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Last Modified on Jul 01, 2026
If you have been in a rideshare accident, you may be wondering about your legal options. Many victims file claims against the rideshare company involved. However, Uber and Lyft accident insurance coverage periods can be confusing because the coverage limits vary depending on what stage of a ride the driver is in. For example, a driver who is logged onto their app but hasn’t accepted a ride does have different coverage compared to if they are transporting passengers.
An Overview of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare services, including Uber and Lyft, can be a great option for those looking for convenience or a reliable transportation option. In Houston, for example, many people use these services to avoid parking, drunk driving, or inconvenient public transport. Whether you are going to the George Bush Intercontinental Airport or Minute Maid Park, ridesharing can be a convenient option.
Most rideshares are safe, with 99.9% of all Uber rides ending without any safety report. However, with 11.27 billion rides in only one year, crashes do happen. Rideshare accidents happen for a number of reasons, including:
- Distracted driving and cell phone use
- Speeding
- Fatigued driving
- Driving under the influence
- Reckless driving
Rideshare accidents don’t only happen due to driver error. There are instances where a rideshare company may be liable for your damages even if the driver is not at fault. For example, if a rideshare company hires a driver without a valid driver’s license or with a history of driving under the influence. No matter what caused your Uber and Lyft accident case, speaking with a lawyer can help you understand how to claim compensation.
How Insurance Coverage Works in an Uber and Lyft Accident Case
Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies have insurance coverage for accidents. However, Uber’s insurance coverage and Lyft’s insurance coverage vary depending on what period of a rideshare service a crash occurred in.
If a rideshare driver is not online on their app and is thus not waiting for passengers or transporting passengers, then the rideshare’s insurance does not apply. If a crash happens at this stage, you can file a claim through the driver’s personal auto liability coverage.
If a rideshare driver is online and waiting to accept a ride, then rideshare companies do provide insurance. However, the insurance policy limits are lower than if the driver is on a ride. In this situation, companies such as Uber and Lyft provide:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
Once a driver accepts a ride and is en route to pick up passengers, rideshare companies provide their highest liability coverage. During this period of a rideshare service, both Uber and Lyft provide $1,000,000 for injuries and property damage. The $1,000,000 in insurance coverage continues in the final stage of a ride, where a driver is transporting passengers.
Why You Should Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer From Stevenson & Murray
Stevenson & Murray is an experienced Texas injury firm. Our team has over 80 years of legal experience handling personal injury cases, giving us a deep knowledge of Texas’s rideshare accident laws and how to file successful claims against rideshare companies
Though rideshare companies may have high coverage limits that make it seem like recovering compensation is going to be easy, their legal teams often attempt to minimize your damages, deny your claim, or otherwise reduce a payout. At Stevenson & Murray, we challenge these unfair tactics to get you the recovery you need.
We understand how difficult it can be to move forward after a crash. With our firm, you can work with a rideshare accident attorney who aggressively pursues fair compensation. In total, we have secured over $500 million of compensation for our clients.
FAQs
How Does Uber Accident Insurance Work?
Uber accident insurance works to provide compensation to crash victims who were injured while a rideshare driver was online on their app. The amount of coverage depends on the ride’s status, such as if the driver is awaiting a ride, is en route, or is driving a passenger. If you are involved in a crash, you can file a claim against Uber to claim compensation for your damages.
What Should You Do After You Get in an Accident With Lyft?
If you get in an accident with Lyft, whether as a passenger or another driver, you should move to a safe location, check for injuries, and call 911. Be sure to seek medical attention right away, either through emergency medical services or a prompt appointment.
If you are able, save evidence such as photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage, and screenshots of your Lyft ride information. Then, exchange information with the other drivers and passengers.
Can You Get Compensation If Your Uber Crashes?
Yes, you can get compensation if your Uber crashes. Compensation can cover damages such as medical bills, lost wages, loss of earning potential, emotional trauma, or property damage. Depending on the details of your crash and the status of the Uber ride, you may be able to file a claim for compensation against Uber, or another party such as the Uber driver or a third-party driver.
Can You Claim Compensation If Other Passengers Were Injured in the Crash?
Yes, even if other passengers are injured in the same crash, you are still able to claim compensation. Your right to compensation does not depend on other people’s damages. However, if multiple people are filing a claim, it may mean that the rideshare’s insurance coverage must be split amongst victims. If you hire a rideshare accident lawyer, they can advocate for a fair amount of compensation or explore options for claims against other involved parties.
Learn How a Rideshare Accident Attorney From Stevenson & Murray Can Help
Rideshare accidents are extremely traumatic, leaving you with physical, emotional, and financial damages. Fortunately, Texas’s rideshare laws protect your ability to hold negligent drivers and rideshare companies accountable for your losses. Contact Stevenson & Murray to speak with a lawyer about how Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy applies to your case and what to do moving forward.
