Injured While Driving for Uber or Lyft? Here’s What Rideshare Drivers Need to Know
Driving for Uber or Lyft comes with risks — especially in a city with high traffic density and unpredictable road conditions. If you were injured in a crash while working as a rideshare driver, you're not alone — and you're not without options. Whether you were hit while transporting a passenger or en route to a pickup, you may be entitled to compensation.
Here’s what you need to know about protecting yourself and your rights after a rideshare accident.
1. Your Injury May Be Covered by Uber or Lyft’s Insurance Policy
Uber and Lyft provide commercial insurance coverage that applies while you’re actively using the app. This coverage is divided into three periods:
- App off: Your personal auto insurance applies.
- App on, no ride accepted yet: Limited liability coverage ($50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident).
- Ride accepted or passenger in vehicle: Up to $1 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
If you were driving with a passenger or heading to pick one up, you’re covered under the highest tier. This policy can help with medical bills, lost income, and more — even if the at-fault driver is uninsured.
2. You May Be Entitled to Compensation — Even if You Weren’t at Fault
If another driver caused the crash, their insurance is usually the first source of recovery. But in many cases, the other driver may be uninsured or carry only minimal coverage. In those situations, Uber or Lyft’s UM/UIM policy can step in to fill the gap.
Injury-related compensation may include:
- Emergency medical care and hospital bills
- Physical therapy or long-term treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical expenses
3. Don’t Overlook Your Vehicle Damage and Downtime
In addition to physical injuries, many rideshare drivers suffer financially when their vehicles are damaged. If you’re unable to drive, that’s lost income — often for days or even weeks.
Compensation may also include:
- Repair or replacement of your vehicle
- Rental car or alternate transportation
- Diminished value of the vehicle
- Missed work and earnings while the car is inoperable
If you carry collision coverage through your personal policy or Uber/Lyft’s optional rideshare insurance, you may have additional benefits available.
4. What to Do Immediately After the Crash
Your actions after the accident can directly impact your case. If you were injured while driving for Uber or Lyft, take the following steps:
- Report the accident through the rideshare app
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries
- Get medical attention as soon as possible
- Save all receipts, medical records, and ride logs
- Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance adjuster without legal guidance
Timely documentation strengthens your case — and delays can hurt both your health and your financial recovery.
5. Insurance Companies May Try to Minimize Your Claim
Even as a rideshare driver, you may face pushback from insurers trying to:
- Shift blame to you
- Downplay your injuries
- Deny certain treatments
- Pressure you to settle early
These tactics can cost you thousands if you’re not careful. Having a legal advocate ensures that your losses — including missed income and future care — are fully accounted for.
Hurt While Driving for Uber or Lyft? Get the Help You Deserve.
Being injured on the job is stressful enough. You shouldn’t have to fight with insurance companies while trying to recover.
Call Lawyer Gigi today for a free consultation.
We’ll help you navigate the insurance process, document your claim, and fight for the compensation you need to get back on the road — safely and securely.
