Lyft provides insurance coverage for accidents involving its drivers, but coverage limits and availability depend on the driver's status within the app at the moment of the accident. Understanding Lyft's coverage structure helps accident victims identify which insurance applies to their claim.

Lyft's Coverage Periods

Like other rideshare companies, Lyft divides coverage into periods based on driver activity:

Driver Offline

When a driver's Lyft app is off, Lyft provides no insurance coverage. Any accident is covered only by the driver's personal auto policy.

Driver Mode On, Awaiting Match

When the app is on and the driver is waiting for a ride request, Lyft provides contingent liability coverage:

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

This coverage activates only if the driver's personal insurance denies the claim or doesn't fully cover damages.

En Route to Passenger and During Ride

From the moment a driver accepts a ride through passenger drop-off, Lyft provides full commercial coverage:

  • $1 million liability coverage
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage up to $1 million
  • Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (subject to deductible)

Key Differences from Uber

While Lyft and Uber coverage structures are similar, some differences exist:

Claims process: Lyft uses different insurance carriers and claims procedures than Uber. Claim processing times and settlement practices may vary.

Driver requirements: Insurance requirements for drivers may differ slightly between platforms, affecting what personal coverage exists as backup.

Regional variations: Coverage may vary by state based on local regulations and insurance requirements.

Filing a Lyft Insurance Claim

To file a claim with Lyft's insurance:

Report through the app using Lyft's accident reporting feature to create an official record with the company.

Document the accident with photos, witness information, and police reports before leaving the scene.

Contact Lyft's insurance carrier directly once you receive claim information. Lyft uses different carriers in different regions.

Preserve ride information including receipts, trip history, and any communication with the driver.

When Lyft's Insurance May Not Apply

Coverage gaps exist in several situations:

Intentional acts by drivers are excluded from coverage.

Vehicle maintenance issues causing accidents may involve disputes about driver versus company responsibility.

Independent contractor status means Lyft may disclaim responsibility for certain driver conduct.

Protecting Your Claim

Accident victims should document the driver's Lyft status, preserve all ride information, and consult with an attorney experienced in rideshare accidents to ensure all available coverage is identified and pursued.