Uber & Lyft Accidents

Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare accident claims are complicated. Multiple insurance policies, corporate legal teams, and finger-pointing. I cut through the confusion and fight for maximum compensation.

Last updated: January 2026·Written by Christopher Gutierrez, Esq.

No Fee Unless You WinFree ConsultationIL & AZ LicensedHablo Español

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Your Attorney

Christopher Gutierrez

Personal Injury Attorney

Illinois & Arizona State Bars

U.S. Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit

Available 24/7 · Hablo Español

(855) 444-5227

Written by Christopher Gutierrez, Esq.

Personal Injury Attorney · Licensed in Illinois & Arizona

Rideshare has changed how we get around. But when accidents happen, the legal aftermath is messier than traditional car accidents.

Was the driver logged into the app? Were they waiting for a ride request, driving to pick someone up, or in the middle of a trip? The answer determines which insurance policy applies—and how much coverage is available.

Uber and Lyft have teams of lawyers whose job is to minimize their exposure. You need an attorney who understands how these cases work.

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Case Types

Types of Cases I Handle

Passenger Injured in Uber/Lyft

If you were a passenger and your rideshare driver caused an accident or was hit by another driver, you can make a claim against the at-fault party's insurance and/or Uber or Lyft's commercial policy.

Hit by an Uber/Lyft Driver

If a rideshare driver caused an accident that injured you (as another driver, pedestrian, or cyclist), you can make a claim against their insurance and potentially Uber or Lyft's commercial policy.

Rideshare Driver Injured

If you drive for Uber or Lyft and were injured by another driver while working, you can make a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance.

Common Causes

01Distracted drivers using the app

02Fatigued drivers working long hours

03Unfamiliar with route or area

04Rushing between pickups

05Poorly maintained vehicles

06Other negligent drivers

07Unsafe pickup/dropoff locations

08Driver inexperience

Common Injuries

Whiplash and neck injuries

Head and brain injuries

Back and spinal injuries

Broken bones

Soft tissue injuries

Concussions

Emotional trauma

Chronic pain

Illinois vs. Arizona Law

Understanding the differences in state law can significantly impact your case.

Illinois

Rideshare insurance coverage depends on the driver's app status. When logged in with a passenger (or en route to pickup), Uber/Lyft provide up to $1 million in coverage. When just logged in waiting for a request, coverage is limited to 50/100/25.

Arizona

Same tiered coverage structure applies. Full $1 million coverage during active trips. Limited coverage when waiting for requests. Personal insurance applies when the app is off.

Compensation You May Recover

If someone else caused your accident, they may be responsible for:

Medical expenses

Lost wages

Pain and suffering

Emotional distress

Future medical care

Transportation costs

Lost earning capacity

Property damage

Punitive damages (in some cases)

Your Case Process

Step 1

Determine App Status

Was the driver logged into the app? On the way to pick up? With a passenger? This is the first thing I determine because it controls which insurance applies.

Step 2

Identify All Liable Parties

I identify every potentially liable party and insurance policy to maximize your recovery options—the driver, rideshare company, and any other at-fault drivers.

Step 3

File All Necessary Claims

I file claims with the driver's personal insurance, rideshare company insurance, and any other applicable policies simultaneously.

Step 4

Negotiate or Litigate

I negotiate with all insurers and, if needed, file lawsuits to ensure you receive fair compensation from all available sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is liable in an Uber/Lyft accident?

It depends on several factors: the driver's app status, who caused the accident, and the specific circumstances. The driver, rideshare company, and other drivers may all share liability.

Does Uber/Lyft provide insurance?

Yes, but coverage varies by app status. When logged in waiting for a request, coverage is limited (50/100/25). During a trip or en route to pickup, Uber/Lyft provide up to $1 million in coverage.

What if I was a passenger in the rideshare?

Passengers typically have the strongest claims because they're clearly not at fault. You may recover from the rideshare company's $1 million policy, the other driver's insurance, or both.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?

It's difficult because drivers are classified as independent contractors. However, there are circumstances where the company may be liable. I'll analyze your specific situation.

Legal Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. Contact me for a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.

Christopher Gutierrez is licensed to practice law in Illinois and Arizona.

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About the Author

Christopher Gutierrez, Esq.

Christopher Gutierrez is a bilingual personal injury attorney licensed in both Illinois and Arizona.

Illinois State BarArizona State Bar

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