Who is liable in an Uber or Lyft accident?
Liability in a rideshare accident depends on who caused the crash and what 'period' the driver was in. If the rideshare driver caused the accident, Uber or Lyft's insurance covers you (up to $1M during Periods 2–3). If another driver caused the accident while you were a passenger, that driver's insurance is primary, with Uber/Lyft's uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage as a backstop. In some cases, multiple parties share liability — the rideshare driver, another driver, and even the rideshare company if there was negligent hiring.
How much insurance does Uber and Lyft carry?
During active trips (Periods 2 and 3), both Uber and Lyft carry $1 million in third-party liability coverage per accident, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and contingent comprehensive/collision coverage. During Period 1 (app on, waiting for a ride), coverage drops to $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident. When the app is off, only the driver's personal insurance applies.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
Suing Uber or Lyft directly is difficult because they classify drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This limits their direct liability. However, you can file a claim against their insurance policy, which provides up to $1M in coverage. In cases of negligent hiring (e.g., Uber failed to screen a driver with a dangerous driving history), direct lawsuits against the company are possible. An attorney experienced in rideshare cases can advise on the best strategy.
What if the rideshare driver was at fault?
If the Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident and you were a passenger, you can file a claim against Uber/Lyft's $1M liability policy. You do not need to sue the driver personally. The process involves reporting the accident through the app, seeking medical treatment, and working with an attorney to file a claim. Uber and Lyft have dedicated insurance teams that handle these claims — having your own attorney significantly improves your outcome.
What if another driver hit the Uber I was riding in?
If a third-party driver caused the accident while you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you have multiple potential sources of compensation: (1) the at-fault driver's liability insurance; (2) Uber/Lyft's uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured; and (3) your own uninsured motorist coverage if applicable. You are entitled to full compensation for your injuries regardless of which driver caused the crash.
How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim?
The statute of limitations for rideshare accident claims follows your state's personal injury deadline — typically 2 years from the date of the accident. However, claims against Uber or Lyft's insurance companies may have shorter internal reporting deadlines. You should report the accident through the app immediately and consult an attorney as soon as possible. Waiting too long can result in lost evidence and missed deadlines.