Who is liable in an Uber or Lyft accident?

Liability in a rideshare accident depends on whether the driver was 'on the app' and driving a passenger. Coverage may come from the rideshare company’s insurance or the individual driver’s policy.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft after an accident?

In most cases, claims for Uber or Lyft accidents are made through their insurance policies rather than suing the company directly. An attorney can help maximize your settlement.

What compensation can I recover after a rideshare accident?

You may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and wrongful death benefits in fatal crashes.

How long do I have to file an Uber or Lyft accident claim in Illinois?

Illinois typically allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For insurance claims, notice should be provided as soon as possible.

Chicago Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer

Name: Phillips Law Offices - Personal Injury Attorneys Chicago
Price range: $

Chicago Rideshare Accident Lawyer – Get the Compensation You Deserve

Injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Chicago? At Phillips Law Offices, we fight for the full compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and more. With a proven record of securing results in complex rideshare cases and recognition across Illinois, our skilled legal team is ready to protect your rights and hold negligent parties accountable—including powerful rideshare corporations. Phillips Law Offices is widely recognized by peers and opponents as one of Chicago’s premier personal injury firms.

Free Consultation | No Fees Unless We Win | Call (312) 598-0917

A Reputation Built on Results, Recognition & Client Trust

Selecting the right attorney after a rideshare accident is crucial. At Phillips Law Offices, our attorneys offer more than 75 years of combined experience in representing injury victims and their families throughout Illinois. From high-stakes rideshare crashes to catastrophic injury claims, we have recovered hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements—and we never stop pursuing justice.

75+ Years of Legal Experience: Our lawyers have deep knowledge of Illinois rideshare laws and litigation strategy, building on decades of success since our firm’s founding by John G. Phillips.
Millions Recovered for Clients: Our results include significant compensation in cases involving Uber, Lyft, other TNCs (Transportation Network Companies), taxis, and private cars.
4.9/5.0 Google Rating from 95+ Clients
10.0 Avvo Rating – Top Rated for Personal Injury
National and Local Honors: Such as Nation’s Top One Percent (NADC), Top 100 Trial Lawyers, America’s Top 100, Leading Lawyers, Expertise.com 2023 Best Wrongful Death Attorneys, and AV Preeminent® from Martindale-Hubbell.

Phillips Law Offices is honored to be active members of the:

These awards and affiliations reflect our ongoing commitment to integrity, justice, and exceptional client service.

How We Help After a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare victims often face severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and complex files involving multiple insurers. At Phillips Law Offices, we move promptly and strategically to safeguard your rights and maximize your compensation under Illinois law.

Here’s what our Chicago rideshare accident lawyers do for you:

Comprehensive Investigation

We immediately investigate your accident—gathering evidence such as ride history, digital records from Uber/Lyft, surveillance footage, police reports, and witness accounts to construct a strong case from day one.

Identifying All Liable Parties

Rideshare cases can be more complicated than standard crashes, with potential liability split among the driver, Uber/Lyft, third-party motorists, or uninsured/underinsured entities. We identify all responsible parties and insurance policies, leaving no source of compensation untapped.

In-Depth Knowledge of Rideshare and Illinois Law

Our attorneys understand the unique insurance frameworks, laws, and city regulations that govern Uber and Lyft accidents. We expose policy gaps, insurance denials, and violations that could affect your claim.

Dealing with Insurance and Rideshare Companies

Uber and Lyft have large insurers with aggressive legal teams working to minimize payouts. We handle all negotiations and protect you from pressure tactics and lowball settlement offers.

Cases Involving Serious or Catastrophic Injuries

Rideshare collisions often result in severe trauma, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or long-term disability. Our team works with top medical and financial experts to document your injuries and calculate the true impact on your life.

Trial-Ready Advocacy

While many cases settle, we prepare every claim for court. Our reputation as experienced, aggressive trial lawyers strengthens your case during negotiations with rideshare companies and their insurers.

We are dedicated to delivering every client the focused attention and skilled representation they need. With Phillips Law Offices, you won’t have to face Uber, Lyft, or their teams of lawyers on your own.

Types of Rideshare Accidents We Handle

Rideshare accidents have risen sharply in Chicago and across the state with the explosion of Uber and Lyft services. We represent clients in a broad range of rideshare crash scenarios, including:

Passenger Injuries:
If you were riding in an Uber or Lyft and got hurt during the trip, no matter who caused the accident, this type of case applies. We help passengers get compensation for their injuries.
Accidents With Third-Party Drivers:
Sometimes a rideshare car crashes into another car, bicycle, or pedestrian. When this happens, we make sure the responsible driver or parties are held accountable and that you receive the money you deserve.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Injuries:
If you were walking or riding a bike and were hit by a rideshare driver while on the street or getting in or out of the car, this type of accident fits your situation. We can help you get compensation for your injuries.
App-On and App-Off Collisions:
Rideshare drivers are only covered by certain insurance when their app is on (looking for or carrying passengers) or off. If you were in an accident while the driver’s app status was unclear, we handle the complicated coverage and insurance issues to protect your rights.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claims:
If the rideshare driver or another driver in the accident doesn’t have enough insurance (or any insurance), you might have trouble getting paid for your injuries. We can help you navigate these difficult cases and find ways to get compensation.
Multi-Vehicle Crashes:
Sometimes, more than two vehicles are involved in a crash, including a rideshare car. These cases can be complex because liability and insurance coverage must be sorted out carefully. We have the experience to handle these complicated accidents and fight for your full recovery.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Chicago

Understanding accident causes is crucial to establishing fault and pursuing compensation. Rideshare accidents frequently stem from:

Distracted Driving

Rideshare drivers often have to use their phones or apps to get ride requests, navigate routes, or talk to passengers. This means their attention is taken away from the road, making accidents more likely because they might not notice what’s happening around them.

