Rideshare crashes raise a question that ordinary crashes don't: whose insurance pays? The answer can involve the rideshare driver's personal policy, Uber's or Lyft's commercial policy and the other driver's insurance. This guide explains how it usually works.
Why is rideshare insurance different?
Rideshare drivers use their personal cars for business. Most personal auto policies exclude or limit coverage for commercial driving. To fill the gap, Uber and Lyft carry commercial insurance that applies at certain times — and many states set rules for that coverage.
Who pays depends on the app status
Think of it in three periods.
Period 1: App off
The driver is just a regular driver. Their personal auto policy usually applies, as in any other crash.
Period 2: App on, waiting for a request
The driver is logged in and available but has not accepted a ride. In this period, the rideshare company typically provides limited liability coverage that applies if the driver's personal insurance does not.
Period 3: Ride accepted or in progress
From the moment the driver accepts a request until the passenger leaves the car, the rideshare company's commercial policy usually applies, with much higher liability limits than most personal policies. Many states also require uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage during this period.
Coverage amounts and details vary by state and company policy and can change, so an attorney should confirm what applies to your crash.
I was a passenger. Who pays?
Passengers are rarely at fault, so the question is usually which policy pays first. If your driver caused the crash during your trip, the rideshare company's commercial policy will often apply. If another driver caused it, their insurer may be responsible — with rideshare UM/UIM coverage stepping in if they have too little insurance. In no-fault states, PIP may pay medical bills first.
I was hit by a rideshare car. Who pays?
It depends on the driver's app status. If you were another driver, a pedestrian or a cyclist hit by a rideshare car, you may have a claim against the driver's personal policy (app off) or the rideshare company's coverage (app on). Police reports and the driver's own statements can help establish their status. See pedestrian hit by a car if you were on foot.
I'm a rideshare driver. Who pays for my injuries?
It depends on who caused the crash and your app status. If another driver caused the crash, you may claim against their insurer. Rideshare companies may provide some coverage for drivers' own injuries in certain periods, and some drivers buy rideshare endorsements on their personal policies. If you were hurt while working, consider getting advice quickly — these claims can be complicated.
What evidence matters in a rideshare accident?
- Screenshots of the trip — driver name, car, plate, pick-up time and route
- The trip receipt and any in-app incident report
- Photos of the vehicles, the scene and your injuries
- The police report number
- The other driver's insurance information
- Medical records from your first visit onward
What should I do after a rideshare accident?
- Get to safety and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Call the police and get the report number.
- Screenshot your trip in the app before it disappears from recent rides.
- Report the crash in the app.
- Photograph the vehicles, plates and scene.
- Get witness names and numbers.
- See a doctor promptly.
- Be careful with recorded statements to any insurer. Read should I talk to the other driver's insurance?
When should I talk to a lawyer?
If you were hurt, especially when more than one insurer is involved. Rideshare claims often involve several companies pointing at each other. A free consultation can help sort out which policy applies. Learn more on our rideshare accident claims page, or start a free case review.