Can Rideshare Drivers File Injury Claims Too?

Yes. Uber and Lyft drivers can file injury claims after a crash. The challenge is figuring out which insurance applies and how to protect your right to compensation.

If you drive in Bothell, Kirkland, or anywhere in Washington, the rules depend on whether you were offline, waiting for a ride in the app, or en route with a passenger. They also depend on whether you are claiming for your own injuries or someone else is claiming against you. The steps you take in the first days can make a big difference.

How rideshare insurance works: the three periods

Rideshare insurance typically changes based on your app status. These periods are commonly used by Uber and Lyft. Specific coverage, limits, deductibles, and add-ons like UM or PIP vary by state and company, so always check the latest terms on the company pages.

Offline
If you are not logged into the app, your personal auto policy usually applies. Many personal policies exclude commercial use, so read your policy carefully. You usually have to specifically buy additional insurance coverage for your work driving a rideshare vehicle.

• What it usually means: You use your own insurance. The rideshare policy usually does not apply when you are completely offline.

App on, waiting for a ride
When you are available for ride requests, companies often provide limited or contingent liability coverage. Your personal auto policy may still be primary for some losses.

• What it usually means: There may be some company liability coverage for third-party claims. First-party benefits for your injuries or your car can be limited during this period.

En route to a pickup or carrying a passenger
Coverage is generally broader while you are on a trip. Many markets include significant third-party liability and some contingent collision and comprehensive for the driver’s vehicle, usually with a deductible.

• What it usually means: Third-party injuries are often handled by the rideshare insurer. Your own injuries may still run through PIP or MedPay if you have it, health insurance, or contingent benefits depending on state law and policy language.

For current wording, review:
Uber insurance: https://www.uber.com/us/en/drive/insurance/
Lyft insurance: https://www.lyft.com/insurance

Who pays if you are injured?

First-party vs. third-party claims
A first-party claim is for your own medical bills or your car. A third-party claim is what a  person brings against the at-fault driver.

• If another driver caused the crash, you can bring a third-party claim against that driver’s insurer. If they are uninsured or underinsured, your UM or UIM coverage or some rideshare policies may help, depending on the period and state rules.
• Your own injuries may be paid by PIP or MedPay if you carry it, your health insurance, or by a settlement from the at-fault party.
• Vehicle repairs can go through your personal collision coverage if it applies, or through contingent collision during an active trip if offered by the platform.

Lost income
You can claim past lost earnings and, in some cases, lost earning capacity in a personal injury claim. Keep good records of trips, app screenshots, and missed work.

Washington workers’ compensation and occupational benefits
Washington has unique rules for transportation network company (TNC) drivers. The Office of the Insurance Commissioner regulates insurance, and RCW 48.177 addresses TNC insurance. The Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) oversees workers’ compensation.

Learn more:

• Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner: https://www.insurance.wa.gov/
• WA Labor & Industries (L&I): https://www.lni.wa.gov/
• RCW 48.177: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=48.177

Steps to take after a rideshare crash

• Check for injuries and call 911 if needed
• Report the crash to police and get the report number
• Report the crash in your rideshare app and follow the prompts
• Notify your personal auto insurer
• Take photos of vehicle damage, the scene, skid marks, injuries, and license plates
• Save app screenshots showing your status, route map, and trip details
• Exchange information with drivers, passengers, and witnesses
• See a doctor promptly and follow care instructions
• Save receipts, medical bills, repair estimates, and proof of missed work
• Speak with a rideshare accident attorney before signing any release

What to document

• App status screenshots and trip logs
• Photos and video of damage and the crash scene
• Police report or incident number
• Medical records, prescriptions, and mileage
• Income records and platform earnings
• All communications with insurers and the rideshare company

Common problems and how to handle them

Personal auto policy denial
Many personal auto policies exclude commercial use. Preserve your app screenshots and request the rideshare insurer’s coverage position in writing.

Contingent benefits confusion
Collision coverage may apply only during certain periods and only if you carry personal collision. Confirm deductibles and reimbursement options.

UM and UIM disputes
Washington requires insurers to offer UM and UIM coverage, but drivers can reject it. If you carry it, it can be critical when the at-fault driver is underinsured.

Arbitration and releases
Do not sign arbitration clauses or releases without understanding the rights you are giving up.

Deadlines
Washington’s statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is three years (RCW 4.16.080).

When to call an attorney

Contact a lawyer if there are injuries, coverage disputes, or pressure to sign a release. An attorney can identify the correct insurance period and protect your claim value.

Local experience matters. Our team helps drivers across Bothell, Kirkland, Redmond, and the greater Eastside.

Washington-specific notes

Washington is a fault-based state with pure comparative negligence. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault, not barred entirely. PIP and UM/UIM are optional but often valuable for rideshare drivers.

FAQ

Q: I was waiting for a ride with the app on. Who pays?
A: Your personal insurer may be primary, with limited contingent coverage from the rideshare company.

Q: I was driving a passenger. Can I claim for my injuries?
A: Yes. Coverage may include PIP, MedPay, health insurance, or claims against the at-fault driver.

Q: Can I get workers’ comp in Washington?
A: In certain circumstances, yes. Check current guidance with L&I.

Q: What damages can I pursue?
A: Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, vehicle damage, and out-of-pocket costs.

Q: How long do I have to file?
A: Many claims must be filed within three years, but notice deadlines may be shorter.

Q: Should I talk to the other driver’s insurer?
A: Share basics only. Avoid recorded statements and quick settlements.

Helpful resources

• Uber Insurance: https://www.uber.com/us/en/drive/insurance/
• Lyft Insurance: https://www.lyft.com/insurance
• WA Office of the Insurance Commissioner: https://www.insurance.wa.gov/
• RCW 48.177: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=48.177
• RCW 4.16.080: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=4.16.080
• WA Labor & Industries: https://www.lni.wa.gov/

We are here to help

If you were hurt while driving for Uber or Lyft in Bothell, Kirkland, or nearby communities, get answers before you sign anything. Max Meyers Law PLLC helps rideshare drivers protect their claims and move forward with confidence.

Call 425-970-9300 or visit https://www.maxmeyerslaw.com/ to schedule a free consultation.