A crash involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle raises a question ordinary car accidents do not: which insurance applies? In California, the answer depends largely on what the rideshare driver was doing when the crash happened.
The Coverage Periods
California law requires rideshare companies (called transportation network companies) to carry insurance that changes with the driver’s status:
- App off: only the driver’s personal auto policy applies, and many personal policies exclude commercial driving.
- App on, waiting for a ride request: required liability coverage of at least $50,000 per person, $100,000 per incident for bodily injury, and $30,000 for property damage, plus at least $200,000 in excess coverage.
- Ride accepted, through the end of the trip: at least $1 million in primary liability coverage.
Who Can Make a Claim
Passengers, occupants of other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists injured by a rideshare driver may all have claims. If another driver caused the crash, that driver’s insurance is typically the first source, and rideshare coverage may also come into play.
Why These Claims Get Complicated
Rideshare companies and their insurers often dispute the driver’s status at the moment of the crash, because the coverage amounts are so different. App data showing when the driver logged in, accepted the ride, and dropped off the passenger can decide which policy applies. That data should be requested early.
What to Do
- Screenshot your trip details and receipt in the app
- Report the crash through the app and to police
- Get medical care and keep records
- Speak with an attorney before giving statements to any insurer
The JVB Law Firm handles Uber and Lyft accident claims throughout California. Call for a free consultation.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different; speak with a lawyer about your situation.