Step-by-Step Guide for Passengers Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Seattle (Uber & Lyft)

August 22, 2025

in Rideshare

Step-by-Step Guide for Passengers Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Seattle (Uber & Lyft)

By Brumley Law Firm – Seattle Car Accident Lawyers

Ridesharing is a huge part of transportation in Seattle, especially downtown, South Lake Union, and around Sea-Tac Airport. But what happens if you’re a passenger in an Uber or Lyft that’s involved in a crash? Accidents can leave you injured and confused about who pays for your medical bills.

This step-by-step guide explains what to do after a rideshare accident in Washington so you protect both your health and your legal rights.

Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your safety comes first. Call 911 if anyone is injured.

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) or Washington State Patrol (WSP) should respond and file an official crash report:

This report is critical evidence for your claim.

Step 2: Document the Accident Scene

Take photos of:

  • Vehicle damage
  • Intersection or roadway (I-5, Aurora Avenue, Rainier Ave, etc.)
  • Your visible injuries

Save screenshots of your Uber/Lyft trip details (time, location, driver info).

Step 3: Get Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel “okay,” see a doctor within 24–48 hours.

Many common accident injuries (like whiplash or concussions) have delayed symptoms:

Seattle facilities that can document your injuries include:

Step 4: Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft

Both apps have in-app reporting systems for accidents:

Be factual and brief — do not speculate about fault. Save confirmation of your report for your attorney.

Step 5: Understand Who Pays in Washington

Liability depends on whether the driver was “on the app”:

  • Driver Offline – The driver’s personal insurance applies.
  • Driver Online, Waiting for Ride – Uber/Lyft provide $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage coverage.
    • Uber Insurance Overview: https://www.uber.com/us/en/drive/insurance/
    • Lyft Insurance Overview: https://www.lyft.com/insurance
  • Driver En Route or Passenger in Car – Uber/Lyft’s $1 million liability policy applies.

As a passenger, you are almost always covered under Uber/Lyft’s $1 million policy once your trip has been accepted.

Step 6: Keep a Pain Journal

Record your daily pain levels, activities you can’t do, and emotional impact.

The American Bar Association notes that pain journals help demonstrate the real effect of injuries:

Step 7: Avoid Quick Settlement Offers

Insurance companies may offer early payouts that don’t reflect your long-term medical costs.

Once you accept and sign a release, you generally cannot reopen your case in Washington:

Step 8: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

Rideshare cases are complicated, involving multiple insurers (driver’s insurance, Uber/Lyft coverage, your own policy).

A Seattle car accident attorney can:

  • Obtain police and medical records
  • Preserve app and trip data
  • Negotiate with Uber/Lyft insurers
  • File a lawsuit if necessary

Internal links for readers seeking help:

Key Takeaways

  • As a passenger in a rideshare crash, you are protected under Uber and Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy once a ride is accepted.
  • Immediate medical treatment and documentation are essential.
  • Avoid quick settlements that don’t account for future care.
  • Having a lawyer ensures you get the full compensation you deserve.

Call Brumley Law Firm: (833) 832-2727 — Free consultation.

Schedule Your Free Consultation