How insurance applies in rideshare accident claims depends on the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the crash and who was at fault for the collision. The rideshare company’s insurance may apply, but coverage varies based on whether the driver was off-duty, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger. If someone else caused the accident, their insurance might be responsible. Our rideshare accident lawyers in Milwaukee can help determine which policy covers your damages and ensure you don’t face the insurance companies alone. We can give you tailored guidance for your situation during a free case review.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage
State law requires rideshare companies to carry insurance for accidents involving their drivers. However, coverage depends on the driver’s status during the accident. Here’s how it breaks down:
The Driver Is Using Their Car Privately and Is Inactive on the Rideshare App
If the driver is off duty, their personal auto insurance policy applies. The rideshare company’s insurance does not cover the accident in this case.
The Driver Is Logged In But Has Not Accepted a Ride Request
Companies, such as Uber and Lyft, provide partial coverage during their drivers’ wait times for ride requests. They are legally required to do so, per (Wis. Stat. § 440.48(1)(b)). The minimum coverage limits are:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per individual
- $100,000 for total bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
This coverage applies if the driver’s insurance company denies the claim or does not fully cover the damages.
The Driver Accepts a Rider’s Request or Is Taking a Passenger to the Destination
Once the driver accepts a ride and is on the way to pick up a passenger or has one in the car, Uber and Lyft provide at least:
- $1 million in liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (amounts vary)
- Contingent collision and comprehensive coverage (if the driver has personal coverage)
This coverage applies until the ride ends.
What If Another Driver Causes the Accident?
If another motorist is at fault, their insurance should cover the damages. However, many drivers either do not have insurance or enough insurance to cover losses from an accident. If this happens, the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply, but only when the driver is transporting a passenger.
Who Pays for Passenger Injuries?
Passengers in a rideshare accident may have multiple options for compensation:
- The at–fault driver’s insurance (if another driver caused the crash)
- The rideshare company’s insurance (if the rideshare driver was at fault)
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (if the at-fault driver lacks coverage)
Our Milwaukee Uber and Lyft accident lawyers will help injured passengers determine which insurance applies.
For a free legal consultation, call 414-276-6666
Getting Legal Help for a Rideshare Accident in Wisconsin
Dealing with insurance companies after a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. Our Milwaukee car accident lawyerswill:
- Identify the correct insurance policy to file against.
- Gather evidence from the accident to prove who’s responsible.
- Identify liable parties, such as the rideshare driver, another driver, the rideshare company, or third parties like vehicle manufacturers.
- Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair payout for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Lead your case for financial recovery in court if we must resolve your legal matter at trial.
Gruber Law Offices has the resources to take on insurance companies immediately. Don’t face them alone—let our experienced legal team fight for you. Rideshare insurers may try to settle for less than the claim is worth, but we will challenge any low settlement offers you may receive.
What If You’re a Pedestrian or Cyclist Hit by a Rideshare Driver?
Pedestrians and cyclists hit by a rideshare driver can file a claim against:
- The driver’s auto insurance (if they were off-duty)
- The rideshare company’s insurance (if they were logged in or transporting a passenger)
Pedestrians and cyclists are often severely injured in these accidents. Our lawyers will build their case and work to recover full compensation.
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Wisconsin Sets a Statute of Limitations for Rideshare Claims
Plaintiffs in Wisconsin can demand damages for injury-related losses. Generally, a three-year deadline starts on the accident date for those wanting to file a personal injury lawsuit (Wis. Stat. § 893.54). If the crash involves a government entity, you may have a shorter deadline, so we advise that you talk with us as soon as possible. Missing this deadline can mean losing your opportunity and right to seek compensation. Our team will file your lawsuit on time if we represent you.
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We Will Explain How Insurance Applies to Your Rideshare Accident
You don’t have to figure out how insurance coverage applies to your claim if you’ve been in a rideshare accident. We recommend that you don’t take on the insurer on your own. We will represent you and lead your case with no upfront fees. There’s no fee unless we recover compensation for you.GruberLaw Offices has served thousands of people in Wisconsin for over four decades. We offer a free consultation so that you can get legal guidance for your situation. It takes only “One Call…That’s All” to learn how we can help with your rideshare accident claim today.
Call or text 414-276-6666 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
