Auto Accidents
Experienced legal representation for passengers, drivers, and pedestrians injured in Uber and Lyft crashes.
Protecting victims of Rideshare Collisions in Michigan
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how Michiganders travel — but when accidents happen, determining who’s responsible can get complicated fast. Insurance coverage depends on whether the driver was logged into the app, carrying a passenger, or driving for personal use. These overlapping policies often lead to confusion, delays, and denied claims for those injured.
At Muawad PC, we help accident victims cut through the red tape. Our firm represents passengers, rideshare drivers, and other motorists injured in Uber and Lyft crashes throughout Metro Detroit and across Michigan. We understand the specific insurance structures, state laws, and corporate tactics these companies use — and we fight to ensure every client receives the compensation they’re entitled to.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare collisions can occur under many circumstances — often involving the same forms of negligence seen in traditional crashes:
Distracted driving due to GPS or phone use
Speeding or reckless driving between rides
Drowsy driving from long work hours
Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers
Unsafe passenger drop-offs or pickups
Negligence by another motorist
Because rideshare drivers spend long hours behind the wheel, they face elevated risks for fatigue and distraction — making proper legal representation essential after an accident.
Understanding Michigan’s Rideshare Laws and Coverage
Uber and Lyft are classified as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) and are required by Michigan law to carry layered insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.
Here’s how coverage typically works:
Driver Not Logged Into the App:
Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
Driver Logged In, Waiting for a Ride Request:
Limited liability coverage through Uber or Lyft:
$50,000 per person for injury
$100,000 per accident for injury
$25,000 for property damage
Driver En Route to Pick Up or Carrying a Passenger:
Full $1 million commercial liability policy provided by Uber or Lyft.
Rideshare passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians may all be covered under these policies, depending on the circumstances of the crash.
How Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Applies
Because Michigan operates under a no-fault system, injured individuals usually file a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim through their own insurer first. However, serious injuries may entitle victims to file a third-party claim against the at-fault driver or the rideshare company’s insurer for:
Pain and suffering
Permanent impairment or disability
Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
Excess medical expenses beyond PIP limits
Key Legal Considerations
Rideshare accident claims often involve multiple insurance companies and strict notice requirements — prompt legal action is essential.
Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, which can complicate direct lawsuits against the companies themselves.
Michigan’s statute of limitations gives victims three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit for third-party damages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Depending on your situation, coverage may come from your own no-fault insurer, the rideshare driver’s personal policy, or Uber/Lyft’s commercial coverage.
Not usually, since drivers are considered independent contractors. However, you can file a claim against the company’s insurer under their $1 million policy if you were injured during an active ride.
You may still qualify for compensation through the driver’s personal insurance or the company’s commercial policy, depending on whether the app was active.
Yes. Active rides and en route trips are covered by a $1 million liability policy. When waiting for a ride request, lower limits apply.
App data (trip logs and timestamps) determines whether the driver was active, waiting, or offline — and therefore which policy is responsible.
You can still claim benefits under Michigan’s no-fault system and may pursue additional compensation under the rideshare company’s policy.
Yes, if another driver caused the crash or if the Uber/Lyft policy applies during active trips. However, rideshare drivers are not considered employees and typically don’t receive workers’ comp.
Because these cases involve multiple insurers, overlapping coverages, and strict deadlines. An experienced lawyer ensures your rights are preserved and your compensation isn’t minimized.
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