What to Do If You're in an Uber or Lyft Accident

Getting into an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft — or being hit by one — can be confusing because rideshare insurance works in layers depending on whether the driver had the app on, was waiting for a ride request, or had a passenger in the car.

Uber and Lyft's Insurance Coverage Explained

There are three phases that determine which insurance applies:

• App off (Period 0): Only the driver's personal auto insurance applies. Uber/Lyft provide nothing.
• App on, no ride accepted (Period 1): Uber/Lyft provide contingent liability coverage — $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage. Applies only if the driver's personal insurance denies the claim.
• Ride accepted or passenger in car (Periods 2 and 3): Uber/Lyft's full $1 million commercial liability policy applies. This is the most protective phase and covers accidents from when the driver accepts a ride to when the passenger is dropped off.

If You Were a Passenger

As a passenger, you are not at fault. You have a direct claim against whatever insurance applies — Uber/Lyft's $1M policy if the driver had a passenger accepted, or the at-fault driver's insurance if a third party caused the crash. Preserve your trip receipt and the driver's information from the app. Report the accident in the Uber or Lyft app immediately. Visit our rideshare accident guide for a full checklist.

If a Rideshare Vehicle Hit You

If you were in another car, on a bike, or walking when an Uber or Lyft driver hit you, the same period analysis applies. The most important question is: did the driver have the app active and a ride accepted? Check whether their trip receipt shows they were in Period 2/3 — if so, the $1M policy is available to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?

Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, which generally shields the companies from direct vicarious liability. You typically claim against their insurance policy, not against the company itself. Cases involving negligent hiring or app defects may be exceptions — consult an attorney.

What if the Uber driver was uninsured?

If the driver had the app active, Uber/Lyft's policy applies regardless of whether the driver had personal insurance. The commercial policy steps in specifically to cover gaps in driver coverage.

How long do I have to file a claim after an Uber/Lyft accident?

California's 2-year statute of limitations applies to rideshare accidents like any other personal injury claim. However, Uber and Lyft both require accident reports to be filed promptly through their apps. Delays can complicate your claim even within the legal window.