A report creates an official record of the accident.
  2. Get medical care immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Delayed treatment can harm both your health and your legal claim.
  3. Document the scene by taking photos of vehicles, injuries, and rideshare app trip details. Screenshots of your ride confirmation and driver information can be valuable evidence.
  4. Gather witness and driver information including insurance policies and contact details. This helps establish liability later.
  5. Consult a rideshare accident attorney to review your case and handle communication with insurers. Speaking to a lawyer early prevents mistakes that could reduce your claim.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Rideshare companies and their insurers are known for minimizing payouts. They may argue over which insurance applies, deny parts of your claim, or delay payment to pressure you into accepting less. An experienced rideshare accident attorney in New Mexico can:

  • Investigate liability and gather supporting evidence
  • Handle negotiations with Uber, Lyft, or other insurers
  • Seek full compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering
  • Represent you in court if settlement negotiations fail

With so many moving parts, having an advocate on your side ensures you are not left at the mercy of powerful insurance companies.

Protecting Your Rights After a Rideshare Accident

Being injured in an Uber or Lyft accident as a passenger can leave you facing unexpected medical bills and uncertainty about who will pay. You should not have to navigate complex insurance issues alone. Contact a skilled rideshare accident lawyer who can help you understand your options and pursue the compensation you deserve.