Passenger Injuries in Uber and Lyft Accidents: Who’s Liable?

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer convenience, especially for getting around cities like Philadelphia or traveling along busy corridors such as I-76 or Broad Street. But what happens when an Uber or Lyft ride ends in a crash? If you're a passenger injured in a rideshare accident, you may be left wondering who pays for your medical bills and whether you have any legal recourse.

The good news is that rideshare passenger rights are protected under Pennsylvania law, but determining liability can be complex. So, after reading this useful piece of information and advice, don't wait to talk to a Pennsylvania rideshare accident lawyer from Edelstein Martin & Nelson. 

Rideshare Crashes: How Liability Works

Unlike traditional car accidents, where liability usually falls on one of the drivers, a rideshare accident often involves multiple parties and several insurance policies. As a passenger, you’re rarely at fault, but that doesn’t mean your case is straightforward.

If you suffer an Uber passenger injury in Pennsylvania, several factors influence who may be liable for your damages, including:

• Who caused the crash: Was your Uber or Lyft driver responsible, or was another vehicle at fault?
• Rideshare status: Was the driver actively transporting you, waiting for a ride request, or logged off the app?
• Severity of your injuries: Long-term medical treatment may require a more extensive claims process.

Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the amount and applicability depend on the circumstances at the time of the crash.

Insurance Coverage in Pennsylvania Rideshare Accidents

Both Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability coverage when a ride is in progress. This means if you’re injured as a paying passenger, you’re usually covered by this policy regardless of who caused the crash.

Rideshare insurance generally breaks down into three periods:

• Offline or app off: The driver’s personal insurance applies.
• App on, no ride accepted: Limited coverage from the rideshare company may apply.
• Ride accepted or passenger in vehicle: $1 million in liability coverage from Uber or Lyft is in effect.

If your Lyft crash lawsuit involves another driver who caused the accident, their insurance policy will be the primary source of compensation. If that driver is uninsured or underinsured, Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply.

Common Passenger Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

As a rideshare passenger, you’re vulnerable to injury regardless of where you’re seated in the vehicle. Rear-end crashes on Roosevelt Boulevard or side-impact collisions near the University of Pennsylvania can leave passengers with serious injuries.

Some common injuries include:

• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries: Often caused by sudden stops or rear-end impacts.
• Head trauma or concussions: Especially in side-impact or rollover crashes.
• Fractures or broken bones: Common in high-speed accidents on highways like I-95 or Route 1.
• Emotional trauma: Post-accident anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder is also a compensable injury.

Medical care can be expensive, and it’s not always clear who is responsible for paying. That’s why consulting a Pennsylvania rideshare accident lawyer is often the best way to protect your rights and recover what you’re owed.

What to Do If You’re a Passenger Injured in a Rideshare Crash

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, your first priority should be your health. But taking a few important steps can also strengthen your legal claim.

After the crash, be sure to:

• Call 911 and report the accident: This creates an official record and helps document the crash.
• Take photos: Capture damage, injuries, and the scene if possible.
• Collect driver information: From both your rideshare driver and any other involved parties.
• Report the crash to the rideshare app: Both Uber and Lyft have in-app crash reporting features.

Don’t assume the insurance company will automatically pay what you deserve. They often minimize injuries or delay payments, especially in complex multi-party claims.

Call a Pennsylvania Rideshare Accident Lawyer from Edelstein Martin & Nelson

If you’ve suffered an Uber passenger injury in Pennsylvania or need help filing a Lyft crash lawsuit, you don’t have to face it alone. Our qualified Pennsylvania rideshare accident lawyer can help you understand your rideshare passenger rights, navigate insurance complications, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Edelstein, Martin, and Nelson at (215) 731-9900 today for a free consultation.