Ordering a ride through Uber or Lyft has become second nature for many people in Central New York. But when a rideshare ride ends in a serious accident, the situation quickly gets more complicated than a typical car crash.
If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be wondering: Who pays? Whose insurance applies? What should I do next?
At MCV Law, our car accident lawyers have years of experience dealing with complex cases involving multiple insurance companies. We know how to sort out responsibility, fight back against insurers who try to minimize claims, and guide you through a stressful time with clear answers and ongoing communication.
Who Pays After a Rideshare Accident?
Unlike a typical car accident, rideshare crashes can involve several layers of insurance coverage:
- The rideshare driver’s insurance – Uber and Lyft drivers are required to have their own auto insurance. But many personal policies don’t apply when the car is being used for ridesharing.
- The rideshare company’s insurance – Uber and Lyft provide commercial coverage (up to $1 million, depending on the trip status) when a driver is logged into the app, en route to pick up a passenger, or transporting one.
- Other drivers’ insurance – If another vehicle caused the accident, their insurer may also be responsible.
Unfortunately, insurance companies often argue over who should pay, delaying the process and leaving injured passengers stuck in the middle. That’s why it’s critical to have an attorney who understands rideshare liability and won’t let insurers push responsibility onto someone else.
Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents
Just like other car accidents, Uber and Lyft crashes can cause serious injuries, including:
• Broken bones
• Head injuries and concussions
• Neck and back injuries, including whiplash
• Internal injuries
• Emotional trauma
Even if your injuries don’t appear severe right away, symptoms can worsen over time. Medical care, missed work, and long-term recovery add up quickly — and insurance companies may try to pay you as little as possible.
Why Uber & Lyft Accidents Are Different
Rideshare accidents bring unique challenges:
- Distracted driving – Drivers rely heavily on apps and GPS, which can take their attention off the road.
- Independent contractor status – Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, allowing the companies to argue they aren’t directly responsible for accidents.
- Evidence issues – App data, GPS records, and driver status must often be obtained quickly, and rideshare companies don’t always make that easy.
Because of these added layers, rideshare accidents often require more investigation and legal experience than a regular car crash.
What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, protect yourself by:
1. Calling 911 and getting medical care.
2. Filing a police report.
3. Taking screenshots of your trip details in the Uber or Lyft app.
4. Gathering witness information if possible.
5. Speaking with an attorney before giving a statement to any insurance company.
What If I Was the Driver?
Car accident cases aren’t only about injured passengers. At MCV Law, we also represent drivers — including Uber and Lyft drivers — who have been hurt in crashes. Rideshare drivers face unique challenges because of the possibility of a Workers Compensation claim and the multiple insurance companies that may be involved, depending on whether they were on a trip, waiting for a ride request, or driving for personal reasons. Our team knows how to sort through these details and fight for the full compensation that injured drivers deserve.
Why Choose MCV Law After a Rideshare Accident?
When you choose MCV Law’s car accident lawyers, you get more than legal knowledge. You get a team that values clear communication, responsiveness, and personal attention.
Our clients often tell us how much it mattered to have their questions answered quickly, their concerns taken seriously, and their stress eased during such a difficult time. We focus on the legal details — dealing with insurance companies, investigating the accident, and fighting for full compensation — so you can focus on healing.
If you’ve been hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident in Syracuse or anywhere in Central New York, don’t let the insurance companies decide your future.
Call MCV Law today at 315-471-1664 for a free consultation.