Uber or Lyft Accident in Colorado? Here’s What You Need to Know

Using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft is convenient—but when an accident happens, things can get complicated fast. Whether you're commuting in Denver or vacationing in Boulder, understanding your rights as a passenger in a rideshare accident is essential. Many passengers don’t realize that the insurance coverage in these accidents depends on several key factors, including the driver’s status and who caused the crash. If your driver isn’t fully insured, you could face even more challenges recovering the compensation you deserve.

How Rideshare Insurance Works in Colorado

Rideshare companies are required by Colorado law to carry liability insurance that covers their drivers while they’re actively working. However, the level of coverage depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:

• App Off: If the driver is not logged into the app, only their personal auto insurance applies.
• App On, Waiting for a Ride: Limited coverage is provided—up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• En Route or Transporting a Passenger: When the driver is on the way to pick up a rider or currently transporting one, the coverage increases to up to $1 million in liability coverage.

This tiered system can make it challenging to determine whose insurance applies. That’s why understanding the circumstances of your accident is so important.

What If the Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?

In some cases, rideshare drivers don’t carry sufficient personal coverage, or their insurance may lapse. If your driver is at fault and underinsured, Uber and Lyft’s supplemental policies may still kick in. However, both companies have been known to dispute claims—often arguing that their driver was “off the app” at the time of the crash, even when the app was running in the background.

This is one reason why it’s critical to have legal representation early in the process. An attorney can help gather the necessary evidence—like app activity logs—to show that the rideshare company’s policy should apply.

What If Another Driver Caused the Crash?

If a third party caused the crash, your claim would usually go through that driver’s insurance. But what if they don’t have enough coverage—or any at all? That’s where uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage comes in. Uber and Lyft both provide this type of coverage for passengers, but accessing it isn’t always straightforward. Insurers often require extensive documentation and may try to deflect responsibility. A lawyer can step in to manage communications and make sure you’re treated fairly.

Your Rights as a Passenger in Colorado

As a passenger, you’re rarely considered at fault for a car accident. That means you have the right to pursue compensation for a range of damages, including:

• Emergency room visits and hospitalization
• Ongoing treatment or physical therapy
• Lost wages or reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Mental health impacts like anxiety or PTSD

Under Colorado personal injury law, you may also be entitled to future damages if your injuries result in long-term or permanent effects.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

If you’re involved in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft, take the following steps:

1. Call 911 and request medical assistance if needed. Make sure a police report is filed.
2. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicles, and any visible injuries.
3. Gather contact information from the driver(s), passengers, and witnesses.
4. Seek medical attention as soon as possible—even if you feel okay.
5. Avoid speaking with insurance companies or signing anything until you’ve consulted with a lawyer.

How Chris Parks Law Can Help

At Chris Parks Law, we’ve handled many rideshare accident cases throughout Boulder and across Colorado. We know the tactics insurers use, and we understand the complexities of rideshare coverage. Our team will help you:

• Determine who’s responsible and which insurance applies
• Gather the evidence you need to support your claim
• Handle all communications with Uber, Lyft, and insurers
• Maximize your settlement so you can focus on healing

Don’t go up against big companies alone. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Colorado, contact Chris Parks Law today for a free consultation. Let us protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call Chris Parks Law for free Legal Advice

‍