Hit by an Uber or Lyft Driver in Pennsylvania? What Pedestrians in Luzerne County Need to Know

The widespread use of ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft has changed transportation across Pennsylvania, including right here in Luzerne County. While these services offer convenience, they have also contributed to an increase in pedestrian accidents involving ride-share drivers.

If you were struck by an Uber or Lyft driver in Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Hazleton, Pittston, or anywhere in Northeastern PA, knowing your rights is essential to securing fair compensation.

I. The Rise of Ride-Sharing Services — And the Risk to Pedestrians

Uber and Lyft provide a fast and affordable way to get around, but as their popularity grows, so does the risk of pedestrian accidents. Ride-share drivers often:

• Focus on their phone for GPS or incoming ride requests

• Rush to pick up or drop off passengers

• Fail to observe crosswalks or traffic signals

• Navigate congested downtown or residential areas

These distractions can lead to serious or even fatal injuries for pedestrians.

II. Understanding Liability in Uber and Lyft Accidents

Determining who is responsible in a ride-share accident can be complicated, as multiple insurance policies may apply. Liability often depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident.

1. The Ride-Share Driver's Liability

If the driver's negligence caused the accident, their personal insurance and Uber/Lyft's insurance may apply. Coverage depends on the driver's status:

• Driver not logged into the app: Only the driver's personal insurance applies.

• Driver logged in and waiting for a ride: Uber/Lyft provides limited liability coverage.

• Driver en route to pick up a passenger or transporting one: Uber/Lyft provides $1 million in liability coverage.

2. Uber and Lyft's Liability

Although Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, Pennsylvania law requires transportation network companies (TNCs) to carry substantial liability insurance.

Ride-share companies may share responsibility when:

• Their driver was active on the app

• Fault is clearly caused by the driver

• Negligent hiring or supervision is alleged

3. Third-Party Liability

Sometimes another party may be partly or fully responsible, such as:

• Another negligent driver

• A pedestrian who walked into traffic

• A municipality that failed to maintain safe roadways

Identifying all responsible parties is crucial to maximizing compensation.

III. Your Rights After Being Hit by an Uber or Lyft Driver

If you were struck by a ride-share vehicle as a pedestrian, here's what you should do to protect your health and your legal claim:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even minor injuries can worsen over time. Prompt treatment creates essential documentation.

2. Call the Police and Report the Accident

A police report serves as a key piece of evidence in ride-share injury claims.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

If possible, collect:

• Photos of the vehicle and scene

• Contact info for the driver and witnesses

• Screenshot if the Uber/Lyft app shows activity

4. Consult an Experienced Uber/Lyft Injury Lawyer

Ride-share cases involve layered insurance and legal issues. An attorney can help navigate these complexities and protect your rights from the start.

IV. Compensation Available After a Ride-Share Accident

Pedestrians injured by an Uber or Lyft driver may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Scarring or permanent injuries

• Future medical care

Wrongful Death Claims

If a pedestrian is killed by a ride-share driver, surviving family members may pursue:

• Wrongful death damages

• Survival action damages

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Loss of companionship and support

Contact Sklarosky Law Today

If you or a loved one were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver in Luzerne County or Northeastern Pennsylvania, do not handle the claim alone. These cases are complex, and insurance companies will try to minimize payouts.

📞 Call Sklarosky Law today at (570) 283-1200
📝 Or use our online contact form to tell us about your case.

We will fight to help you recover the compensation you deserve — and protect your rights every step of the way.