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If you’ve been injured by a rideshare driver—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or another motorist—you may be wondering what to do next. The aftermath of an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver can feel confusing, but understanding your legal options is crucial for protecting your rights and getting the compensation you deserve. At KP Injury Law, we help clients navigate the unique challenges that come with rideshare accidents in Tennessee, Georgia, and beyond.

Who Can Be Injured by a Rideshare Driver?

Accidents involving rideshare vehicles can impact anyone sharing the road—not just passengers in the car. Here are the most common scenarios:

Passengers in the Rideshare Vehicle

If you were a passenger in an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare car at the time of the accident, you are entitled to pursue compensation for your injuries—regardless of which driver was at fault. Both the rideshare company’s insurance policy and the driver’s personal policy may be involved, depending on the circumstances.

Pedestrians and Cyclists

Pedestrians and bicyclists are especially vulnerable in city environments where rideshare vehicles frequently pick up and drop off passengers. If you are struck by a rideshare driver while walking or cycling, you may have a claim against the driver and, in some cases, the rideshare company’s insurance policy.

Occupants of Other Vehicles

If you were driving or riding in another vehicle when a rideshare driver caused an accident, you have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance policy. The unique status of rideshare vehicles may mean additional coverage is available if the rideshare driver was actively working at the time of the crash.

Who Is Liable in Rideshare Accidents?

Liability in rideshare accidents depends on a variety of factors, including who was at fault and what the rideshare driver was doing at the time of the crash. Unlike traditional accidents, rideshare cases often involve multiple insurance policies and potentially the rideshare company itself.

• If the rideshare driver was at fault and “on the app” (actively accepting rides or carrying a passenger): Both the driver’s personal insurance and the rideshare company’s commercial insurance may be responsible for covering damages.
• If the driver was off-duty or not using the app: Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
• If another driver was at fault: That driver’s insurance will typically be the primary source of recovery, but rideshare policies may provide additional coverage if the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured.

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are required by law to carry substantial commercial insurance policies, but when and how they apply can be complex. It’s vital to consult an attorney experienced in rideshare accident claims to ensure all sources of compensation are explored.

How Insurance Coverage Works in Rideshare Crashes

Insurance coverage in rideshare accidents depends on the driver’s status at the time of the incident. Here’s how it typically breaks down:

• App Off: The rideshare driver’s personal auto insurance is the only policy in effect.
• App On, No Passenger: Limited coverage from Uber/Lyft may be available for third-party injuries (usually up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage).
• App On, Passenger in Car or En Route: The full $1 million commercial liability policy applies for both passengers and other injured parties, including pedestrians and cyclists.

If you’re unsure what insurance coverage applies in your case, an attorney can help determine whether you can file a claim against the rideshare company, the driver’s insurer, or both.

Steps to Take If You Are Injured by a Rideshare Driver

Taking the right steps after an accident involving a rideshare vehicle will protect your health and your claim:

• Call 911 and make sure everyone is safe. Get a police report, even for minor accidents.
• Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries appear hours or days later.
• Collect as much information as possible: names, contact details, insurance information, license plate numbers, and rideshare trip details.
• Take photos of the vehicles, accident scene, injuries, and any rideshare signage or logos.
• Get contact information for all witnesses, including other passengers and bystanders.
• Report the accident to Uber, Lyft, or the appropriate rideshare company through their app or website.
• Contact a personal injury attorney with experience in rideshare cases before speaking with any insurance adjuster or accepting a settlement offer.

Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and makes your claim stronger—especially if rideshare companies attempt to limit their liability.

Common Challenges in Rideshare Accident Cases

Rideshare accident cases present several unique challenges:

• Multiple insurance companies may dispute who is responsible for paying damages.
• The rideshare company may argue that the driver was “off the clock” at the time of the accident.
• Uninsured or underinsured drivers can complicate recovery, but rideshare companies’ policies often provide backup coverage.
• Proving liability can require rideshare app data, GPS logs, or ride records—information not always easily accessible without legal help.

Having an attorney on your side helps overcome these challenges and ensures your rights are protected throughout the process.

How KP Injury Law Can Help

At KP Injury Law, our attorneys are skilled in navigating the complex insurance and liability issues involved in rideshare accidents. We work to:

• Investigate your accident and gather all available evidence, including rideshare records
• Identify all possible sources of compensation, including the driver’s insurance and the rideshare company’s policy
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies and legal teams
• Calculate your damages accurately—including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses
• Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached

Learn more about our experience with auto accident claims on our Car Accident Lawyer page, or reach out for a free consultation.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you have been injured by a rideshare driver—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or driver—KP Injury Law is here to help. Call (615) 806-6561 or contact us online to discuss your case with a dedicated personal injury attorney. There is no fee unless we win compensation for you.

For more information on road safety and accident prevention, visit the NHTSA’s Road Safety resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your case, contact KP Injury Law directly.