Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made transportation more convenient, but accidents involving these vehicles can be legally complex. Whether you were a passenger, another driver, a pedestrian, or a cyclist, figuring out who is liable and what insurance applies isn’t always straightforward.

At The Clark Law Office, we help rideshare accident victims recover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering from insurance companies and negligent drivers. As a smaller law firm, we provide personalized attention.  You will never get passed off to an associate or a call center.

If you were injured in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft,, we’re here to help. Call us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Is a Rideshare Accident?

A rideshare accident involves a crash with an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare vehicle whether you were a passenger, driver, pedestrian, cyclist, or in another car. These accidents are different from regular car crashes because Uber and Lyft drivers operate as independent contractors, not employees, which can complicate liability and insurance claims.

Unlike traditional taxi services, Uber and Lyft drivers use their personal vehicles and rely on a layered insurance system that depends on their app status at the time of the crash. This means who pays for damages may vary depending on whether the rideshare driver was:

  • Offline (using their car for personal reasons)
  • Waiting for a ride request
  • On the way to pick up a passenger
  • Transporting a passenger

Because of these unique legal and insurance complexities, injured victims often struggle to recover the full compensation they deserve. If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident in Michigan, speaking with an experienced Uber/Lyft accident lawyer can help you navigate the insurance claims process and legal options.

Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Liability in rideshare accidents can be complicated because multiple insurance policies may be involved. Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, fault depends on what the Uber or Lyft driver was doing at the time of the crash.

Uber and Lyft do provide insurance coverage, but only in specific situations. Below is a breakdown of who is responsible for covering damages depending on the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the accident.  Below is a breakdown of how fault and insurance coverage are determined in different rideshare accident scenarios.

🚗 Who’s At Fault?⚖️ Liability Determination🔍 Who Can Be Sued?
🏎️ Rideshare DriverCaused the accident due to negligence (e.g., speeding, distracted driving)Injured parties can sue the driver and possibly Uber/Lyft depending on ride status
🚘 Another DriverA third-party driver caused the crash (e.g., rear-ended the Uber/Lyft)Injured parties can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance
🏢 Uber/Lyft ItselfThe rideshare company failed to conduct proper background checks or maintain vehicle safetyUber/Lyft could be sued in rare cases involving gross negligence
⚖️ Both Drivers Share FaultComparative negligence applies—liability is split based on fault percentageCompensation depends on fault percentage and available insurance coverage

Regardless of who caused the accident, rideshare insurance only kicks in under specific conditions. If you’re involved in an Uber or Lyft crash, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Michigan rideshare accident lawyer to ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.

Does Uber or Lyft Provide Insurance Coverage for Accidents?

Yes, Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage, but the amount of coverage depends on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the accident. Because rideshare drivers use their personal vehicles, their own insurance may also come into play.  Below is a breakdown of Uber and Lyft’s insurance coverage based on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:

🚦 Driver’s Ride Status💰 Uber/Lyft Insurance Coverage📜 Coverage Details
App is OFF (Not Accepting Rides)🚫 No Uber/Lyft coverageDriver’s personal insurance applies
App is ON (Waiting for Ride Request)✅ Limited coverage: $50k per person, $100k per accident, $25k property damageKicks in only if the driver’s personal insurance denies coverage
Accepted a Ride (On the Way or Passenger in Car)🛡️ Full coverage: $1M liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and contingent collision coverageApplies from ride acceptance until passenger drop-off

Even though Uber and Lyft offer significant coverage, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, working with a lawyer familiar with Uber and Lyft insurance claims can help you recover the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

A rideshare accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately can protect your health, legal rights, and potential compensation. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Check for injuries and call 911 – Prioritize your safety and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries don’t appear right away.
  2. Report the accident – Notify the police and request an official accident report, which will be crucial for your claim.
  3. Document the scene – Take photos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather witness contact information if possible.
  4. Report to Uber or Lyft – Both companies have in-app accident reporting features. Make sure the incident is logged with the rideshare company.
  5. Notify your insurance company – Even if Uber or Lyft provides coverage, your insurer should be informed of the accident.
  6. Speak with a lawyer before accepting any settlement – Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. An experienced rideshare accident attorney can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Taking these steps can make all the difference in your case. If you’ve been injured, reach out for a free consultation to explore your legal options.

Compensation Available to Rideshare Accident Victims

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. The damages you can recover depend on the severity of your injuries, the insurance coverage available, and whether the rideshare driver or another party was at fault. Below is a breakdown of the types of compensation available after a rideshare crash:

💰 Type of Compensation📝 What It Covers
🏥 Medical ExpensesHospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
💼 Lost WagesCompensation for time missed from work due to accident-related injuries.
📉 Reduced Earning CapacityIf your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or career.
😣 Pain and SufferingPhysical pain, emotional distress, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life.
🚗 Vehicle & Property DamageRepairs or replacement for your car, phone, or other personal belongings damaged in the crash.
👨‍👩‍👦 Wrongful Death DamagesFuneral costs, loss of companionship, and financial support for surviving family members (if applicable).

The insurance process for rideshare accidents can be complex, and insurance companies may try to minimize your payout. A rideshare accident lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the full compensation you deserve.  If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft crash, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents in Michigan

Navigating the aftermath of an Uber or Lyft accident can be confusing. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about rideshare accident claims in Michigan.

Who is responsible for my injuries in a rideshare accident?

Liability depends on who caused the accident. If the rideshare driver was at fault, their personal or Uber/Lyft insurance may cover your damages. If another driver was responsible, their insurance would be liable.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft for my accident?

Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, meaning the companies are typically not directly liable. However, their insurance policies provide coverage in certain situations.

Does Uber or Lyft provide insurance coverage for passengers?

Yes, both companies provide up to $1 million in liability coverage for passengers when a ride is in progress. The amount of coverage depends on whether the driver was waiting for a ride request, en route, or actively transporting a passenger.

What should I do if the rideshare driver was uninsured?

If the driver did not have personal insurance, Uber and Lyft provide uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, which may compensate you for injuries.

How long do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident?

In Michigan, the statute of limitations for car accident injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, claims against insurance policies often have shorter deadlines, so it's best to act quickly.

Should I talk to Uber or Lyft’s insurance company?

Be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters, as they may try to minimize your claim. Before providing a statement, consult with an attorney to ensure you protect your rights.

Contact a Michigan Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you need a lawyer who will fight for the compensation you deserve. At The Clark Law Office, we don’t treat you like just another case—we provide personalized legal representation to ensure your rights are protected.  Rideshare companies and their insurance providers will try to limit your payout. We know their tactics, and we won’t let them take advantage of you. Whether you were a passenger, rideshare driver, or hit by an Uber or Lyft vehicle, we’re here to help.

Call us at (517) 347-6900 or fill out our online contact form to discuss your case with an experienced Michigan rideshare accident attorney. There are no fees unless we win your case. Let’s fight for the compensation you deserve.

5/5 - (1 vote)