Rideshare drivers injured while working for Uber, Lyft, or similar platforms face complex insurance situations. Your independent contractor status affects your options, but insurance coverage is available for injuries caused by other drivers' negligence.
Insurance Coverage for Injured Drivers
When a rideshare driver is injured by another motorist's negligence, several insurance sources may apply:
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: During Periods 2 and 3 (en route to pickup and during rides), Uber and Lyft provide UM/UIM coverage up to $1 million. This coverage pays for your injuries if the at-fault driver has no insurance or inadequate coverage.
At-Fault Driver's Insurance: You can file a third-party claim against the negligent driver's liability insurance for your injuries and vehicle damage.
Your Personal Insurance: Depending on your policy, personal UM/UIM coverage, medical payments coverage, or collision coverage may apply, though many personal policies exclude rideshare activity.
Workers' Compensation Issues
Because rideshare companies classify drivers as independent contractors, traditional workers' compensation benefits are not available for injuries suffered while driving. This classification has been challenged in some states, but in most jurisdictions, drivers cannot access workers' comp for on-the-job injuries.
This makes third-party claims against at-fault drivers particularly important, as they may be your primary source of injury compensation.
Period 1 Coverage Gaps
When the app is on but you haven't accepted a ride, coverage is limited:
Uber and Lyft provide only contingent liability coverage during this period—there's no UM/UIM coverage to protect you if injured by an uninsured driver.
Your personal insurance may deny claims if it excludes commercial activity, leaving significant coverage gaps.
Rideshare-specific insurance endorsements available from some carriers can fill these gaps by providing coverage during all periods of rideshare activity.
Claims Against the Rideshare Company
In limited circumstances, drivers may have claims against Uber or Lyft directly:
Defective app features that contributed to accidents by distracting drivers or providing unsafe directions.
Failure to provide safety equipment or information about known hazards.
Misrepresentation about insurance coverage that led drivers to believe they had protection they didn't actually have.
These claims face significant obstacles, including arbitration requirements in driver agreements and the independent contractor defense.
Protecting Yourself as a Driver
Review your personal auto policy to understand what's covered during rideshare activity. Many policies exclude commercial use, leaving you unprotected.
Consider rideshare insurance endorsements or hybrid policies that provide gap coverage during all periods.
Document every accident carefully, including the at-fault driver's information, witness contacts, and evidence of your rideshare activity status.
Consult an attorney if injured while driving, as the insurance landscape is complex and multiple coverage sources may apply.