A night out, a quick airport ride, or a safe way home; ridesharing feels like freedom on demand. Yet when an Uber or Lyft rideshare accident happens, that sense of control disappears fast.
One careless moment behind the wheel can leave passengers, drivers, and pedestrians facing medical bills, lost work, and uncertainty about who’s responsible. Knowing what steps to take next helps you recover physically and financially.
Understanding Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accidents
Uber and Lyft rideshare accidents are different from standard car crashes because multiple parties may share responsibility. Drivers work as independent contractors, not employees, which complicates liability.
The company’s insurance coverage changes depending on whether the driver was using the app or carrying a passenger at the time of the collision. Understanding this difference is key to knowing who pays for damages.
Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accidents
Even with advanced GPS systems and app technology, human error remains the leading cause of rideshare accidents. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Driver fatigue after long shifts or multiple gigs
- Distractions from phones or the rideshare app
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Speeding or ignoring traffic signals
These behaviors turn routine trips into emergencies. Passengers and other road users often suffer injuries that can lead to long recovery times and emotional distress.
When and How You Can File a Claim
Victims of Uber and Lyft rideshare accidents have legal rights, but the process depends on the driver’s status during the crash:
- Offline Drivers: When the driver isn’t logged into the rideshare app, their personal insurance covers the damages.
- Online and Waiting for a Request: When logged in but not transporting anyone, Uber or Lyft’s contingent liability coverage applies. They are offering up to $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Carrying a Passenger or En Route to One: Once the trip begins, Primary Liability Insurance from the rideshare company can cover up to $1 million for injuries or property loss.
A skilled personal injury lawyer can determine which insurance applies and negotiate a fair settlement with the insurer.
Your Rights as a Passenger After an Accident
Passengers in rideshare vehicles deserve protection, too. If you are injured, you can:
- File Against Another Driver’s Insurance: If another motorist caused the crash, you can pursue their insurer for damages.
- File Against the Rideshare Driver or Company: When the rideshare driver is at fault, both Uber and Lyft carry $1 million policies to cover passenger injuries.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, both rideshare companies include additional coverage to help victims recover compensation. After the accident, contacting an attorney quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthen your claim.
Why Legal Guidance Makes a Difference
A lawyer’s role goes beyond filing paperwork. Attorneys investigate each case, determine fault, and uncover every available insurance source. They negotiate settlements that reflect the true cost of medical care, lost wages, and long-term effects.
This guidance can change the outcome of your recovery for severe injuries. If the available insurance doesn’t cover your damages, your attorney may pursue compensation through your own underinsured motorist policy.
Costa Ivone: Advocating for Rideshare Accident Victims
At Costa Ivone, we’ve helped countless clients recover after Uber and Lyft rideshare accidents in Illinois. Our team focuses on protecting injured passengers, pedestrians, and drivers who deserve a voice after serious collisions.
We guide clients through every step to help them rebuild, from insurance claims to settlement discussions.
In addition to rideshare cases, our firm also handles workers’ compensation claims. Our approach is always personal, straightforward, and built on results.
Take Back Control After a Rideshare Crash
An Uber or Lyft rideshare accident can disrupt more than your plans—it can change your life. Costa Ivone is here to help you regain control. Our team fights for the recovery and peace of mind every victim deserves.
Reach out today to schedule a free consultation. Talk directly with attorneys who understand the challenges rideshare victims face and know how to fight for your recovery.
Let’s turn a moment of impact into a plan for progress.