What if I Was Injured in an Accident While Driving for Uber or Lyft?

If you’re a rideshare driver, understanding the coverage available to you and the proper steps to take after an accident can significantly impact your recovery options in California. You do have options for coverage if you’re injured in an accident while driving for Uber or Lyft.

Your status as both a driver and a worker complicates the insurance claims process and could raise questions about things like workers’ compensation. Here’s what you need to know from our Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyers.

Understanding Your Insurance Coverage as a Rideshare Driver

As a rideshare driver in California, your insurance coverage depends on your status within the rideshare app at the time of the accident. Most rideshare companies are required to carry coverage for their drivers and passengers. 

There is a tiered system that determines which level of insurance applies to your injuries. The coverage phases include:

• Period 0 (App off): Your personal auto insurance applies exclusively
• Period 1 (App on, waiting for match): Limited liability coverage plus contingent collision/comprehensive if you carry these coverages on your personal policy
• Period 2 (En route to pickup): $1 million liability plus contingent collision/comprehensive
• Period 3 (Passenger in vehicle): $1 million liability plus contingent collision/comprehensive

This structure creates potential coverage gaps, particularly for your own injuries as the driver. Most rideshare company policies focus primarily on liability coverage for passengers and third parties rather than on the driver’s own injuries.

Does Workers’ Compensation Cover You?

One of the most significant questions for injured rideshare drivers concerns workers’ compensation eligibility. In California, this question has evolved with changing legislation regarding gig workers.

Under California law, most rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors rather than employees. This classification generally means:

• Traditional workers’ compensation coverage doesn’t apply
• Alternative benefits provided by rideshare companies may be available
• You must rely primarily on insurance policies rather than workers’ compensation
• Your recovery options differ from those available to traditional employees

However, legal challenges to this classification continue, and the landscape is still evolving. We stay current on these legal developments to provide the most accurate guidance to rideshare drivers.

Your Personal Auto Insurance Policy Considerations

Most personal auto insurance policies exclude coverage when the vehicle is used for commercial purposes unless you purchase additional coverage. This exclusion can create serious problems if you’re injured in an accident while driving for Uber or Lyft.

Many insurers now offer rideshare endorsements that provide coverage. These endorsements typically increase your premium but provide essential protection. If you don’t have a rideshare endorsement, you may face:

• Denial of claims related to rideshare activities
• Potential policy cancellation if the insurer discovers undisclosed rideshare work
• Coverage gaps between personal and rideshare company policies
• Out-of-pocket expenses for medical care and vehicle repairs

We recommend reviewing your personal auto policy and considering a rideshare endorsement if you work for Uber, Lyft, or similar services. It’s the surest way to get protection for yourself if you are injured in an accident while driving for a rideshare company.

When the Other Driver Is at Fault

If another driver caused your accident while you were working for a rideshare company, you have the right to pursue a third-party liability claim against that driver. This approach often provides the most comprehensive compensation.

A third-party claim allows you to seek:

• Complete coverage for medical expenses
• Full compensation for lost wages
• Pain and suffering damages not available through no-fault insurance
• Property damage recovery
• Future medical and income losses

The at-fault driver’s insurance company is primarily responsible in these situations, though your status as a rideshare driver may complicate negotiations. There may also be situations where your rideshare company will help pay for some of your damages if you’re not the at-fault driver.

Documenting Your Rideshare Status if You Were Injured While Driving for Uber or Lyft

Rideshare companies have specific reporting procedures for driver accidents. Following these procedures is essential for preserving your claim rights so you can get compensation for your injuries. The typical reporting process includes:

• In-app accident reporting features
• Documentation uploads for police reports and photos
• Statements about the accident circumstances
• Contact information for involved parties
• Medical treatment information

Completing these reports promptly and accurately helps initiate the claims process with the appropriate insurance coverage. You should become familiar with the reporting process for your rideshare company before you become injured so you’ll know what to do if it ever happens.

How J&Y Law Can Help Injured Rideshare Drivers

If you were injured in an accident while driving for Uber or Lyft, you face a complex web of insurance policies, coverage limitations, and legal questions. Our experienced personal injury attorneys provide specialized support for drivers in your situation.

Contact J&Y Law today for a free consultation about your case. Our team understands the unique challenges facing injured rideshare drivers and can help you pursue maximum compensation while you focus on your recovery.