Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in Chicago, but they have also created complex legal situations when accidents occur. Understanding the multiple layers of insurance coverage and liability in rideshare accidents is critical for protecting your rights.
App Off
When the driver's app is turned off, only their personal auto insurance applies. The rideshare company provides no coverage in this situation.
App On, Waiting for a Ride Request
When the app is on but the driver has not yet accepted a ride, both Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage, typically $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
Ride Accepted or Passenger in Vehicle
Once the driver accepts a ride request through the trip's completion, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage of $1 million.
- Passengers in the rideshare vehicle
- Occupants of other vehicles involved in the accident
- Pedestrians or cyclists struck by a rideshare vehicle
- The rideshare driver themselves (in some circumstances)
Challenges in Rideshare Accident Cases
- Determining which insurance policy applies based on the driver's status
- Rideshare companies classifying drivers as independent contractors to avoid liability
- Multiple insurance companies pointing fingers at each other
- Difficulty obtaining the driver's app status records
- Complex negotiations between personal and commercial insurance policies
- Call 911 and get a police report
- Take screenshots of your ride details in the app
- Photograph the scene, vehicles, and injuries
- Get the driver's information and rideshare company details
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the accident through the rideshare app
- Contact a personal injury attorney experienced in rideshare cases