Rideshare accidents are not the same as typical car crashes. When an Uber or Lyft driver is
involved, questions of liability and insurance coverage can become complicated. Knowing what
to do immediately after the crash and understanding how these cases differ will make a
significant difference in protecting your rights.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
- Call 911
Report the accident to law enforcement right away. In California, accidents that involve
injuries or significant property damage must be reported within 24 hours. Be sure to
request a copy of the police report, as it will play an essential role in your claim. - Seek Medical Care
Even if you do not think you are seriously hurt, get checked by a medical professional.
Some injuries are not immediately apparent, and any delay in treatment can weaken
your case. - Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of everything at the crash site, including the vehicles, skid
marks, roadway conditions, traffic signs, and license plates. If you have dashcam
footage, preserve it. Also, keep copies of medical records, repair estimates, and any
proof of lost wages. - Exchange Information
Get the rideshare driver’s name, license, contact details, and insurance information.
Most importantly, note the driver’s status on the Uber or Lyft app, such as whether they
were logged in, waiting for a ride, en route, or carrying a passenger. This step is critical
in determining which insurance coverage applies. - Consult an Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney Before Speaking to Insurers
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Talking to them before consulting a
rideshare lawyer could hurt your claim. An attorney can help you navigate statements,
paperwork, and settlement negotiations.
How Rideshare Accidents Differ from Regular Collisions
The major difference in Uber and Lyft accidents lies in insurance coverage, which depends on
the driver’s status at the time of the crash:
● Period 0 (App off): The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
● Period 1 (App on, waiting for a request): The rideshare company provides limited
coverage—$50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for
property damage.
● Periods 2 and 3 (Driver en route to pick up or is transporting a passenger): Uber
and Lyft provide up to $1 million in primary liability coverage, and in some cases,
uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Because of these layers, rideshare cases often involve multiple insurers. Determining coverage
may require app data, GPS records, or timestamps to prove exactly what the driver was doing
when the crash happened.
Insurance Company Tactics to Watch Out For
● Coverage disputes: Insurers may argue the driver wasn’t logged in or try to place the
accident in a coverage period with lower limits.
● Quick settlements: Early offers often undervalue claims. Settling before the full extent
of injuries is known can leave you undercompensated.
● Recorded statements: Insurance adjusters may push for a statement to use against
you later. It’s best to decline until you have legal representation.
Legal Considerations in California
● DMV Reporting: If injuries, death, or property damage exceed $1,000, the accident
must also be reported to the DMV within 10 days using form SR-1, even if a police report
has already been filed.
● Proposition 22: Because rideshare drivers are independent contractors and not
employees, company liability will be limited.
● Statute of Limitations: In most personal injury cases, you have two years from the date
of injury to file a claim. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to recover
compensation.
Final Thoughts
Being hit by an Uber or Lyft driver adds unique challenges to the normal accident process.
Multiple layers of insurance, strict reporting requirements, and potential disputes over app status
make these cases more complex than they first appear. The best steps you can take are to
report the accident, seek medical treatment, carefully document everything, and get legal help
before speaking with insurers.
For more information on protecting your rights after an accident, you can visit our page on
Fresno personal injury lawyer.
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