What to Do If You're in an Accident as a Rideshare Passenger (Uber or Lyft)
In today’s world, hopping into a rideshare like Uber or Lyft is often second nature—whether you’re heading home from a night out or catching a ride to the airport. But what happens if the unexpected occurs and your rideshare trip ends in an accident?
As a passenger, you may not be driving, but you still have important rights—and responsibilities—when it comes to protecting your health and any legal claims. At Phillips, Cymerman & Trager Injury Lawyers, we’re here to walk you through what to do in the immediate aftermath of a rideshare accident and how to ensure your rights are preserved.
1. Prioritize Safety and Health
First and foremost, check on your own safety. If you’re injured, call 911 or ask someone else to. Even if your injuries seem minor, adrenaline can mask symptoms. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If you’re able, move to a safe location away from traffic. Safety always comes first.
2. Call the Police
It’s important that the accident is reported. A police report provides an official record of the crash, which can be a critical piece of evidence in any future insurance or legal claim.
Even if your driver or the other party suggests not calling the police, insist on it. You have a right to an official record of what happened.
3. Gather Information
As a passenger, you may not be driving—but you can still take steps to document the scene:
- Take photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area.
- Screenshot your Uber or Lyft ride details, including the driver's name, license plate, and trip timeline.
- Get the names, contact information, and insurance details of all drivers involved.
- If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.
4. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft
Both companies have in-app features to report an accident. Doing so helps create a record of the incident with the rideshare platform and initiates their insurance process.
Important Note: Uber and Lyft both carry $1 million in liability insurance that can apply to passengers injured in an accident.
5. Don’t Settle Without Legal Advice
Insurance companies—whether it’s Uber’s, Lyft’s, or a third-party driver’s—may offer you a quick settlement. Don’t accept anything until you’ve spoken with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to pursue further compensation, even if your injuries turn out to be more serious than initially believed.
6. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Rideshare accidents can get complicated quickly. There may be multiple insurance policies involved, and determining liability isn’t always straightforward.
At Phillips, Cymerman & Trager Injury Lawyers, we have experience handling rideshare accident cases and know how to navigate the complexities to help you receive full and fair compensation.
Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or ongoing pain and suffering, you don’t have to face it alone. Let us advocate for you.
Being in a car accident is stressful under any circumstance—but as a rideshare passenger, it can be particularly confusing. By taking the right steps immediately after the accident, you can protect your health, your rights, and your future.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a rideshare accident in the Milwaukee area,
contact Phillips, Cymerman & Trager Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation.
