Who Pays After an Uber/Lyft Accident?
Ridesharing has transformed how Albertans travel. Services like Uber and Lyft offer convenience and affordability — but when an accident happens, things quickly get complicated.
Who's responsible for paying medical bills, vehicle damage, or lost wages? The driver? The rideshare company? Another motorist?
The answer depends on **who was at fault** and **what stage of the trip** the accident occurred in. Rideshare drivers operate under special insurance rules that differ from typical auto coverage.
As Alberta personal injury lawyers experienced in Uber and Lyft claims, we understand how insurers handle these cases — and how to ensure injured passengers, drivers, and third parties get the compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Uber/Lyft Accidents
Rideshare drivers face unique distractions and pressures that increase crash risk. Common causes include:
What Compensation Is Available
Victims of Uber or Lyft accidents can recover compensation for:
Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident
Immediate action is crucial to preserve evidence and protect your rights:
Call 911
Call **911** and request police and medical assistance.
Take Screenshots
Take **screenshots** showing the trip details, driver name, and timestamp.
Photograph the Scene
**Photograph** the scene, vehicles, and injuries.
Get Witness Contact Information
Get **witness contact information**.
Report the Collision
**Report** the collision through the Uber/Lyft app and to your insurer.
Avoid Speaking With Other Insurers
Avoid speaking with **other insurers** until you've received legal advice.
Contact an Alberta Rideshare-Accident Lawyer
Contact an **Alberta rideshare-accident lawyer** immediately — app data can be deleted within days.
How a Lawyer Proves Fault and Coverage
Rideshare accident investigations involve both traditional evidence and app data. We:
Obtain Digital Trip Records
Obtain Uber or Lyft **digital trip records** confirming app activity.
Review Vehicle Black-Box and GPS Data
Review vehicle **black-box (EDR)** and **GPS data**.
Gather Witness Statements and Footage
Gather **witness statements**, **dash-cam**, and **CCTV footage**.
Analyze Driver Logs
Analyze **driver logs** and **fatigue records**.
Coordinate With Multiple Insurers
Coordinate with **multiple insurers** to confirm coverage triggers.
Quantify Full Compensation
Quantify **medical, income, and property losses** for full compensation.
Case Example
A Calgary passenger suffered a fractured wrist when their Uber was rear-ended. The at-fault driver had minimal insurance. We accessed Uber's commercial policy for additional coverage, securing **$215,000** for treatment and lost wages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Uber and Lyft accidents often leave victims uncertain about who pays — but Alberta's laws provide clear protection once the app's status is confirmed. The rideshare company's commercial insurance is designed to cover passengers, cyclists, and other motorists, but insurers rarely make it easy.
Get medical attention right away
Save trip screenshots and photos
Avoid insurer communication
Contact an experienced lawyer immediately