Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed the way we travel. They are fast, convenient, and often cheaper than taxis. But, like no other car on the road, your Uber or Lyft isn’t immune from collisions.
If this has happened to you, you may have many questions. “Who will pay for my medical bills?” “What if Uber or Lyft denies responsibility?” and “And how do I even start the claims process to get compensation?”
If you or a loved one suffered an injury in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft, you should always reach out to a seasoned Bakersfield rideshare accident attorney to answer all of your questions and explain your next steps.
In this guide, we are going to address all the concerns you may have after an Uber or Lyft accident in terms of filing a claim and obtaining the compensation to which you are entitled.
Uber and Lyft’s Insurance Policies Regarding Rideshare Accidents
After a car crash, “Who pays for the damages?” is one of the first questions you will face after you get checked by a doctor. When Uber or Lyft is involved, the answer isn’t always simple.
While rideshare companies provide insurance for their drivers, the coverage depends on what stage of the ride the driver was in at the time of the collision. Here’s how it works:
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The Driver Wasn’t Logged Into the App
At this stage, Uber and Lyft don’t consider the driver to be “on the job.”
That means their personal auto insurance will be responsible for covering any damages. If you were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver while they were off duty, you will have to file a claim against their personal insurance—just like any other car accident.
For example, if the accident happened in California with a local driver whose insurance meets the state’s minimum liability insurance requirements, they should have at least $30,000 per person for injuries, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
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The Driver Was Logged In but Hadn’t Accepted a Ride
If the driver was waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage that includes:
- $50,000 per person for injuries
- $100,000 per accident (total for all injured parties)
- $25,000 for property damage
This might sound like a lot, but medical bills can easily exceed these limits in a serious crash. If the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance, you may need to pursue additional compensation.
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The Driver Had Accepted a Ride or Had a Passenger
This is when Uber and Lyft provide their best coverage:
- Up to $1 million in liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (in some cases)
- Contingent collision and comprehensive coverage (if the driver has their full-coverage policy)
This high level of insurance applies from the moment the driver accepts a ride request until the passenger exits the vehicle. If you are a rideshare passenger and your driver gets into an accident, this is the policy that should cover all your expenses.
If another driver was at fault, their insurance should pay your damages first. However, Uber and Lyft’s $1 million policy might cover the gap if they’re uninsured or underinsured.
When Can You File a Claim Against Uber or Lyft?
Accidents involving Uber and Lyft vehicles are not uncommon. According to rideshare crash research cited by the University of Illinois, one-third of surveyed rideshare drivers reported being in a crash on the job.
However, not every accident involving Uber or Lyft means you can file a claim against these companies. These companies hire the best lawyers to help them avoid responsibility.
So, when can you hold them accountable? Here are the most common scenarios where you can file a claim against the rideshare company:
- You were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft: If you were a paying passenger during a rideshare trip, you are fully covered under Uber or Lyft’s $1 million policy. It doesn’t matter who caused the accident—whether it was your driver, another motorist, or even a hit-and-run driver. You can file a claim if you suffered an injury while on Uber or Lyft.
- You were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver: Were you walking, biking, or driving when an Uber or Lyft driver hit you? You may have a claim against Uber or Lyft’s insurance if (a) the driver was logged into the app and waiting for a ride request or (b) the driver was on their way to pick up a passenger or had one in the car.
- You were an Uber or Lyft driver injured by another driver: If you were driving for Uber or Lyft and another driver caused the crash, their insurance should pay for your damages. However, Uber and Lyft’s policy may cover you if that driver is uninsured or underinsured.
- A loved one was killed in an Uber or Lyft accident: If a family member died in a crash involving Uber or Lyft, you can pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation can help pay for medical expenses, funeral costs, and lost financial support. If Uber or Lyft’s insurance applies, their $1 million policy can provide relief.
Uber and Lyft will generally try to avoid paying if they can, so they may argue:
- “The driver was off duty.” If the app wasn’t on, the driver’s personal insurance applies.
- “Another driver caused the crash.” In this case, the at-fault driver’s insurance is the first option.
- “You weren’t actually injured.” Insurance companies often downplay injuries to avoid large payouts.
If Uber or Lyft pushes back on your claim, don’t assume they are right. You need the assistance of a rideshare accident lawyer to help you fight back and get the compensation you deserve.
What Do You Need to Prove to File a Claim Against Uber or Lyft?
Filing a claim against Uber or Lyft isn’t as simple as saying, “I was hurt—pay me.” These companies and their insurance providers will demand proof. And if you can’t back up your claim, they will most certainly try to deny, delay, or reduce your payout.
So, what do you need to prove? Here are the three key things you must show to get compensation.
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The Uber or Lyft Driver Was at Fault (or Their Insurance Applies)
To hold Uber or Lyft responsible, you must prove that their driver caused the accident OR that their insurance policy should cover your damages.
- If your Uber/Lyft driver caused the crash (by speeding, running a red light, or driving recklessly), their $1 million policy should apply.
