Who’s Liable? Unpacking Responsibility in Uber and Lyft Crashes

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have changed how we get around. But when accidents happen, figuring out who’s responsible can be overwhelming. Was it the driver’s fault? The company’s? Another vehicle’s? What about insurance? If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft crash, either as a passenger, pedestrian, or in another vehicle, you may be facing questions about insurance, liability, and what comes next. Trust Guss Injury Lawyers can help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.

Why Is Rideshare Accident Liability So Complex?

The answer to “Who’s responsible?” isn’t always obvious in a rideshare crash. In fact, it often depends on a few factors:

• Whether the app was on
• Whether a ride was in progress
• What phase of the ride the driver was in
• Who caused the crash—your driver, another driver, or both
• Whether the vehicle or its parts malfunctioned

These details impact who may be financially responsible for your medical expenses, income losses, and other damages. And unfortunately, both Uber and Lyft often try to distance themselves from responsibility.

Rideshare Drivers Are Independent Contractors

In Texas, rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors—not employees of Uber or Lyft. This classification matters because it limits when the rideshare platform can be held responsible for accidents.

Under Texas Occupations Code § 1954, Uber and Lyft generally aren’t liable for accidents unless they occur during specific app phases where company insurance is active. When the app is off, the driver’s personal insurance applies.

Still, there are exceptions. If Uber or Lyft failed to screen a driver properly, ignored red flags, or exercised too much control over a driver’s work, the platform could face direct liability.

Rideshare Insurance Coverage

What’s Covered and When?

Uber and Lyft don’t operate like traditional transportation companies. Instead, they rely on tiered insurance coverage that activates in phases based on the driver's app status:

App Off

If the app is off and the driver is using the vehicle for personal errands, only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. Neither Uber nor Lyft will provide coverage during this time.

App On, Waiting for a Ride

Once the driver activates the app but hasn’t yet accepted a ride, contingent liability coverage applies. Uber and Lyft offer:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury
• $100,000 per accident total
• $25,000 for property damage

But this only kicks in if the driver’s personal policy doesn’t cover the crash.

En Route or With a Passenger

Once a ride is accepted or underway, $1 million in commercial liability coverage applies. This includes:

• Third-party liability coverage
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
• Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage

This is the most comprehensive phase of coverage and often plays a significant role in rideshare injury cases.

Who May Be Liable in a Rideshare Crash?

Responsibility for an Uber or Lyft accident can fall on multiple parties—and in many cases, more than one person or company shares the blame. Understanding each potential source of liability is key to building a strong legal claim.

The Rideshare Driver

If the Uber or Lyft driver caused the crash through negligence—such as distracted driving, speeding, or running a red light—they may be held personally liable. Their actions are judged under Texas negligence law, which requires drivers to operate vehicles with reasonable care.

The Rideshare Company (Uber or Lyft)

Uber or Lyft could also be held responsible if they contributed to unsafe conditions. This might include failing to remove a dangerous driver from the platform or maintaining policies that encourage risky driving behavior. If the company exercises enough control over the situation, its liability protections may not apply.

A Third-Party Driver

Rideshare crashes often involve other vehicles. If a separate driver caused the collision—by swerving, rear-ending the rideshare car, or ignoring traffic laws—they may be held liable for your injuries and property damage.

A Vehicle Manufacturer or Mechanic

Sometimes the cause of a crash isn’t a person, but a mechanical failure. If a defective part—like faulty brakes, tires, or steering components—contributed to the crash, the manufacturer or a negligent mechanic may be responsible.

Why a Thorough Investigation Matters

These cases are rarely simple. A complete investigation is often necessary to determine exactly what caused the crash and which parties should be held financially accountable. At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, we move quickly to gather the evidence needed to protect your rights. If you’ve been injured in a Texas Uber or Lyft accident, reach out for a free consultation. Our team is available 24/7, and you won’t owe legal fees unless we’re able to recover compensation for your case.

Common Rideshare Accident Liability Scenarios

The following situations show how multiple layers of liability and insurance can apply. Your lawyer’s job is to identify all potential sources of recovery and pursue them aggressively.

• Driver error, during an active ride: A Lyft driver runs a red light with a passenger onboard. The injured rider can file a claim against Lyft’s $1 million policy.
• Third-party fault, active ride: An Uber is hit by a speeding pickup truck while carrying a rider. The rider can pursue the truck driver’s insurance and, if necessary, Uber’s policy.
• Pedestrian hit while app is on: A rideshare driver hits a pedestrian while searching for a fare. Uber’s contingent $50k/$100k coverage applies, but the platform may also face scrutiny for allowing an unsafe driver.

What Is the Statute of Limitations?

Under Texas law, most victims have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. That includes accidents involving Uber or Lyft. The deadline may be extended in certain situations, like when a victim is a minor or when injuries are discovered later.

Because these deadlines are strict and rideshare evidence like trip logs can be lost, it’s important to act quickly. Don’t wait to protect your claim. Call Trust Guss Injury Lawyers at 888-298-4070 or contact us online today so we can begin building your case.

Why Trust Guss After a Rideshare Crash?

At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, we know how quickly a rideshare crash can turn your life upside down. That’s why we handle the legal legwork so you can focus on recovery—and we don’t back down from big-name companies or their insurers. When you choose us, you get:

• Decades of experience with complex vehicle-related injury claims
• Around-the-clock access to our legal team
• You won’t pay any legal fees unless we’re able to secure compensation in your case
• Help connecting with medical care providers, even if you’re uninsured
• A client-first approach rooted in compassion and legal diligence

How We Approach Uber and Lyft Accident Cases

Rideshare accidents require a careful strategy. We work quickly to secure critical trip data, determine which insurance phase applies, and identify every potential source of compensation. Our team has the experience to deal directly with Uber and Lyft’s insurance companies, counter their tactics, and pursue fair settlements. When necessary, we’re prepared to take your case to trial to protect your rights.

Contact Our Texas Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers Today

We Are Here for You

Uber and Lyft accident claims can be confusing, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Trust Guss Injury Lawyers has experience handling these complex cases and the commitment to pursue fair compensation for your injuries.

We guide you through each stage of the legal process—from investigation to negotiation to resolution. If you’ve been injured in a Texas rideshare accident, call 888-298-4070 or contact us online for your free consultation. We’re ready to help 24/7.