Court Rejects Claims Against Driver After Passenger's Death During Ride

A court in China has rejected a lawsuit filed by the family of a deceased passenger, seeking over 180,000 yuan in compensation from a carpool driver. The passenger, identified as Zhao, died of a sudden heart attack while traveling home in Guangxi province in February 2026.

Zhao had booked the carpool through an online platform. During the journey, the driver, identified as Wei, noticed Zhao in the back seat was unresponsive. Wei immediately stopped the vehicle, attempted basic first aid, and called for assistance from bystanders. He also contacted emergency services and Zhao's family. Despite rescue efforts, Zhao was pronounced dead at the scene.

The family sued Wei, alleging delayed rescue efforts and that Wei was operating as an illegal taxi service. They argued that Wei had a duty to provide prompt medical attention and that his failure to do so worsened the outcome. The family sought compensation for funeral expenses and other losses.

The court ruled that the ride was a legitimate carpool arrangement, not commercial operation, and that Wei, as a private individual, could not be expected to possess medical expertise or anticipate Zhao's sudden cardiac event. The court found Wei acted reasonably and promptly in seeking help and fulfilling his duty of care under the circumstances. Consequently, all claims against Wei were dismissed.