Rideshare accident claims involve crashes with an Uber, Lyft or other app-based driver, and which insurance pays depends on the driver's app status at the moment of impact. Value turns on injuries, fault and policy limits. As of the NAIC's December 2025 update, nearly all states and D.C. had rideshare insurance laws.
Updates on Rideshare Accident Claims
Rideshare sexual assault lawsuit 2026 guide covering Uber MDL 3084 and Lyft MDL 3171 updates, the bellwether verdicts so far, eligibility and step-by-step filing instructions. Free review: 855-664-8713.
Key facts (as of October 2026)
- The NAIC splits rideshare driving into three periods: app on and waiting; request accepted, no passenger; passenger aboard (NAIC, December 2025).
- It is not uncommon for personal auto policies to exclude driving for pay (NAIC).
- California requires $1 million in primary commercial coverage from ride acceptance until the passenger exits (CPUC).
- 15.4 percent of U.S. motorists were uninsured in 2023 (NAIC).
Which policy applies
| Driver's app status | Usual coverage | California minimum |
|---|---|---|
| App off | Driver's personal auto policy | Personal policy limits |
| App on, waiting | Contingent rideshare coverage | $50,000 per person, $100,000 per incident, $30,000 property, plus $200,000 excess |
| Ride accepted or passenger aboard | Company commercial policy | $1,000,000 primary |
If another driver caused the crash, that driver's insurer is usually first in line, and other states' limits differ from California's. Sexual assault by a rideshare driver is a separate claim type, covered in the rideshare sexual assault lawsuit guide.
Evidence to keep
- Screenshots of the trip, driver, vehicle and receipt.
- The in-app incident report and claim number.
- The crash report, photos, witnesses and medical records.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays if my Uber or Lyft driver caused the crash?
If a trip was accepted or under way, the rideshare company's commercial policy generally applies; California requires $1 million of primary coverage from acceptance until the passenger exits, and other states set their own limits. Passengers may also claim against another driver who shared fault, through that driver's insurer.
What if the driver was waiting for a ride request?
During this first period, state laws typically require lower contingent limits, and the driver's personal policy may exclude driving for pay. In California the minimum is $50,000 per person and $100,000 per incident for injuries and $30,000 for property damage, plus $200,000 of excess coverage.
How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim?
Rideshare crash claims usually follow the state's ordinary personal injury deadline, which varies by state. Insurers also expect prompt notice, so reporting the crash in the app, keeping the claim number and getting the police report early helps protect the claim.
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