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Hoxie Law
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Personal Injury Attorney

Phoenix
Rideshare Accident Lawyer

People Over Cases

Rideshare Accidents in Phoenix

Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation across the Phoenix metro area, but the rapid growth of rideshare services has also created a new category of accident claims. Whether you were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, another driver struck by a rideshare car, or a pedestrian hit by one, these cases involve layered insurance policies and complex liability questions that standard car accident claims do not.

Joseph Hoxie personally handles every rideshare accident case at Hoxie Law. You get direct access to your attorney - not a call center.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Layers

The insurance coverage available in a rideshare accident depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft maintain tiered insurance policies:

  • App off: The driver's personal auto insurance applies. The rideshare company provides no coverage.
  • App on, waiting for a ride request: The rideshare company typically provides limited liability coverage.
  • En route to pick up a passenger or during a trip: The rideshare company's $1 million commercial liability policy generally applies.

Determining which tier applies at the moment of the crash is a factual question that requires careful investigation. The rideshare company, the driver, and their respective insurers may all point fingers at each other to avoid paying your claim.

Who Can File a Rideshare Accident Claim?

  • Rideshare passengers - injured while riding in an Uber or Lyft vehicle
  • Other drivers - struck by a rideshare vehicle while driving their own car
  • Pedestrians and cyclists - hit by a rideshare vehicle
  • Rideshare drivers - injured by another negligent driver while working

Arizona Law & Rideshare Claims

Arizona has enacted legislation governing transportation network companies (TNCs) that sets minimum insurance requirements for rideshare drivers and companies. Key legal considerations include:

  • Statute of limitations: You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (A.R.S. § 12-542).
  • Comparative negligence: Arizona's pure comparative fault rule may reduce but will not eliminate your recovery if you were partially at fault.
  • TNC regulations: Arizona law requires TNCs to maintain specific insurance coverage amounts during each phase of driver activity.

Rideshare companies have large legal departments dedicated to minimizing their liability. You need an attorney who will fight for your interests against these corporate teams.

There is no fee unless we win. Call or text Joseph directly at (480) 896-1040.

Practice Areas

Car Accidents Truck Accidents Motorcycle Accidents Rideshare Accidents Slip & Fall Wrongful Death Pedestrian Accidents Hit & Run Autonomous Vehicle Medical Malpractice
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Rideshare Accidents

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is liable if I am injured in an Uber or Lyft accident?
Liability depends on who caused the accident and what the rideshare driver was doing at the time. The at-fault driver, the rideshare company, and multiple insurance policies may all be involved. Rideshare companies maintain tiered insurance coverage that changes based on whether the driver had the app on, was en route to a pickup, or was actively transporting a passenger.
What insurance covers a rideshare accident?
Coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. When the app is off, only personal insurance applies. When the app is on but waiting, limited rideshare coverage kicks in. When en route or during a trip, the company’s commercial policy - typically up to $1 million - generally applies.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
Rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, which can complicate direct liability claims. However, the company’s insurance policies are available during active trips, and there may be circumstances where the company bears direct responsibility. An attorney experienced in rideshare cases can identify the best path to maximum recovery.
What should I do after a rideshare accident in Phoenix?
Call 911, document the scene with photos and video, and get the rideshare driver’s name and vehicle information. Take a screenshot of your ride details in the Uber or Lyft app. Get witness contact information. Report the accident through the rideshare app. Seek medical attention immediately and contact an attorney before giving any recorded statements.
I was a passenger in an Uber that was hit - who pays for my injuries?
As a passenger, you are in the strongest position because you bear no fault for the driving. If the rideshare driver was at fault, the company’s commercial insurance policy applies. If another driver caused the crash, you can claim against that driver’s insurance. In either case, the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may also be available.
What if the rideshare driver does not have enough personal insurance?
This is common because rideshare drivers’ personal auto policies often exclude commercial activity. However, if the driver had the app active at the time of the crash, the rideshare company’s tiered insurance should provide coverage. An attorney can determine which policies apply and fight for the maximum available coverage.
How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in Arizona?
Arizona’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident (A.R.S. § 12-542). However, rideshare companies may have their own reporting deadlines that affect insurance coverage, so it is important to act quickly.
Does it matter if the Uber or Lyft driver was using their phone?
Yes. If the rideshare driver was distracted by their phone - checking the app, texting, or navigating - this is evidence of negligence. App data and phone records can be subpoenaed to prove distracted driving. This evidence can significantly strengthen your claim.

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