Rideshare crashes are more complicated than ordinary car accidents because which insurance applies depends on what the driver was doing: app off, app on and waiting for a request, or on the way to or carrying a passenger. Uber and Lyft carry large commercial policies for trips in progress, but their insurers defend claims hard.
Which insurance applies
- App off: the driver’s personal auto insurance.
- App on, waiting for a ride: limited contingent coverage from the rideshare company may apply if the driver’s own policy doesn’t.
- En route to a passenger or during a trip: the rideshare company’s commercial policy, which typically has much higher liability limits.
Exact limits vary by state and change over time, so a lawyer will confirm the coverage in your case.
When you probably need a lawyer
- You were injured as a passenger, another driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian.
- Several insurers are pointing at each other.
- Your injuries need ongoing treatment or caused missed work.
What to do right now
- Get medical care and keep records.
- Screenshot the trip details in your app and the driver’s name and plate.
- Report the crash to police and in the app.
- Photograph the scene and vehicles; collect witness names.
- Don’t give recorded statements to insurers before getting advice.
How fees work
Injury lawyers usually work on contingency: no fee upfront, and a percentage of any settlement or verdict if you win. Ask how case costs are handled before you sign. See what you’d keep with our settlement calculator and read how contingency fees work.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
Drivers are generally treated as independent contractors, so claims usually go through the insurance policies, but a lawyer will check all options in your case.
I was a passenger: whose insurance pays?
If you were on a trip, the rideshare company’s commercial policy usually applies.
Questions from readers
Question about Uber & Lyft accident? Ask it here. We answer common questions in general terms on this page. This is not legal advice, and we can’t take your case.
Ask a question
Free · No obligation
Get a free case review
Tell us a little about your situation and we’ll try to connect you with a participating lawyer in your area who handles it.
