Who Pays After an Uber or Lyft Crash?
The most common question after a rideshare crash is a simple one with a complicated answer: whose insurance pays? It usually comes down to what the driver was doing on the app.
It depends on the app status
Rideshare insurance is layered, and which policy applies depends on whether the driver was offline, logged in and waiting for a request, or actively en route or carrying a passenger. That app status is the key to the whole question.
App off: personal insurance
When the driver was not logged in, they are treated as an ordinary motorist, and their personal auto insurance applies. The rideshare company's coverage generally does not come into play.
Waiting for a request: a smaller policy
Once logged in but before accepting a ride, a smaller contingent policy from the rideshare company may apply, often on top of the driver's personal insurance if it does not cover the loss.
En route or on a trip: the larger policy
After the driver accepts a ride and while a passenger is aboard, the rideshare company's larger commercial policy typically applies, and uninsured motorist coverage may apply too.
Frequently asked questions
How do I prove which period applied?
The rideshare company's records of the driver's status and trip are the best proof, along with your own app screenshots. Preserving that evidence early is important.
Keep reading
This article is general information about Rideshare Accidents injury law, not legal advice. Every case is different — talk to a lawyer about your situation.
The law depends on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to rideshare accidents.
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