Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) Accidents: Who’s Responsible & What You Should Know

Nov 13 2025 14:00

When a Rideshare Trip Takes a Wrong Turn

 

Using Uber or Lyft has become second nature for commuters and travelers across New York and New Jersey. But when a rideshare ride ends in an accident, things get complicated fast. Who’s responsible — the driver, the rideshare company, or another motorist? And what kind of insurance coverage applies?

 

At Parra Klein, LLP, we help both passengers and rideshare drivers navigate the complex legal landscape of rideshare accidents in NY and NJ. Here’s what you should know if you’re injured during an Uber or Lyft ride.

Understanding Rideshare Accident Liability

 

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft operate differently from taxis or traditional car services. Their drivers are independent contractors, not employees — and that distinction matters when it comes to liability.

 

Responsibility for an accident depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:

 

1. The Driver Wasn’t Logged Into the App

If the Uber or Lyft app was off, the driver’s personal auto insurance applies — not Uber’s or Lyft’s policies.

2. The Driver Was Logged In but Waiting for a Ride Request

When the driver is online but has no passenger yet, the rideshare company provides limited coverage:

  • Up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury

  • Up to $100,000 per accident total

  • Up to $25,000 for property damage

3. The Driver Was On a Trip or Carrying a Passenger

 

This is when Uber and Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy kicks in.


That coverage applies to both drivers and passengers, regardless of who caused the accident.

What To Do After a Rideshare Accident

 

If you’re injured as a rideshare passenger, driver, or another motorist, your actions right after the crash can make or break your claim.

  1. Call 911 and ensure everyone is safe.

  2. Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and any visible injuries.

  3. Get the rideshare driver’s information(name, license, plate number, and app screenshot showing the trip).

  4. Report the crash to Uber or Lyft through the app.

  5. Seek medical attention right away — even for minor pain.

  6. Contact a rideshare accident lawyer familiar with New York and New Jersey laws before speaking to insurers.

At Parra Klein, we handle communication with Uber, Lyft, and insurance companies so you can focus on recovery.

How Parra Klein Fights for Rideshare Victims

 

Our attorneys understand that rideshare injury cases involve multiple layers of insurance, app data, and corporate policies. We take a comprehensive approach to building your case by:

  • Obtaining digital trip records from Uber/Lyft to prove status and coverage

  • Reviewing police reports and witness statements

  • Working with accident reconstruction experts

  • Handling all negotiations with insurers and rideshare company attorneys

  • Pursuing maximum compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering

Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a rideshare driver, we make sure your rights are protected under the correct state laws.

Key Differences Between New York and New Jersey Rideshare Laws

 

Although Uber and Lyft operate in both states, the legal systems differ:

  • New York: The no-fault insurance system covers initial medical bills regardless of fault, but serious injury claims can go beyond no-fault limits.

  • New Jersey: Rideshare companies must provide primary insurance during active rides, but coverage may depend on your policy election(limitation on lawsuit vs. no limitation).

  • Statute of Limitations: You have three years in NY and two years in NJ to file a lawsuit.

Having lawyers licensed in both states — like the Parra Klein legal team — ensures your case is handled correctly, wherever your accident happened.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

 

Rideshare collisions can cause a wide range of injuries, including:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries

  • Concussions and traumatic brain injuries

  • Fractures and dislocations

  • Back and spinal cord injuries

  • Emotional trauma and PTSD

Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get evaluated immediately and document your medical treatment — this strengthens your case.

Why Choose Parra Klein

 

At Parra Klein, LLP, our attorneys have decades of combined experience representing injured clients across New York and New Jersey. We know how to take on large insurance companies and corporate defense teams — and we don’t get paid unless you win.

We handle every step of your claim, from filing to settlement or trial, with personal attention and relentless advocacy.

Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident? Contact Parra Klein Today

 

If you were hurt while using a rideshare service — as a passenger, driver, or pedestrian — you deserve justice and fair compensation.