Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have become an everyday convenience for residents and visitors throughout Utah. Whether you’re catching a ride from downtown Salt Lake City to the University of Utah, heading to the Salt Lake City International Airport, or navigating traffic on I-15 near the Point of the Mountain, these services promise safety and reliability.
But what happens if your Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident? Understanding your legal rights as a passenger is essential, especially when serious injuries and costly medical bills are involved. Call Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Robson • Weeks today to schedule your free consultation with our skilled Utah rideshare accident lawyers.
Determining Who Is at Fault in a Rideshare Accident
If an Uber driver is at fault in Utah or a Lyft driver’s negligence leads to a crash, identifying liability is the first step toward recovering compensation. Fault is usually determined by reviewing the police report, eyewitness statements, dashcam or traffic camera footage, and other evidence.
Some common causes of rideshare driver negligence include:
- Distracted driving: Using the app while driving, texting, or adjusting GPS navigation.
- Speeding or reckless driving: Especially along busy corridors like State Street, 400 South, or Foothill Drive.
- Failure to follow traffic laws: Running red lights, improper lane changes, or failing to yield.
Once fault is established, the focus turns to which insurance policy applies, either the driver’s personal auto policy or the rideshare company’s commercial coverage.
Insurance Coverage for Rideshare Accidents in Utah
One of the most confusing aspects of a Lyft crash claim or Uber accident case is the layered insurance coverage. Utah law and company policies outline different levels of insurance depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:
- App off: If the rideshare app is not on, the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
- App on, waiting for a ride: Limited liability coverage from Uber or Lyft may apply in addition to the driver’s personal policy.
- Passenger in the vehicle: The rideshare company’s $1 million liability policy is generally in effect, covering both the passenger and third parties.
This means if you suffer a rideshare passenger injury, you may be able to recover damages through the company’s commercial policy, which often provides far more coverage than a personal auto policy.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Rideshare Accident
If your Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident, your actions at the scene can have a significant impact on your ability to recover compensation later.
- Check for injuries and call 911. Even if your injuries seem minor, adrenaline can mask symptoms of serious harm.
- Document the scene. Take pictures of vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. In areas like Temple Square or along 700 East, traffic cameras may also capture the incident.
- Gather contact information. Get names, phone numbers, and insurance details from the driver, other involved motorists, and witnesses.
- Report the accident to Uber or Lyft. Use the in-app accident reporting tools.
- Seek medical attention. Prompt evaluation creates a medical record that can support your injury claim.
Common Injuries in Rideshare Passenger Accidents
While every accident is different, certain injuries frequently occur when a rideshare driver is negligent:
- Whiplash and neck injuries: Often caused by sudden stops or rear-end collisions.
- Head trauma: Including concussions from striking the interior of the vehicle.
- Back injuries: Herniated discs or muscle strains from the force of impact.
- Broken bones: Especially in high-speed crashes along I-215 or Bangerter Highway.
Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, which is why seeing a doctor immediately after a crash is essential, even for seemingly minor incidents.
Challenges in Uber and Lyft Accident Claims
Unlike a typical two-car accident, rideshare cases often involve multiple insurance companies and corporate legal teams. This can create challenges, such as:
- Disputes over liability: Uber or Lyft may try to shift blame to another driver or argue that the rideshare driver was not actively engaged in work.
- Complex insurance negotiations: Commercial insurers may try to settle for less than you deserve.
- Proving damages: You will need strong evidence linking your injuries to the accident.
Because these companies operate nationwide, they often have significant resources to contest claims, making it vital to have an experienced Utah rideshare accident lawyer representing your interests.
Special Considerations for Utah Rideshare Accidents
Utah’s no-fault insurance laws require most drivers to turn to their own personal injury protection coverage first, regardless of who caused the accident. However, as a passenger in a rideshare, your coverage options may differ:
- If your injuries meet Utah’s threshold for stepping outside the no-fault system, such as medical expenses over $3,000 or certain serious injuries, you may file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance.
- Rideshare drivers in Utah must carry higher insurance coverage when logged into the app, which can help ensure compensation is available for injured passengers.
This is especially important for those who rely on rideshares in high-traffic areas, such as The Gateway, Sugar House, or near ski resorts like Snowbird and Alta, where weather and road conditions can quickly become hazardous.
Filing a Lyft Crash Claim or Uber Passenger Injury Case
If you were injured as a passenger and the rideshare driver is responsible, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost earnings: Lost wages caused by time away from work.
Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. - Property damage: If your belongings were damaged in the crash.
The process begins by notifying the rideshare company of the incident and filing a claim with the appropriate insurer. From there, negotiations may occur, but if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit.
Why Legal Representation Matters
While it may be tempting to handle a claim on your own, rideshare accident cases can quickly become complicated. Having a skilled Utah rideshare accident lawyer on your side offers several advantages:
- Thorough investigation: Collecting accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony.
- Insurance navigation: Determining which policy applies and maximizing available coverage.
- Negotiation leverage: Experienced attorneys know how to push back against low settlement offers.
- Court representation: If necessary, filing and pursuing a lawsuit on your behalf.
Rideshare companies and their insurers often prioritize their own bottom line, not the passenger’s recovery. An attorney can ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Protecting Your Rights After a Rideshare Accident in Utah
If your Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident in Utah, you may have more than one path to compensation but also more than one party pushing back against your claim. Acting quickly, gathering evidence, and securing legal help are the best ways to ensure you receive fair treatment.
Whether the accident happened on I-80 near Parleys Canyon, along 300 West in Salt Lake City, or on a quiet neighborhood street in Sandy, knowing what steps to take can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft crash as a passenger, it’s important to act quickly. An experienced Utah rideshare accident lawyer can help determine fault, handle the insurance process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our trained legal team at Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Robson • Weeks has extensive experience representing rideshare accident victims across Utah. Call (801) 500-4000 today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward after your accident.
