Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney in Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor Serving West Michig and Washtenaw Counties

Rideshare Accidents in Michigan: Understanding Your Legal Rights After an Uber or Lyft Crash

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in Michigan, offering convenience and affordability for riders. However, accidents involving rideshare vehicles can be legally complex. If you’re injured in a rideshare accident—whether as a passenger, driver, or third party—you may be entitled to compensation.

Attorney Aaron Israels helps accident victims in Grand Rapids and throughout West Michigan understand their legal rights and recover the compensation they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about rideshare accidents in Michigan.

Who is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on who caused the crash and the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the accident. The party responsible could be:

• The Uber or Lyft Driver – If the rideshare driver was negligent (e.g., speeding, distracted driving, or running a red light), their insurance—or Uber/Lyft’s insurance—may be responsible.
• Another Driver – If another motorist caused the accident, their auto insurance should cover your damages.
• Uber or Lyft’s Insurance Policy – Rideshare companies provide $1 million in liability coverage, but coverage depends on whether the driver was actively working for the company at the time of the crash.

Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage in Michigan

Michigan No-Fault Insurance laws make rideshare accident claims different from standard car accidents. Both Uber and Lyft provide coverage, but the amount depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.

Scenario 1: The Rideshare Driver Was Not Logged into the App

If the Uber/Lyft driver wasn’t logged in, their personal auto insurance applies. Uber and Lyft provide no coverage in this scenario.

Scenario 2: The Rideshare Driver Was Logged in but Had No Passenger

If the driver was waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited coverage:
–$50,000 per person for bodily injury
-$100,000 per accident for bodily injury
-$25,000 for property damage

Scenario 3: The Rideshare Driver Was on the Way to Pick Up a Passenger or Had a Rider in the Car

Once the driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Rideshare Accident?

If you were injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Bills – Coverage for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost income.
• Pain and Suffering – Compensation for emotional distress, trauma, and diminished quality of life.
• Property Damage – If your vehicle or personal property was damaged in the crash.

Michigan No-Fault Benefits for Rideshare Accidents

Because Michigan is a No-Fault state, injured individuals first file a claim with their own auto insurance provider—even if they were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages (up to 85%)
• Attendant care and rehabilitation costs

If you don’t have auto insurance, you can file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurance policy or, possibly, the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan.

Can Uber & Lyft Be Held Responsible for Intentional Driver Misconduct?

One of the biggest legal challenges in these cases is that Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This means they often argue they are not responsible for the driver’s intentional actions, such as sexual assault or harassment. However, courts have ruled in some cases that rideshare companies can be held liable for negligence, such as:

• Failure to properly vet drivers (allowing drivers with criminal records or prior complaints to remain active).
• Ignoring passenger complaints about misconduct.
• Failing to implement proper safety measures, such as real-time monitoring of rides.

In Michigan, negligent hiring and retention claims can be brought against rideshare companies if it can be shown that they failed to act on red flags regarding a driver’s behavior. For example, if a driver had multiple past complaints of harassment and Uber or Lyft failed to remove them from the platform, the company could be held liable in a lawsuit.

To reduce the risk of driver misconduct, passengers should take extra precautions, such as:
– Verifying the driver and car details before entering the vehicle.
– Sharing ride details with a friend or family member.
– Sitting in the back seat and avoiding personal conversations about home addresses or routines.
– Exiting immediately (when safe to do so) if you feel unsafe and reporting concerns to Uber/Lyft or the police.

What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Taking the right steps after a rideshare accident can protect your rights and strengthen your case:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance.
2. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
3. Get Contact Information – Collect details from the rideshare driver, other involved drivers, and witnesses.
4. Request a Copy of the Police Report – This serves as valuable evidence.
5. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries can appear later.
6. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft – Use the rideshare app to notify the company.
7. Consult a Michigan Rideshare Accident Lawyer – Insurance companies often minimize or deny claims, so legal representation is essential.

Why You Need a Michigan Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Uber and Lyft have powerful insurance companies that may try to limit or deny your claim. An experienced personal injury attorney can:

–Investigate the accident and determine liability
– Deal with Uber, Lyft, and insurance companies on your behalf
– Ensure you receive full No-Fault benefits for medical bills and lost wages
– Pursue additional compensation through a lawsuit if necessary

Aaron Israels is an attorney who represents rideshare accident victims in Grand Rapids and West Michigan. He will fight against insurance companies and ensure you get the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident? Get a Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a rideshare accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Rideshare accident claims are complex, and having an experienced attorney on your side can make a big difference in your case.

For a free consultation:

Call (616) 280-4303

Visit our website at www.AaronUnderstands.com

This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.