What to Do if You’re Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for its glitz, glamour, and 24/7 entertainment—but with millions of visitors and locals relying on Uber and Lyft to get around, rideshare accidents have become increasingly common. If you’re ever caught in a crash involving a rideshare vehicle, knowing what to do if you’re injured in a rideshare accident can make all the difference in your recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take immediately after the accident, explore how rideshare insurance works in Nevada, discuss common challenges in these cases, and explain why hiring a personal injury attorney is crucial to protecting your rights.

Step 1: Prioritize Your Health and Safety

The most important thing after any accident is your well-being. If you’re injured in a rideshare accident—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver—seek medical attention right away.

Even if you feel okay, don’t assume you’re uninjured. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also provides critical documentation for your injury claim.

Step 2: Call 911 and Report the Accident

Always call 911 to report the accident to law enforcement. When the police arrive, make sure to give them a clear account of what happened. The police report will serve as a key piece of evidence when filing a personal injury claim.

Be sure to tell the officer that the accident involved a rideshare vehicle. This can help clarify liability later, especially if the rideshare driver was transporting a passenger or was actively logged into the app at the time of the crash.

Step 3: Collect Important Information

One of the most critical steps in what to do if you’re injured in a rideshare accident is gathering relevant information at the scene. If you’re physically able, collect the following:

• The rideshare driver’s name, license plate, and insurance information
• The contact and insurance information of any other drivers involved
• Contact information for any eyewitnesses
• Screenshots of your rideshare trip from the app (pickup/drop-off time, driver name, vehicle info)
• Photos and videos of the accident scene, damage, injuries, traffic signals, and weather conditions

This evidence can play a major role in proving fault and obtaining compensation.

Step 4: Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company

Uber and Lyft both have in-app features that allow you to report an accident. After seeking medical attention and notifying police, report the incident through the app or by contacting their customer support.

While you are notifying the company, avoid discussing fault or giving detailed statements. These companies have insurance and legal teams working to minimize liability. Any statement you make may be used to reduce your payout later.

Step 5: Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney

Rideshare accident cases can be legally complex. Determining who is liable—and which insurance policy applies—depends on the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident.

A knowledgeable personal injury attorney will help you navigate these challenges, investigate the incident, collect evidence, and handle negotiations with the insurance companies involved.

Don’t wait to get legal advice. Speaking with a lawyer early ensures your claim is properly filed, deadlines are met, and your rights are protected from the start.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage in Nevada

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the level of coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

Offline or the App is Off

If the driver is not logged into the rideshare app, their personal auto insurance applies—not the rideshare company’s.

App is On, But No Passenger Assigned

Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage during this phase:

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

Driver is En Route to Pickup or Has a Passenger

If the driver is actively en route or has a rider in the vehicle, Uber or Lyft provides $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Understanding these tiers is key to knowing what to do if you’re injured in a rideshare accident—especially when it comes to seeking compensation.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident isn’t always straightforward. Depending on the circumstances, any of the following parties could be held responsible:

• The rideshare driver
• Another driver involved in the accident
• The rideshare company (in rare cases)
• A third-party vehicle or pedestrian
• A vehicle manufacturer (in defective parts cases)
• The city or municipality (for hazardous road conditions)

An attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties and pursue claims against the appropriate insurance providers.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, rehab, medication)
• Lost wages or income if you’re unable to work
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage (if your vehicle was involved)
• Future medical treatment
• Loss of earning capacity
• Emotional distress

The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the available insurance coverage, and the strength of your case.

Common Challenges in Rideshare Injury Claims

Rideshare accident cases present unique challenges that can make them more difficult than traditional car accidents. Some of the most common issues include:

Multiple Insurance Policies

You may need to deal with several insurance companies—the rideshare driver’s personal insurer, the rideshare company’s insurer, and possibly others.

Insurance Denials

Insurers often deny claims by arguing that the driver was not actively working or that your injuries are unrelated to the accident.

Proving Damages

To recover fair compensation, you must prove your injuries, the impact on your life, and the extent of your financial losses. Without proper documentation, your claim may be undervalued.

Legal Grey Areas

Rideshare companies classify drivers as independent contractors, which can limit the company’s liability. An attorney will know how to work within these legal grey areas to build a strong case.

What to Avoid After a Rideshare Accident

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do if you’re injured in a rideshare accident. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Do not admit fault at the scene
• Do not delay medical treatment
• Do not give recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal guidance
• Do not accept a settlement offer too quickly—especially without understanding your long-term needs
• Do not post about the accident on social media

These missteps can seriously weaken your case and reduce your chances of receiving full compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?

Generally, it’s difficult to sue rideshare companies directly because their drivers are classified as independent contractors. However, their $1 million insurance policy typically covers accidents when a driver is transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up.

What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, Uber and Lyft both offer UM/UIM coverage, which may help pay for your injuries.

How long do I have to file a claim in Nevada?

Nevada’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long can result in your claim being dismissed.

Injured in a Las Vegas Rideshare Accident? Contact Miller Personal Injury Attorneys Today

Knowing what to do if you’re injured in a rideshare accident can help you take control of a stressful and confusing situation. From gathering evidence and seeking medical care to navigating complex insurance policies and negotiating compensation—every step matters.

At Miller Personal Injury Attorneys, we’ve helped countless clients in Las Vegas hold rideshare drivers and companies accountable for negligent behavior. Our team has the experience, resources, and dedication needed to handle your case from start to finish.

Don’t leave your recovery to chance. Call Miller Personal Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation and get the compensation you deserve.