Who Is Responsible for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Responsibility for Uber and Lyft accidents often depends on the specific circumstances, but liability generally falls on the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, or other involved parties. 

These types of incidents can quickly become complicated, and understanding how liability works is crucial if you’ve been injured in one of these accidents. Whether you were a passenger, a pedestrian, or in another vehicle, Long Island rideshare accident lawyers can provide the legal clarity and guidance you need to protect your rights and pursue compensation.

Understanding Liability in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents aren’t like traditional two-car crashes. When an Uber or Lyft driver is involved, there’s an added layer of complexity due to the rideshare company’s role and the way their insurance policies work. Liability depends on three major factors. To navigate these complexities, speak with the best car accident lawyer near me who understands how to hold all responsible parties accountable and secure fair compensation.

1. Who caused the accident?
2. What was the Uber or Lyft driver doing at the time of the crash?
3. What kind of insurance coverage was in place?

Let’s break that down further.

If the Uber or Lyft Driver Was at Fault

If the rideshare driver caused the accident—whether you were a passenger in their vehicle, a pedestrian, or another driver—they (and potentially Uber or Lyft’s liability insurance) could be responsible for your injuries.

However, the extent of insurance coverage depends heavily on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. Rideshare companies categorize driver activity into three distinct periods:

• Period 0: The driver is not logged into the app.
  In this case, the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. Uber and Lyft offer no coverage during this time because the driver isn’t technically “working.”
• Period 1: The driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride request.
  Lyft and Uber’s liability insurance kicks in at this phase:
  • Up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury
  • $100,000 per accident
  • $25,000 for property damage
• Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger.
• Period 3: The passenger is in the car.
  For both Periods 2 and 3, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage. This means if you’re injured while riding in an Uber or Lyft, or if a rideshare driver with a passenger causes your accident, this higher level of coverage is typically available.

If Another Driver Was at Fault

If another vehicle struck your Uber or Lyft, that driver’s insurance would typically be the primary source of compensation. However, complications can arise if the at-fault driver:

• Has limited insurance coverage
• Is uninsured
• Flees the scene (a hit-and-run)

In those cases, Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) may kick in, especially if you were a passenger in the rideshare vehicle. This can help fill the gap and ensure you’re not left without support. Understanding your legal options is essential to pursuing the full compensation you may be entitled to after a rideshare accident.

What Happens If You’re a Rideshare Passenger?

If you were injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you’re rarely considered at fault. That means you’re generally entitled to seek compensation from whichever party is responsible, whether it’s the rideshare driver, another driver, or both.

Immediately after the crash, your no-fault (PIP) insurance coverage will handle your basic medical bills and lost income, regardless of fault. This is due to New York’s no-fault insurance law, which requires every driver to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.  If you were a passenger in a vehicle, that vehicle’s no-fault coverage will apply.

But what if your injuries are serious?

New York’s Serious Injury Threshold

To file a lawsuit against the at-fault party in New York, you must meet what’s known as the serious injury threshold under New York Insurance Law. That includes injuries such as:

• Bone fractures
• Significant disfigurement
• Dismemberment
• Permanent limitation of a body organ or limb
• Loss of a fetus
• Significant limitation of a body function or system
• A medically determined injury that prevents you from performing your usual daily activities for at least 90 out of the first 180 days following the accident

If your injuries meet this threshold, you may be entitled to economic damages (like medical expenses and lost earnings) and non-economic damages (like pain and suffering) through a personal injury lawsuit.

What About Uber and Lyft Drivers Themselves?

Drivers for Uber and Lyft often find themselves in a tricky position. If you were driving for a rideshare service and were hit by another driver, your ability to recover compensation will depend on:

• Whether you were logged into the app
• Whether you had a passenger
• Whether the other driver has adequate insurance

Rideshare drivers may have access to Uber or Lyft’s insurance, including UM/UIM benefits, but should also be aware that coverage depends on their status at the time of the accident.

It’s also worth pointing out that Uber and Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees. This means they are generally not eligible for workers’ compensation if injured on the job.

Liability Can Also Be Shared

In some cases, more than one party may be liable. For example:

• A distracted rideshare driver causes a crash while speeding to pick up a rider.
• Another driver runs a red light and collides with the Uber.
• A pedestrian walks into the street unexpectedly, and both drivers react too slowly.

Under New York’s comparative negligence rule, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible. Liability insurance will play a key role in determining how much compensation you can receive and which party’s coverage applies based on the specifics of the rideshare accident.

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Rideshare Accident

One of the most frustrating parts of any accident is dealing with insurance companies. When rideshare companies are involved, you’re often up against well-funded corporate insurers trained to minimize payouts.

