Injured in a Rideshare Accident? What Uber and Lyft Passengers Should Know

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are convenient — but when accidents happen, figuring out who’s responsible and how to get compensated can be confusing. If you were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle during a crash, you have rights — and you may be entitled to significant compensation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we help injured rideshare passengers navigate complex claims and insurance policies. Here’s what you need to know.

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability depends on who caused the crash and what the driver was doing at the time:

• If the rideshare driver was at fault: You may file a claim against Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance (not just the driver’s personal policy).
• If another driver was at fault: You can file a claim against that driver’s insurance — and, if they are uninsured or underinsured, possibly against the rideshare company’s UM/UIM coverage.

How Rideshare Insurance Works in Florida

Uber and Lyft provide different levels of coverage based on the driver’s status in the app:

1. App Off (driver not logged in)
   • No coverage from Uber/Lyft
   • Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies
2. App On, Waiting for a Ride Request
   • Limited coverage:
     • $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
     • $25,000 for property damage
3. En Route to Pickup or During a Trip
   • Full commercial coverage applies:
     • $1 million in liability
     • $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
     • Contingent comprehensive and collision (with deductible)

If you’re a passenger during a trip, the $1 million policy typically applies.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Rideshare Accident

✅ Seek medical attention immediately
✅ Report the accident through the rideshare app
✅ Get names, contact info, and insurance details for all drivers involved
✅ Document the scene with photos and witness statements
✅ Contact an attorney before speaking to any insurance company

Even though Uber and Lyft provide insurance, their insurers often delay, deny, or undervalue claims — especially if multiple parties are involved.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages and future earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability
• Property damage (if applicable)

Your Rights as a Rideshare Passenger Matter

Rideshare companies have big legal teams and big insurance policies — but they don’t hand out checks easily. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we advocate for injured passengers and pursue every available source of compensation.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your rights after a rideshare accident.