Law Blog

As Uber and Lyft continue to dominate the rideshare market, more people are relying on them for safe and convenient transportation. But what happens if you’re injured in an accident while riding in one? Who’s responsible—your driver, the company, or someone else on the road?

At Sherwood Law Group, we understand how confusing these situations can be. Rideshare injury claims come with unique challenges and policies that differ from traditional car accidents. Here's what you need to know if you’ve been injured in a rideshare crash—and how to protect your rights.

Understanding Uber & Lyft’s Insurance Policies

Both Uber and Lyft carry liability insurance for their drivers, but the amount of coverage depends on when the accident occurs. These companies divide each ride into three coverage periods:

• Period 1: The driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request.
   → Limited liability coverage applies—typically up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
  
  
• Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up a passenger.
   → Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage.
  
  
• Period 3: The passenger is in the vehicle.
   → The same $1 million policy applies, including coverage for uninsured or underinsured motorists.
  
  

This coverage sounds generous—but getting the compensation you deserve isn’t always easy. That’s where the role of insurance companies comes in. These companies are still motivated to pay out as little as possible, and navigating whose policy applies can get complicated fast.

When Is the Driver Liable vs. the Company?

In most rideshare accidents, liability depends on who caused the crash and what the driver was doing at the time.

• If your Uber or Lyft driver was at fault, you may be able to file a claim against their personal auto insurance or the rideshare company’s policy, depending on which period they were in.
  
  
• If another driver caused the crash, you would typically file a claim against that driver’s insurance. However, if that driver is uninsured or flees the scene, Uber and Lyft’s uninsured motorist coverage may come into play.
  
  
• If the accident involved a defect in the vehicle (such as brake failure), you may have grounds for a product liability claim, which falls under one of the different types of personal injury cases we handle at Sherwood Law Group.
  
  

Determining who is legally responsible can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved. That’s why having an experienced attorney is critical for a successful claim.

What to Do if You're a Passenger in a Rideshare Accident

If you were injured while riding as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, here’s what you should do immediately:

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries can show up hours or days later.

2. Report the Incident to the Rideshare App

Both Uber and Lyft have in-app features to report accidents. This creates an official record tied to your ride.

3. Gather Evidence

• Take photos of the vehicles and your injuries
• Screenshot your ride details from the app
• Collect contact information from witnesses and other parties involved
  
  

4. Avoid Giving Recorded Statements

Before speaking with insurance adjusters, it’s wise to talk with an attorney. Remember, the role of insurance companies is to minimize payouts—not to protect your best interests.

5. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

A lawyer can help you identify which insurance policy applies, gather the evidence you need, and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.

Why Legal Representation Matters

While rideshare companies provide significant insurance coverage, actually accessing those funds can be another story. Proving fault, coordinating between multiple insurers, and documenting your damages all take legal strategy.

At Sherwood Law Group, we’ve successfully handled countless personal injury claims—including complex rideshare cases. We understand the nuances of working with Uber, Lyft, and their insurers, and we’ll fight to get you the compensation you’re entitled to.

Our attorneys are experienced in all different types of personal injury cases, and we’ll guide you through every step—from investigating the crash to negotiating a fair settlement.

Contact Sherwood Law Group Today

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident as a passenger, don’t leave your case to chance. Call Sherwood Law Group at 312-627-1650 or visit www.sherwoodlawgroup.com to schedule your free consultation.

We’ll make sure witnesses, insurance companies, and corporate policies don’t stand in the way of your recovery.