Uber and Lyft have billion-dollar valuations, but that doesn’t mean they’ll rush to pay fair compensation after an accident. In fact, their insurance partners may:

• Deny coverage by arguing the driver wasn’t logged into the app
• Delay the claims process to pressure you into accepting a low settlement
• Shift the blame onto another party to avoid paying
• Contest the severity of your injuries

That’s why it’s critical to fully understand which party (or parties) may be held liable and which insurance policies may apply. You may be eligible to recover compensation from:

• The rideshare driver’s personal insurance
• Uber or Lyft’s corporate insurance
• Another driver’s insurance
• Your own no-fault (PIP) coverage
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) benefits

Each of these potential sources of compensation has different requirements, coverage limits, and timelines. Handling them on your own can be challenging, especially if you’re also dealing with pain, disability, or financial stress after the accident. Do insurance companies pay fairly in these situations? Often, they try to minimise payouts, which is why having legal support is essential to protect your claim.

Lyft and Uber Accidents Involving Pedestrians and Cyclists

Not every rideshare crash involves another car. Pedestrians and bicyclists are especially vulnerable when drivers are distracted, speeding, or making illegal turns. Unfortunately, rideshare drivers often use GPS, accepting ride requests, or scanning the curb for passengers, and they may be more prone to distraction than the average driver.

If you were hit by a rideshare vehicle while walking or biking, you still have legal options. You may be able to file a claim against:

• The driver’s personal insurance
• Uber or Lyft’s corporate insurance (depending on app status)
• Your own no-fault insurance, if applicable

As with any accident involving serious injuries, you must prove fault and meet New York’s serious injury threshold to pursue compensation beyond basic economic damages. While many assume pedestrians always have the right of way, this isn’t absolute—liability depends on the specific facts of the case.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles can lead to a range of serious injuries, many of which require long-term treatment and can permanently alter your life. Some common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord damage
• Broken bones
• Internal bleeding
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Lacerations and facial injuries from shattered glass
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

These injuries can leave you unable to work, care for your family, or even carry out simple tasks without pain. While insurance companies may downplay the impact of your injuries, you should be fairly compensated, not just for medical bills, but for how your life has been affected. Who Should I Contact if you’re struggling after a rideshare accident? Reach out to an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

What If the At-Fault Driver Was an Out-of-State Uber/Lyft Driver?

Long Island sees a lot of out-of-state drivers, especially during the summer months and holiday weekends. If you were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver with an out-of-state license plate, you can still pursue compensation, but the legal process may involve different state laws and insurance policies.

Fortunately, Uber and Lyft’s corporate insurance coverage follows the driver across state lines, which means the $1 million policy may still apply. However, additional challenges, such as tracking down insurance information or serving legal documents, make it even more important to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer who understands the complexities of multi-jurisdictional rideshare cases.

Steps You Should Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident

If you’ve been in a crash involving a Lyft or Uber driver, the steps you take afterward can significantly impact your claim. Here’s a guide to help you protect your rights and work toward fair compensation:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
   Even if you feel fine initially, adrenaline can mask injury symptoms. Get a medical evaluation right away, as this creates essential documentation linking your injuries to the accident.
2. Call the Police and File a Report
   A police report serves as invaluable evidence. Be sure to include as many details as possible, including the rideshare driver’s information, the status of the app, and any witness accounts.
3. Document the Scene
   Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Note relevant details like traffic signs and signals.
4. Gather Information
   Collect contact details for the rideshare driver, other involved drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Also, record the rideshare driver’s status (logged in, en route, or transporting a passenger), as this will influence insurance coverage.
5. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft
   Use the app to notify the rideshare company about the accident. You’ll also need to provide a statement to their insurance adjusters at some point, but it’s best to consult a Long Island rideshare accident lawyers before doing so.
6. Speak with an Attorney
   Rideshare accident cases can involve multiple parties, conflicting accounts, and stringent timelines. Consulting a personal injury attorney early ensures that your case is handled effectively and your interests are protected.
7. Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters Alone
   Insurance companies, including those working with Uber and Lyft, might try to limit their liability by shifting blame or downplaying your injuries. It’s best to have legal guidance during these discussions.

How Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP Can Help

Dealing with an Uber or Lyft accident claim can feel like an uphill battle. Between medical appointments, mounting bills, and complex insurance claims, it’s easy to become stressed. That’s where we come in.

At Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP, we understand the toll accidents take on your life. With decades of combined experience in personal injury law, we have the resources, knowledge, and compassion to guide you through this challenging time. Whether it involves gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, or taking your case to court, we’re ready to fight for the compensation you need.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident on Long Island or anywhere in New York, reach out to us at (631) 451-7900 or through our online form for a free consultation. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to help.