If you were hurt in an accident involving a rideshare driver—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another motorist—you may be unsure what to do next. These cases often involve more than just a careless driver. You might be dealing with complicated insurance policies, finger-pointing between drivers and companies like Uber or Lyft, and pressure from adjusters to settle fast.
At Schafer & Schafer LLP, we help people in Indiana get answers—and compensation—after rideshare crashes. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, we’ve handled serious injury cases from Hammond to Crown Point and across the region. If you’ve been hit by an Uber or Lyft driver or were injured while using one of these services, we’re here to help.
Common Types of Rideshare Accidents
Accidents involving Uber and Lyft can happen in a lot of different ways. Some of the most common scenarios we see include:
-
A rideshare passenger is hurt in a crash caused by the Uber or Lyft driver
-
A passenger is injured in a crash where another driver is at fault
-
A pedestrian or cyclist is hit by an on-duty rideshare driver
-
Another motorist is hit by an Uber or Lyft driver who was distracted or speeding
Even though rideshare companies promote safety, the reality is that these drivers are often rushing to pick up the next rider, checking their GPS, or dealing with distractions inside the car. When that leads to a serious crash, you deserve compensation for your injuries.
Who’s Responsible After a Rideshare Crash?
One of the most confusing parts of a rideshare injury case is figuring out who’s liable—and which insurance policy applies. This depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.
If the Rideshare Driver Was Off Duty
If the Uber or Lyft app was off and the driver wasn’t actively working, then they’re treated like any other driver. In this case, the driver’s personal auto insurance would apply, and we would pursue a claim against their policy just like a traditional car accident case.
If the Driver Was Waiting for a Ride Request
If the driver had the app on and was waiting for a rider, then Uber or Lyft typically provides limited third-party liability coverage. This is usually secondary to the driver’s own policy, but can still help cover damages depending on the situation.
If the Driver Was On a Ride or Picking Someone Up
When a driver is actively picking up or transporting a rider, Uber or Lyft’s $1 million commercial policy may apply. This is where our team can step in to build a strong case and fight for maximum compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, we can help you pursue compensation for things like:
-
Emergency medical treatment
-
Ongoing care or rehabilitation
-
Lost wages and loss of future earning ability
-
Pain and suffering
-
Property damage
-
Emotional distress
We’ll work with medical experts, accident investigators, and insurance adjusters to make sure your losses are fully documented. Our goal is to get you the financial support you need to move forward.
Do I Have a Case Against Uber or Lyft?
Uber and Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, which complicates the process of holding the companies directly responsible. But that doesn’t mean they’re off the hook. If your driver was using the app and actively working, the company’s insurance policy may cover your injuries—even if the driver was the one at fault.
Every case is different. We’ll review the details of your crash, figure out what coverage applies, and help you understand your legal options. Whether your case involves an individual driver or one of the big rideshare companies, we’re ready to fight for you.
Why These Cases Are Different (and Why You Need a Lawyer)
Rideshare cases are not your average fender-benders. There may be multiple insurance policies involved, conflicting statements from drivers, and pressure to accept a quick settlement that doesn’t cover your full damages. At Schafer & Schafer, we know how to cut through the noise. We’ve handled complex injury claims involving commercial policies, corporate defendants, and high-stakes negotiations. We don’t back down from big companies. And we’re not afraid to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes.
What To Do After a Rideshare Accident
If you were involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, here are a few steps you should take as soon as possible:
-
Get medical care, even if you think your injuries are minor
-
Report the accident to local police and the rideshare platform
-
Take photos and collect contact info from any drivers or witnesses
-
Don’t speak to insurance adjusters until you’ve talked to a lawyer
-
Call our office for a free consultation
The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case. Evidence can disappear quickly, and there are strict deadlines for filing a personal injury claim in Indiana and Illinois.
Talk to a Rideshare Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash involving Uber or Lyft, don’t try to navigate it alone. Let Schafer & Schafer LLP step in and take the pressure off you. We’ve been helping injury victims in Northwest Indiana for decades. You focus on healing—we’ll take care of the legal work. Call us today for a free consultation. There’s no fee unless we win your case.
