Injured in a Rideshare Accident?

Immediately after an accident, ensure everyone’s safety and call 911 for police and medical assistance if needed. Document the scene by taking photos/videos of vehicle damage, injuries, and surroundings. Exchange contact and insurance information with all involved parties (including the Uber/Lyft driver and any other drivers/witnesses). Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app, and consider consulting a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

The responsibility of Uber or Lyft depends on the driver’s “status” at the time of the accident.

• App Off: If the driver’s app is off, their personal auto insurance is solely responsible.
• App On, Waiting for a Request: Both Uber and Lyft typically offer limited liability coverage (e.g., $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage) if the driver’s personal insurance doesn’t apply or is insufficient.
• App On, En Route to Pick Up or During a Trip: Once a driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger, Uber and Lyft’s higher insurance policies (often up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage) generally apply.

Uber and Lyft drivers typically have their personal auto insurance, which usually doesn’t cover commercial activities. Both companies also provide their own commercial insurance policies, but the coverage limits depend on the driver’s “status” (as explained in FAQ #2). Many personal auto insurance companies also offer “rideshare endorsements” or specific rideshare insurance policies that fill the gaps between a driver’s personal policy and the rideshare company’s coverage.

First, report the accident to the police and get a police report. Gather as much evidence as possible (photos, witness info, medical records). Then, report the accident through the Uber or Lyft app. Identifying which insurance policy applies (driver’s personal, rideshare company’s, or another driver’s) is crucial. It’s highly recommended to consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in rideshare accidents, as they can help navigate the complex insurance claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Uber and Lyft accident settlements vary significantly based on factors like the severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the insurance policies involved. Minor injuries might settle for $10,000 to $50,000, while severe injuries or wrongful death cases can result in settlements exceeding $100,000 or even $1,000,000. Insurance companies often try to offer low settlements, so having an attorney can significantly impact the final compensation amount.