- If another driver hit your Uber or Lyft, you must first file a claim against that driver’s insurance. Uber or Lyft’s policy might step in if they are uninsured or underinsured.
- If you were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, you will need to show whether they were logged in to the app. If they weren’t, their personal insurance applies. If they were working, Uber or Lyft’s insurance should cover you.
To prove this point, you will need to gather as much evidence as you can, including photos of the crash scene and vehicle damage, a copy of the police report, contact information from witnesses, and others.
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You Were Injured in the Accident
Insurance companies won’t pay unless you prove you suffered an injury. That’s why it’s best to get medical attention immediately after the collision.
Your claim will be stronger if you have:
- Medical records showing your diagnosis and treatment
- Doctor’s notes connecting your injuries to the crash
- Photos of visible injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
- Witness statements confirming your pain or visible distress
Don’t expect Uber or Lyft to take your word for it. You need evidence to prove your injuries are real and caused by the accident.
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The Accident Caused You Financial Losses
Uber and Lyft’s insurance won’t hand out money just because you were in a crash. You must prove that the accident cost you something—physically, emotionally, or financially.
Common damages you can claim include:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, physical therapy, prescriptions)
- Lost earnings (if your injuries kept you from working)
- Property damage (if your car or belongings were damaged)
- Pain and suffering (for long-term physical or emotional distress)
According to the National Safety Council, the average cost of an evident injury after a motor vehicle crash is $42,000. But your case can be worth more or less, depending on the facts of your crash.
Remember: Uber and Lyft’s insurance companies will look for any excuse to deny your claim. The more proof you have, the harder it is for them to refuse payment.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Claim Against Uber or Lyft
Both Uber and Lyft have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters working to pay you as little as possible. If you don’t follow the right steps, you can end up with nothing—or far less than you deserve.
Want to win your claim? Here’s exactly what to do after you get medical help.
Step 1: Report the Accident to the Police (if You Haven’t Already)
A police report is credible proof of what happened. Without it, Uber or Lyft can deny the accident even took place. Follow these simple rules when talking to the police:
- Stick to the facts and don’t admit fault, even if you think it’s the right thing to say.
- Ask the officer for the report number so you can get a copy.
- Ensure the officer notes whether the driver was working for Uber or Lyft.
Remember: If the police weren’t called, Uber or Lyft might claim the crash wasn’t that serious and, as a result, refuse to pay. Follow your state’s rules for reporting a traffic accident. In California, for example, you should complete form SR-1 and submit it to the state’s DMV within 10 days of the accident.
Step 2: Gather as Much Evidence as Possible
The more proof you have, the harder it is for Uber or Lyft to deny your claim. Right after the accident, try to:
- Take photos of your injuries, the crash scene, vehicle damage, and any traffic signs or signals nearby;
- Get witness statements (and their contact info), and
- Ask the Uber or Lyft driver if they were logged into the app (this determines which insurance applies).
If you were the passenger, screenshot your Uber/Lyft ride history if you were a passenger. This proves you were on an active ride at the time of the crash.
Step 3: Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft
You must report the crash directly to Uber or Lyft. They have forms for this in their apps. Don’t give too much detail. Just say there was an accident, and you suffered an injury. Insurance adjusters will use your words against you later.
Step 4: Identify Which Insurance Policy Applies
Keep in mind that Uber and Lyft have different coverage levels depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. A rideshare accident attorney can help you understand which insurance policy applies.
Step 5: File a Claim With the Right Insurance Provider
Once you know which insurance applies, you need to file a claim.
- If the Uber/Lyft driver was at fault, file with their rideshare insurance.
- If another driver was responsible, file with their insurance first.
- Uber and Lyft’s uninsured motorist coverage may apply if that driver was uninsured.
Don’t assume the insurance company will treat you fairly. Insurance adjusters undergo training to delay and deny claims to save their companies as much money as possible.
Step 6: Don’t Accept a Lowball Settlement
Insurance companies often offer a quick, low payout to make you go away. They hope you will take the money before realizing how much your injuries will cost. And, unfortunately, that’s what many people do. But that’s a big mistake because you can’t ask for more later once you accept, even if your medical bills go through the roof. When in doubt, consult with a rideshare accident lawyer.
Should You Settle or Go to Trial With Your Claim Against Uber or Lyft?
When it’s time to decide whether you should settle or take your claim to trial, this isn’t a decision to take lightly. While everyone always wants to settle quickly and get as much money as possible, sometimes, taking the fight to court is the only way to get what you truly deserve. By hiring a rideshare accident attorney, you can make these decisions with a seasoned professional who understands the law and can protect your rights.
Speak with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Taking Uber or Lyft to trial is a gamble. If you win, you can get far more than their settlement offer. But if you lose, you can walk away with nothing. So, how do you decide? Speaking with a Bakersfield personal injury attorney to discuss your best course of action is always a good idea.