Suing the Uber Driver After a Wreck

Allen Ritchie • March 3, 2025

Question: An Uber or Lyft accident. Is it like being a passenger in a friend’s car?

JASON: Not in Alabama. Plus, getting you paid can be complex, and you may need a lawyer to figure it out.

Here is the big difference: You are dealing with a business, not an individual.

The good news is that our state requires rideshare companies to carry $1 million in insurance coverage. The bad news is that this coverage is applicable only under certain circumstances.

When there is an accident, you can go against 3 different groups.

  • Rideshare Company —This might seem the logical place to go, but the driver must be “on duty” for this to apply. Determining whether a driver is “on duty” or “off duty” can be complicated. Additionally, most drivers are classified as independent contractors, which adds another layer of difficulty.
  • Rideshare Driver —You would think that these drivers had commercial drivers insurance, but in my experience, many don’t. So, in an accident, you may be facing the Alabama insurance minimums, which are not very much.
  • Other Driver – If the accident was caused by another driver hitting the car you were in, the rideshare company’s and driver’s insurance will likely not cover your bills.  In fact, they will tell you to try and get it from the person who hit you.

Here is the other big difference in Alabama law. We have what is known as the guest passenger statute. It says if someone gives you a ride and has an accident, you cannot sue them. It was meant to protect good Samaritans who just wanted to help others. This does not apply when you pay for a service. So, because of this exception, we can hold the driver and the company responsible for your medical bills and more.

We help people who are hurt in all types of accidents. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us. The call will cost you nothing. We are proud to be called “the lawyers near me ” in and around Tillmans Corner.

Jason Steele

Personal Injury Attorney in Mobile, AL

Talk to me for free at (251) 666-1212.

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