Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are convenient, but when an accident happens, figuring out who pays for your injuries gets complicated. Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crashes involve multiple layers of liability and insurance policies that depend on the driver’s status at the time of the incident.
If you were hurt in a rideshare accident, understanding your rights and the available insurance coverage is critical. Here’s what to know, including key details about TNC (Transportation Network Company) insurance, third-party claims, and how cases like Doe v. Lyft are shaping outcomes for victims.
1. The Basics of TNC Insurance Coverage
Both Uber and Lyft provide liability insurance for their drivers, but the level of coverage depends on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident:
- App Off: When the driver is not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance is the only coverage.
- App On, No Ride Accepted: When the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride request, Uber/Lyft provides limited liability coverage:
- Up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
- Up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- Ride Accepted or Passenger Onboard: Once a ride is accepted through drop-off, Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
This tiered insurance structure makes determining coverage tricky, especially if multiple parties are involved.
2. Who Can File a Rideshare Injury Claim?
A variety of people may be eligible to file a rideshare injury claim in California:
- Passengers injured during a ride
- Drivers of other vehicles hit by a rideshare car
- Pedestrians or cyclists struck by a rideshare driver
- Uber or Lyft drivers injured while working
The key is establishing what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. This determines which insurance policy applies.
3. The Role of Third-Party Liability
Not all rideshare accidents are caused by the Uber or Lyft driver. In some cases, a third-party driver may be fully or partially responsible. When that happens:
- The at-fault driver’s insurance is the primary source of compensation.
- If their policy limits are too low, Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured coverage may kick in—if the rideshare driver was on the app and engaged in a ride.
Navigating these claims requires careful coordination between multiple insurers. Having a knowledgeable Uber accident lawyer in California is crucial to avoid delays and denials.
4. Case Spotlight: Doe v. Lyft (2022)
In a high-profile but confidential settlement known as Doe v. Lyft, the company agreed to compensate a victim who was severely injured while riding with a Lyft driver. While the specific terms were sealed, the case drew attention to gaps in driver screening, company oversight, and the complexity of rideshare-related injury litigation.
This case—and others like it—highlight the importance of securing legal representation early to ensure victims are not sidelined by corporate legal teams.
5. Special Considerations for Uber and Lyft Drivers
Drivers injured while working for a rideshare platform may have access to TNC insurance, but they are generally not covered by traditional workers’ compensation. However, both Uber and Lyft offer limited driver injury protection plans that may cover:
- Medical bills
- Disability payments
- Survivor benefits
Enrollment in these programs is optional, and many drivers aren’t even aware of them. If you’re a driver injured in a crash, consult with a personal injury attorney to explore all available recovery options.
6. What Damages Can Victims Recover?
Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, you may be eligible for compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
In cases involving permanent injury or death, additional damages may be pursued. The presence of commercial insurance often increases the potential value of the claim.
7. What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
To protect your health and legal rights:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and injuries
- Get contact info for all drivers and witnesses
- Make note of the rideshare driver’s app status (screenshot if possible)
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Avoid making recorded statements to insurers
Then, contact a personal injury attorney with experience in rideshare cases.
8. Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Uber and Lyft have teams of lawyers and insurers trained to limit payouts. Don’t expect them to prioritize your well-being.
An experienced rideshare attorney can:
- Determine the correct insurance coverage
- Gather evidence and driver data from the TNC
- Handle complex multi-party negotiations
- Maximize your settlement or take the case to trial if necessary
At B&D Injury Law, we know how to hold transportation network companies (TNCs) and negligent drivers accountable. We work to secure full compensation while you focus on healing.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Insurance Confusion Delay Your Recovery
Rideshare accidents are complicated, but your path to compensation doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, or other driver, you have rights—and options.
If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft crash, contact B&D Injury Law for a free case review. We’ll help you understand your legal options and build a strategy to recover what you deserve.