Chicago Rideshare Accident Lawyer

How Insurance Coverage Works in Rideshare Accident Claims

One of the biggest complications in rideshare accident cases is determining which insurance policy applies. Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, meaning they are not employees of the company—but they still carry certain levels of insurance coverage.

While the specifics may vary, this is how re’s how rideshare insurance policies typically work:

1. When the Rideshare App is OFF. If a rideshare driver is not logged into the app, the accident is treated like any other car crash, and only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
2. When the Driver is Available but Hasn’t Accepted a Ride. If a driver is logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage, including: $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. However, the driver’s personal insurance applies first, and rideshare coverage only applies if the driver’s insurer denies the claim.
3. When the Driver is Transporting a Passenger or En Route to a Pickup. If the driver has accepted a ride request or is actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage, which may cover: injuries to passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists, property damage to other vehicles, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This higher insurance limit applies as long as the driver was actively working at the time of the crash.

Because insurance companies often try to minimize or deny claims, having an attorney who understands rideshare insurance policies is crucial to securing the full compensation you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability in rideshare accidents can involve multiple parties, including:

• Rideshare Drivers – If the driver was speeding, distracted, intoxicated, or otherwise negligent, they can be held accountable.
• Uber or Lyft – While rideshare companies attempt to avoid liability, they may be responsible for negligent hiring practices, lack of background checks, or failure to enforce safety policies.
• Other Drivers – If another motorist caused the crash, they may be held fully or partially liable.
• Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers – If a rideshare accident was caused by a defective car part, the manufacturer may be responsible under product liability laws.

Our attorneys thoroughly investigate all potential sources of liability to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation available.

Compensation in Rideshare Accident Cases

Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses – Emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
• Lost Wages & Future Earnings – Compensation for missed work and permanent disability.
• Pain & Suffering – Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
• Disability & Long-Term Care – If injuries cause permanent impairment.
• Wrongful Death Claims – Families who lose a loved one may recover funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional damages.

Call for a FREE Consultation

Rideshare accident claims are more complicated than standard car crashes, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Hilliard Law is ready to fight for you.

Call or contact us online for a FREE consultation today.