You didn’t pick the car or the route. You weren’t even driving. But if the Uber or Lyft you’re riding in gets into a crash, you’re the one dealing with the aftermath, and the process can look different from a typical car accident.

Coverage Depends on the Driver’s App Status

One of the most important things to understand after a rideshare accident is that insurance coverage can depend on what the driver was doing in the app when the crash occurred. Both Uber and Lyft publish information about how their coverage changes depending on the driver’s status, although specific coverage and requirements can vary by state.

When the driver is offline, their personal auto policy generally applies. When the driver is logged in and waiting for a request, Uber and Lyft maintain third-party liability coverage for covered accidents, although the specific coverage and limits can vary by state. Uber and Lyft currently list $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage, as their general coverage during this period.

Once the driver accepts a ride and is en route to pick you up or has you in the car, Uber and Lyft generally provide at least $1 million in third-party liability coverage for covered accidents, although exceptions and additional state-specific coverage can apply.

If you were a passenger, save your trip information so there’s a record of exactly when and where the crash occurred.

Document the Ride, Not Just the Crash

Photos of the damage are important, but don’t forget to document the ride itself. Save:

  • Your trip receipt, ride ID, and route map
  • The driver’s name and information
  • The vehicle’s make, model, and license plate
  • Photos of the vehicles, accident scene, and visible injuries
  • Contact information for any witnesses

Insurers may need to determine which phase of the trip the driver was in because that can affect which coverage applies. Your trip record can help establish what the driver was doing when the crash occurred, so save it while it’s readily available.

Get Medical Attention

Some injuries aren’t immediately obvious after a crash. The CDC notes that concussion symptoms can appear immediately or may not appear until days after an injury. If you’re experiencing pain or other symptoms, seek medical attention and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.

Keep copies of medical records, bills, and other documentation related to the accident. These records can help establish a timeline connecting your injuries to the crash.

Report the Accident Through the App

Both Uber and Lyft provide ways for riders to report accidents through their platforms. Report the crash as soon as reasonably possible and keep copies of any related communications.

When describing what happened, stick to the facts you know. Avoid guessing about who was at fault or making assumptions about the extent of your injuries.

When Should You Talk to a Lawyer?

A rideshare crash can involve multiple insurance policies, including the rideshare company’s coverage, the driver’s personal policy, and another driver’s insurance if someone else caused the crash. Determining which coverage applies can become more complicated when fault or coverage is disputed.

State laws, fault rules, and filing deadlines also vary, so the specifics of a claim depend on where the crash happened. If you were injured, are having trouble with a claim, or aren’t sure which coverage applies, consider speaking with a rideshare accident lawyer about your situation.

Key Takeaways

After a rideshare accident, prioritize your safety, document the crash and your trip, seek medical attention when necessary, and preserve your records. These steps can help protect important information about the accident and your injuries.