Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer convenience and accessibility, but what happens if you’re injured in an accident while using one? Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian or another driver, figuring out who’s responsible for a rideshare accident in Illinois can be confusing. The laws around liability are more complex than in a standard car crash.
At the Dinizulu Law Group, we help victims of negligence navigate the complicated insurance and legal issues that come with rideshare accidents. Here’s what you need to know about determining responsibility and protecting your rights.
Rideshare Accidents Are Different
Unlike traditional taxi services, Uber and Lyft drivers are not considered employees. They’re classified as independent contractors, which means the company often tries to distance itself from responsibility when an accident occurs.
However, both companies are required by Illinois law to carry specific insurance policies that apply under certain circumstances. The key to understanding liability is knowing what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.
Three Key Scenarios That Affect Liability
- The Rideshare Driver Was Not Logged Into the App
If the driver wasn’t logged in or available for ride requests, their personal auto insurance is the only coverage that applies. Uber and Lyft are not involved. - The Driver Was Logged In but Hadn’t Accepted a Ride
When the driver is online but hasn’t accepted a ride yet, the rideshare company provides limited third-party liability coverage:- Up to $50,000 for injury per person
- Up to $100,000 total per accident
- Up to $25,000 for property damage
- The Driver Was En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or Had One in the Vehicle
This is when the rideshare company’s $1 million insurance policy kicks in. It covers:- Injuries to passengers
- Injuries to other drivers, pedestrians or cyclists
- Property damage
This coverage is available regardless of who was at fault, which makes it a critical piece of any claim involving an active rideshare trip.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Depending on the situation, several parties could be legally responsible:
-
The Rideshare Driver: If the accident was caused by their negligence, like speeding, distracted driving or running a red light, they can be held liable personally and through the rideshare company’s policy.
-
Another Driver: If a third-party driver caused the crash, their insurance would be primarily responsible.
-
Uber or Lyft (Indirectly): While rideshare companies often deny direct liability due to the contractor relationship, their insurance still plays a major role, especially during active trips.
-
Vehicle Manufacturers or Government Entities: In rare cases, a defect in the car or poorly maintained roads might contribute to a crash, adding additional parties to a lawsuit.
What Should You Do After a Rideshare Crash?
Whether you were a passenger or another motorist, here’s what you should do after an accident involving a rideshare vehicle:
-
Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries.
-
Call the police and get an official report.
-
Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and any visible injuries.
-
Get contact info for all drivers and witnesses.
-
Document the app details — including ride status and driver info.
-
Speak with a personal injury attorney before talking to insurers.
Why Legal Help Matters
Rideshare accident claims often involve multiple insurance companies, complicated coverage rules and big legal teams. You don’t have to handle it alone. An experienced personal injury attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers and pursue full compensation for:
-
Medical expenses
-
Lost income
-
Pain and suffering
-
Future treatment and rehabilitation
At the Dinizulu Law Group, we know how to hold all responsible parties accountable and fight for the justice you deserve.
Contact Us
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Illinois, don’t wait. Contact the Dinizulu Law Group today at (312) 384-1920 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
