How does rideshare insurance work after an accident?

Rideshare insurance depends on what the driver was doing in the app at the time of the crash. If the driver was logged in but had not accepted a ride yet, coverage is more limited. If the driver was on the way to pick someone up or already had a passenger in the car, coverage can go up to $1 million. This is one reason rideshare accident claims can be more complex than a regular car crash claim. It helps to find out right away what phase the driver was in when the accident happened.

Do I need a lawyer in Kentucky’s no-fault system?

You may not always need a lawyer, but it can be very helpful if your injuries are serious or your bills go beyond PIP coverage. Kentucky is a no-fault state, but if your injuries meet the legal threshold to bring a claim against the at-fault driver, a lawyer can help you understand your options, deal with insurance companies, and protect your right to seek full compensation.

If I was a rideshare passenger, whose PIP insurance covers me?

Usually, the PIP coverage for the rideshare vehicle you were in applies first. That means the insurance tied to the Uber or Lyft vehicle is often the first place a passenger turns for no-fault benefits. If that coverage is not available or runs out, your own auto policy may apply next. If there is no other coverage, you may still have options through Kentucky’s Assigned Claims Plan.

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in Lexington?

In many cases, you have two years to file a personal injury claim for a serious rideshare accident in Kentucky. That deadline can be very important, and missing it may keep you from recovering compensation. Because deadlines can depend on the facts of the case, it is smart to act as soon as you can. A lawyer can review your situation and help you make sure everything is filed on time.

Lexington Rideshare Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver, you may be dealing with mounting medical bills that leave you wondering if no-fault insurance coverage will be adequate for them or what to do if personal injury protection (PIP) benefits fall short. That’s where an experienced Lexington rideshare accident lawyer can provide legal representation. At our personal injury law firm, we seek compensation for injured accident victims through the insurance claims process—call us for a free case evaluation.

In this Article

What Is a Rideshare Company Under Kentucky Law?

Kentucky law KRS 281.010(52) defines a Transportation Network Company (TNC) as a business that uses apps or digital platforms—like Uber and Lyft. Rideshare services connect passengers with drivers for prearranged rides.

How Do Rideshare Insurance Policies Work?

Rideshare liability insurance covers drivers and passengers during accidents according to the driver’s status. There are three phases:

Phase 1: The driver is logged into the rideshare app but hasn’t accepted a ride request. Limited liability coverage applies (e.g., $50,000 per person, $100,000 total).
Phase 2: Driver is en route to pick up passengers. Coverage increases to up to $1 million.
Phase 3: Passengers are in the car. The same $1 million coverage applies.

Do I Need a Lawyer in the Kentucky No-Fault System?

If you’ve been seriously injured in an Uber and Lyft accident in Kentucky, seek medical attention. Then speak with an experienced personal injury attorney with knowledge of no-fault insurance who can help determine if you have a valid rideshare accident claim.

An experienced rideshare accident attorney can handle the entire legal process. They will investigate the accident scene, gather evidence to determine liability, and take your case to trial if necessary.

Types of Compensation for Ridesharing Crash Injuries in Lexington

Types of Compensation for Injuries Suffered in a Rideshare Crash in Lexington

What Is Kentucky’s No-Fault Law for Motor Vehicle Accidents?

Kentucky’s no-fault law is the Motor Vehicle Reparations Act (KRS 304.39):

It mandates PIP coverage for most vehicles, excluding motorcycles.
PIP provides up to $10,000 for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs, regardless of fault.
It allows the right to pursue a car accident lawsuit against an at-fault driver when injuries meet serious injury thresholds.

What Are Serious Injuries in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, the “serious injury” threshold allows you to step outside the no-fault system and sue an at-fault driver. You meet this threshold if your injuries result in any of the following:

Medical expenses exceeding $1,000
A bone fracture
A permanent injury, causing permanent impairment of a body function
Permanent disfigurement
Any accident resulting in wrongful death

If I’m a Rideshare Passenger in an Accident in Kentucky, Whose PIP Covers Me?

In Kentucky, PIP benefits are generally tied to the vehicle you are riding in—not necessarily your own policy first.

1. Rideshare vehicle’s policy:

Primary source: PIP is typically paid by the insurer of the vehicle you are occupying at the time of the accident.
The Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance, PIP provided by the driver or the company, is usually the first to pay for a passenger’s claim.

2. Your own personal auto policy:

Secondary source: if the rideshare vehicle is uninsured, or its PIP coverage is exhausted, you then turn to your own personal auto insurance policy.

3. Kentucky Assigned Claims Plan:

If no other PIP coverage is available (e.g., neither the vehicle nor you have insurance), you can apply for benefits through this plan.

What Financial Compensation Is Available for Seriously Injured Rideshare Accident Victims?

Compensation beyond the victim’s own insurance company’s no-fault benefits includes medical costs exceeding $10,000, future care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and non-economic damages like loss of enjoyment of life.

How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Accident Case in Lexington, KY?

Under Kentucky’s Motor Vehicle Reparations Act, serious accident victims generally have two years to pursue compensation with an Uber or Lyft accident claim for a ridesharing accident resulting in severe injuries. Your personal injury accident attorney in Lexington will ensure you meet the deadline.

Our Lexington Rideshare Accident Attorneys Can Help

If you or someone you care about was injured in a traffic accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, and it was caused by negligence, you may have a valid personal injury case. An Uber or Lyft accident attorney from our law firm can provide legal guidance.

Contact our personal injury law firm today for a free consultation with an experienced Uber or Lyft accident lawyer. We can review your Uber or Lyft accident case and explain your options to recover fair compensation. We operate on a contingency fee basis: you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case.

Do I have a case?