Being involved in an accident with a gig economy delivery driver—such as those from Instacart, DoorDash, or Uber Eats—can be complicated. You need to take the right steps to protect yourself and understand your options.
Ensure safety and seek medical attention
Check for injuries immediately. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. Even if you don’t feel injured at the moment, it’s best to get a medical evaluation since some symptoms can take time to appear. Keeping track of any pain or discomfort in the days following the accident is important.
Document the accident scene
Gather as much information as possible before leaving the scene. Get the driver’s name, contact details, license plate number, and insurance information. Take clear photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.
Report the accident
Call local law enforcement to file an official report. This document can provide key details about the crash and may be helpful when dealing with claims or legal matters. Even if the accident seems minor, having a police report can make a difference if unexpected issues arise later.
Determine the driver’s work status
Gig drivers may have different insurance coverage depending on whether they were actively working at the time of the accident. If the driver was off duty, their personal auto insurance applies. If they were waiting for a delivery request, the company’s limited liability coverage might be in effect. If they were actively delivering an order, companies like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Instacart usually provide higher coverage. Understanding this distinction helps when filing a claim.
Handling insurance claims
Texas follows a fault-based system, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance should cover damages. If the driver’s personal insurance denies coverage, you may need to file a claim with the gig company’s insurance. Reviewing your own policy for uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can also help if other options fall short.
Know your options moving forward
Accidents with gig drivers can be complex due to varying insurance policies. If you experience difficulties with a claim or insurance disputes, it may be necessary to explore legal options. Understanding Texas liability laws and insurance policies will help you move forward after a crash.