Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) Accidents

The Reality of Accidents Involving Rideshare Vehicles

Uber and Lyft have millions of drivers on the road, making rideshare-related accidents more common than ever. If you were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver—whether as a pedestrian, cyclist, motorist, or passenger in another vehicle—you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

However, rideshare accident claims are complicated. Determining which insurance policy applies depends on whether the driver was:

• Off-Duty (Not Logged into the App)
• Waiting for a Ride Request (Logged In but No Passenger)
• Transporting a Passenger or on the Way to Pick One Up

Because multiple insurance policies may be involved, insurance companies often try to deny claims or offer low settlements. An experienced rideshare accident attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Uber and Lyft drivers are not professional drivers—they are independent contractors using their personal vehicles. Many accidents occur due to:

Distracted Driving

• Rideshare drivers constantly check their app for ride requests, maps, and passenger messages.
• This increases the risk of rear-end crashes and failure to see pedestrians or cyclists.

Speeding & Reckless Driving

• Many drivers rush to complete as many rides as possible to earn more money.
• Speeding, running red lights, and unsafe lane changes are common among Uber and Lyft drivers.

Driver Fatigue

• Many rideshare drivers work long shifts or drive late at night to maximize earnings.
• Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, increasing accident risks.

Failure to Yield to Pedestrians & Cyclists

• Rideshare drivers often stop suddenly, block bike lanes, or make illegal U-turns.
• Pedestrians and cyclists are frequently hit in crosswalks or while biking near rideshare pick-up zones.

Unfamiliarity with Roads & Traffic Laws

• Drivers unfamiliar with an area may make sudden stops, wrong turns, or drive unpredictably.
• Relying on GPS while driving can increase distraction and reaction time delays.

Other Motorists’ Negligence

In some cases, another driver may have caused the accident, but insurance companies will still dispute liability.

Common Injuries in Accidents Involving Rideshare Vehicles

Rideshare accidents often result in severe or life-changing injuries. Some of the most common include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Concussions and brain damage from impact.
• Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis: Severe crashes can cause permanent disabilities.
• Broken Bones & Fractures: High-speed collisions often lead to broken ribs, legs, or arms.
• Internal Injuries & Organ Damage: Seatbelt trauma and blunt force injuries.
• Whiplash & Neck Injuries: Sudden acceleration or deceleration causes soft tissue damage.
• Fatalities: If a pedestrian, cyclist, or motorist is killed in a rideshare accident, families may file a wrongful death claim.

What to Do After Being Hit by an Uber or Lyft Driver

If you were hit by a rideshare vehicle, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights.

1. Call 911 & Seek Immediate Medical Care

• Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms take hours or days to appear.
• A medical report is crucial evidence for your injury claim.

2. Get the Rideshare Driver’s Information

• Full name, license plate number, and insurance details.
• Ask if they were actively working for Uber or Lyft at the time of the crash.

3. Document the Accident Scene

• Take photos of the vehicle, road conditions, traffic signs, and injuries.
• Get witness statements and their contact information.

4. Report the Crash to Uber or Lyft

• You can report accidents through the rideshare company’s app or website.
• Uber and Lyft will launch an internal investigation into the crash.

5. Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters Alone

• Rideshare and personal insurance companies may try to minimize payouts.
• Consult a personal injury attorney before signing anything.

6. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

A lawyer can help determine liability, file claims, and fight for maximum compensation.

Who is Liable When an Uber or Lyft Driver Causes an Accident?

Determining which insurance policy applies depends on the driver’s status during the accident:

Off-Duty (Not Logged into the App)

• The driver’s personal auto insurance covers the accident.
• Uber or Lyft’s insurance does NOT apply if the driver was not actively working.

Logged into the App (Waiting for a Ride Request)

• Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage ($50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident).
• If the driver’s personal insurance refuses to pay, rideshare coverage may apply.

En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or Carrying a Passenger

• Uber and Lyft’s $1 million liability policy covers passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists.
• This insurance applies even if another driver was at fault.

A personal injury attorney will investigate which policies apply and who should be held accountable.

Compensation for Victims of Rideshare Accidents

If you were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, and therapy.
• Lost Wages & Future Earnings: If injuries prevent returning to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Emotional trauma, PTSD, and long-term pain.
• Permanent Disability & Home Modifications: If the injury requires wheelchairs, ramps, or long-term care.
• Wrongful Death Compensation: If a loved one was killed in a rideshare accident, families may seek damages for funeral costs and loss of financial support.

Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Attorney

Uber and Lyft have large legal teams that work to minimize payouts. Insurance companies often delay claims, deny responsibility, or offer low settlements. Without legal representation, victims may not receive the compensation they deserve. A personal injury attorney can:

Maximize Your Claim: Covering all medical bills, lost wages, and future care needs.

Prove Liability: Investigate the accident, driver’s status, and insurance policies.

Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Ensure you receive maximum compensation.

File a Lawsuit if Necessary: If the rideshare company refuses a fair settlement.