Who is responsible, when coverage applies, what to collect at the scene, and why these cases are different
Rideshare crashes can feel confusing even when the accident itself is straightforward. You may be dealing with multiple drivers, multiple insurance companies, and a platform like Uber or Lyft that is not the same as a taxi company. The good news is you can protect yourself quickly if you understand how responsibility and coverage usually work.
This guide explains the basics in plain language so you know what to do next.
Why rideshare cases are different
In a normal car accident, there is usually one at fault driver and one insurance policy to deal with. In a rideshare accident, there can be several layers.
You might be
-A passenger in an Uber or Lyft
-A driver in another car hit by a rideshare driver
-A pedestrian or cyclist struck by a rideshare vehicle
-The rideshare driver
Because the rideshare driver is an independent contractor using an app, coverage can depend on what the driver was doing in the app at the exact time of the crash. That detail changes which insurance policy applies and how much coverage may be available.
Who can be responsible in a rideshare accident
Responsibility depends on how the crash happened, not just who was in a rideshare.
Common responsible parties include
-The rideshare driver
-Another driver on the road
-Multiple drivers sharing fault
-In rare cases, a vehicle owner or employer if the at fault driver was working
-A government entity or property owner if road defects or hazards contributed
-A manufacturer if a defect played a role
California follows comparative fault, which means more than one party can share responsibility. That matters because it affects how claims are negotiated and how compensation is calculated.
When rideshare insurance coverage applies
Rideshare coverage typically depends on the driver’s app status. This is one of the biggest reasons these cases require careful handling.
Here are the common phases
Phase 0
Driver is off the app
Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies
Phase 1
App is on, but the driver has not accepted a ride request
Coverage may apply, but it is usually more limited than when a trip is active
Phase 2
Driver has accepted a ride and is on the way to pick up a passenger
Higher coverage is typically available through the rideshare company’s policy
Phase 3
Passenger is in the vehicle and the trip is in progress
Highest coverage typically applies through the rideshare company’s policy
Important note
Insurance companies may dispute which phase the driver was in. That is why evidence like screenshots, trip details, and app records can be so important.
What coverage might pay for
Depending on fault and what policies apply, a rideshare claim may involve compensation for
Medical bills and future treatment
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Rehab and therapy costs
Out of pocket expenses related to the injury
If you are a passenger, you may have access to multiple layers of coverage, including the rideshare policy and potentially other policies, depending on the facts.
What to collect at the scene
If you are physically able, the goal is to document the crash before details disappear.
1. Driver and vehicle information
Rideshare driver’s name and phone number
Driver license
Insurance information
License plate and vehicle make and model
2. Rideshare trip details
Screenshot the trip screen showing
Driver name and profile
Ride status
Pickup and drop off details
Time and date
Trip ID or ride confirmation number
If you are not the person who ordered the ride, ask for that information from the account holder.
3. Photos and videos
Vehicle damage from multiple angles
The location and road conditions
Traffic signals and signs
Skid marks or debris
Your visible injuries
4. Witness information
Names and phone numbers
A brief statement of what they saw if they are willing
5. Medical documentation
Even if pain seems mild, get evaluated as soon as you can. Many rideshare injuries show up later, especially neck and back injuries and concussions.
What not to do after a rideshare crash
Avoid these common mistakes that can hurt your claim.
Do not give a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster without guidance
Do not accept a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries
Do not post about the accident or your injuries on social media
Do not assume Uber or Lyft will automatically cover everything
Do not delay medical care, since delays are often used to argue the injury was not serious
Why timing matters in rideshare cases
Rideshare companies and insurers move fast. Evidence can be lost quickly, including
App activity records
Driver logs
Camera footage from nearby businesses
Vehicle data and repair records
The sooner you get guidance, the easier it is to preserve what matters and avoid insurance pressure.
When to call a rideshare accident attorney
You should get a case evaluation as soon as possible if
You were a passenger and you are injured
The rideshare driver or another driver is disputing fault
You are being pressured to settle quickly
You missed work or need ongoing treatment
There are multiple vehicles or injuries involved
BNG Legal Group offers free consultations and free case evaluations, with no upfront costs. If you were injured in a rideshare accident, call to find out what options you have and what coverage may apply based on the facts of your case.
Legal disclaimer: This post is for general information only and is not legal advice. Every case is different and outcomes depend on the facts and applicable law.