Rideshare companies increase prices during peak hours, referred to as surge times. While this primarily affects fare costs, it also influences how accident claims are handled. If you’re involved in a collision during one of these high-demand periods, there are several key factors to understand.
Surge pricing and insurance coverage
Surge periods typically see a higher volume of rides and increased traffic, which elevates the likelihood of accidents. Drivers may feel pressured to complete more trips quickly to maximize earnings. Fortunately, if you’re injured during surge pricing, the rideshare company’s full commercial insurance policy usually applies. This often provides more extensive coverage compared to standard non-surge hours.
Driver status matters in a claim
The driver’s activity at the time of the accident plays a significant role in determining insurance coverage. If the driver was not logged into the app, only their personal insurance would apply. However, if the driver was en route to pick someone up or had a passenger during surge pricing, the rideshare company’s commercial policy is typically in effect. This distinction matters for both passengers and third parties involved in the incident.
Higher fares don’t mean faster claim resolution
Increased fare costs during surge times do not accelerate the claims process. Insurance companies still conduct a standard investigation to determine liability, assess injuries, and evaluate vehicle damage. The surge-related fare has no bearing on how quickly or efficiently your claim will be processed.
It’s essential to document everything following a crash during surge pricing. Record the time, driver’s information, and app status. These details help verify that the accident occurred during a surge period, which can affect claim evaluation. The more comprehensive your documentation, the more efficiently your case may proceed.