Minneapolis Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Minneapolis, MN?

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a convenient way to get around Minneapolis. But as ridesharing grows, so does the number of accidents involving these vehicles. Whether you were a passenger, a driver, or another motorist involved in a rideshare crash, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses.

At Butwinick Injury Law, our Minneapolis rideshare accident lawyers understand the unique insurance and liability issues that come with Uber and Lyft claims. We fight to hold negligent drivers and corporations accountable, helping injured victims recover the compensation they deserve.

Schedule a free consultation by calling (763) 415-7462 or filling out our online contact form today.

Minnesota Rideshare Laws

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are considered Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) under Minnesota law. These companies must comply with specific state regulations designed to protect passengers and the public.

Key aspects of Minnesota’s rideshare laws include:

• Background Checks: Uber and Lyft must perform criminal and driving history checks on all drivers before allowing them to operate.
• Vehicle Requirements: Vehicles must meet safety and inspection standards set by the state.
• Insurance Coverage: Minnesota law requires specific levels of insurance depending on the driver’s rideshare status (logged off, logged on but waiting, or transporting passengers).
• TNC Registration: All TNCs must register with the Minnesota Department of Transportation and meet state compliance rules.

Even with these laws, rideshare accidents happen frequently. When they do, understanding the insurance and liability coverage available is essential to protecting your rights.

Who is Liable for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Liability in an Uber or Lyft accident can be complex because it depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. Each rideshare company provides different insurance coverage based on whether the driver is logged into the app and whether they have accepted a ride.

Here’s how liability generally breaks down:

When the Driver Is Logged Off the App

If the Uber or Lyft driver is not logged into the rideshare app, they are considered a private motorist, not a rideshare driver. This means that their personal auto insurance is responsible for covering any damages or injuries resulting from an accident.

Uber and Lyft do not provide coverage when a driver is off-duty. Victims must file a claim against the driver’s personal insurance company, just like in any other car accident.

When the Driver Is Logged On but Hasn’t Accepted a Ride Request

When a driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage if the driver’s personal insurance does not apply.

In Minnesota, this contingent coverage typically includes:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury
• $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 for property damage

However, this coverage only applies after the driver’s personal insurance has been exhausted or denied.

When the Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Is Transporting a Passenger

Once a driver accepts a ride request or is actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide their highest level of insurance coverage:

• $1 million in third-party liability coverage
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage for accidents caused by other drivers who lack adequate insurance
• Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver maintains their own policy)

This means that if you are an Uber or Lyft passenger injured in a crash—or another driver hit by a rideshare vehicle while it was on an active trip—you may be covered under this $1 million policy.

Common Causes of Uber & Lyft Accidents

Rideshare crashes can happen for many of the same reasons as any other car accident, including:

• Distracted driving (texting, checking the rideshare app)
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Fatigue from long shifts or multiple jobs
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Inexperienced or unqualified drivers
• Drunk or impaired driving
• Unsafe road or weather conditions

Regardless of the cause, if someone’s negligence led to your injuries, you have the right to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Compensation After a Rideshare Accident

Victims of rideshare accidents in Minneapolis may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses: hospital bills, therapy, medications, and future care
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Every case is unique, and the total compensation will depend on the severity of your injuries and the extent of available insurance coverage.

Minneapolis Uber & Lyft Accident Claim FAQs

What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident in Minneapolis?

Call 911 to report the crash, get medical attention, exchange information with all drivers, and take photos of the scene. Then contact an experienced Minneapolis rideshare accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly for my injuries?

In most cases, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, which limits direct liability. However, the company’s insurance policy may still cover your injuries depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for most car accident injury claims is six years from the date of the crash. However, it’s best to act quickly so your lawyer can preserve evidence and file on time.

What if the Uber or Lyft driver was uninsured or underinsured?

Both Uber and Lyft provide uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage during active rides. This coverage can protect you if another at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance.

How much does it cost to hire a rideshare accident lawyer?

At Butwinick Injury Law, we work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay anything unless we win your case.

Contact us today at (763) 415-7462 for more information about our experienced and knowledgeable legal team.