Rideshare Accident Insurance Claims: What Cyclists and Pedestrians Need to Know
By Bert McDowell Injury Law – Fighting for Justice Across Connecticut
Getting hit by a car is traumatic. Getting hit by an Uber or Lyft driver while walking or biking? That’s even more complex. Now you’re not only dealing with injuries—you’re trying to figure out who pays, what kind of insurance coverage applies, and whether Uber or Lyft is liable for your medical bills.
At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we believe injured cyclists and pedestrians deserve real answers, fast. Here’s your no-nonsense guide to rideshare accident insurance claims and what to do if you’re hit by a rideshare driver in Connecticut.
📞 Call (475) 529-2634 for a free consultation
📍 Serving Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford & across Connecticut
🚗 What Happens When a Rideshare Driver Hits You?
Services like Uber and Lyft have reshaped transportation. But they’ve also added legal headaches when things go wrong—especially for vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians.
Here’s the legal twist: insurance coverage depends entirely on what the driver was doing at the moment of the crash. This is known as the “rideshare activity period,” and it determines what insurance policy will cover your claim.
🧾 Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage Periods
Uber and Lyft break their insurance coverage into three periods:
✅ Period 0 – App Off
✅ Period 1 – App On, Waiting for a Ride
✅ Period 2 & 3 – En Route or With Passenger
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Driver is picking up or transporting a passenger.
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Uber/Lyft provides up to $1 million in liability coverage.
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Also includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
🔑 Key Tip: If you’re hit while the driver is in Period 2 or 3, you may be covered under Uber or Lyft’s $1 million policy.
🚨 Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
Being hit by a vehicle while walking or biking is overwhelming—but what you do next matters for your health and your claim.
1. Call 911 and Get Medical Attention
Even if you feel “okay,” some injuries take hours or days to appear. Medical records also serve as critical evidence.
2. Report the Crash to the Police
Make sure the officer documents:
3. Collect Information
Gather:
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Driver’s name and license plate
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Whether they were using Uber or Lyft
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Screenshots of the app (if possible)
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Witness names and phone numbers
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Photos of the scene, your injuries, damaged bike, or belongings
4. Contact the Rideshare Company
Both Uber and Lyft have in-app options or online portals to report accidents. Do this promptly.
5. Speak to an Experienced Rideshare Injury Lawyer
We can help you deal with insurance companies, determine liability, and fight for maximum compensation.
📞 Call Bert McDowell Injury Law now at (475) 529-2634
🧑💼 Free consultation | No legal fees unless we win
💰 What Damages Can You Recover?
If you’ve been injured by a rideshare driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:
In severe cases, you may also qualify for punitive damages if the driver was grossly negligent (e.g., driving drunk, texting, or speeding).
❌ Common Issues in Rideshare Accident Insurance Claims
Rideshare claims are more complicated than standard car accidents. Here’s why:
Insurance adjusters may try to blame you for the crash. Having an attorney ensures someone is fighting for your side of the story.
Delayed or Denied Claims
Uber and Lyft use third-party insurers trained to reduce payouts. Don’t accept a quick offer without legal advice.
You could be dealing with three policies: the driver’s personal insurance, Uber/Lyft’s coverage, and your own uninsured motorist protection.
👨⚖️ Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer for Rideshare Accidents
At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we don’t just handle injury claims—we dig deep. We investigate, negotiate, and litigate if necessary. And we know how to hold rideshare giants accountable.
We Help You:
Let us do the heavy lifting while you focus on recovery.
Conclusion: Know Your Rights. Demand Accountability.
Being hit by a rideshare driver as a cyclist or pedestrian is more than a painful experience—it’s a legal battle waiting to unfold. But you’re not alone. Whether the driver was careless, distracted, or speeding to pick up their next fare, you have the right to hold them—and potentially the rideshare company—accountable.
At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we believe in real justice for real people. Not settlements that barely cover the bills. Not excuses from corporate giants. Just results.
📞 Call (475) 529-2634 today for a free consultation
💼 No fee unless we win | Serving clients across Connecticut
(203) 690-1030 