Fatigue

Many rideshare drivers work long hours or late nights to earn more money. Being very tired slows down their reactions and makes it harder to focus, which can cause crashes.

Speeding and Unsafe Driving

Some drivers feel pressure to finish trips quickly or meet goals, so they might drive too fast, run red lights, or make sudden lane changes. These risky behaviors often lead to accidents.

Impaired Driving

Occasionally, a rideshare driver may operate the vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which seriously affects their ability to drive safely and increases the chance of an accident.

Inexperience or Poor Training

Not all rideshare drivers have lots of driving experience or have been trained well to deal with busy city streets. This lack of skills can cause mistakes that lead to accidents, like misjudging distances or failing to signal properly.

Improper Pickups and Drop-offs

Sometimes rideshare drivers pick up or drop off passengers in unsafe spots, such as blocking traffic lanes or intersections. This can create dangerous situations that cause crashes.

Insurance and Coverage Issues

Because rideshare driving mixes personal and commercial insurance, confusion or gaps in coverage can delay claims or complicate who pays for damages after an accident.

According to the City of Chicago and national data, rideshare vehicles are disproportionately represented in certain types of urban accidents, especially during high-demand times and in dense downtown neighborhoods.

Compensation You Can Recover After a Rideshare Accident

A serious Uber or Lyft accident may leave you facing massive medical bills and uncertain income. At Phillips Law Offices, we fight for complete and fair compensation covering:

Medical Expenses: This covers all the costs of your medical care after the accident. It includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medicine, physical therapy, and any future treatment you might need to get better.
Lost Wages and Earning Ability: If your injuries make you miss work, this compensation pays for the money you lose while you are recovering. It also helps if you can’t work as much or in the same job as before because of lasting effects from the accident.
Pain and Suffering: This is money for the physical pain and emotional stress you go through because of the accident. It covers things like chronic pain, anxiety, depression, or any mental suffering caused by your injuries.
Property Damage: If your car, bike, or any personal item was damaged in the crash, you can get money to repair or replace those things.
Permanent Disability or Scarring: If the accident caused lasting disabilities or visible scars, you might get extra compensation for how these changes affect your life every day.
Wrongful Death: If a loved one died in a rideshare accident, their family may receive compensation for funeral costs, the loss of financial support, and the emotional loss of having that person around.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents in Chicago

Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from clients. If you don’t see your question here, don’t hesitate to reach out—our attorneys are available to help.

What should I do immediately after an Uber or Lyft crash?

Call 911 and get medical treatment.
Gather evidence: photos, ride details, contact information.

Don’t discuss fault; speak to a lawyer before talking to insurers.

How are rideshare accidents different from regular crashes?

They involve multiple potential insurers and unique legal issues. Uber and Lyft have layered coverage that may apply differently depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

Can I recover damages if partially at fault?

Yes. Illinois’ modified comparative fault rule lets you recover damages if you were less than 50% responsible, but the award is reduced by your level of fault.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Generally, two years from the accident date, but time may be shorter in some instances. Act quickly to preserve all options.

What does it cost to hire a rideshare attorney?

We work on contingency: You pay nothing unless we win.

What if the Uber or Lyft driver was uninsured or a hit-and-run occurs?

We understand the insurance gaps and have recovered compensation in complex situations involving uninsured/underinsured coverage and phantom drivers.

Client Reviews & Case Results

Over the years, Phillips Law Offices has helped many people hurt in Uber and Lyft accidents. We have won large settlements and verdicts that have helped our clients pay for their medical care and rebuild their lives. Our results show our commitment to getting justice for accident victims.

Clients often tell us how much they appreciate our care and dedication. We are proud of the positive feedback and the trust our clients place in us. Their stories inspire us to keep working hard for every person who walks through our doors.

We are happy to share examples of our past successes and testimonials from people we have helped. This can give you confidence that you are choosing the right team for your case.

Our Process: What to Expect When You Work With Phillips Law Offices

Free Case Evaluation: First, we meet with you for free to listen to your story and answer your questions. We check if your case has a chance to win, and you don’t have to pay anything or make any promises at this stage.
Powerful Investigation: If you decide to work with us, we get to work right away. We collect all important information like police reports, witness statements, videos, and expert opinions to build the strongest case possible.
Identifying All Liable Parties: We find out all the people or companies who might be responsible for your accident, not just the driver. This helps make sure you get all the money you deserve from everyone at fault.
Claim Preparation & Negotiation: We organize all proof about your injuries, costs, and how the accident affected your life. Then, we talk to the insurance companies and fight for a fair settlement that truly covers your needs.
Trial-Ready Advocacy: Even if most cases settle before court, we prepare your case as if it will go to trial. This helps us be stronger when negotiating and shows insurance companies we’re ready to fight for you.
Client Support: Throughout every step, we keep you updated and answer all your questions. We want you to feel supported, informed, and confident while we handle the legal work on your behalf.

Meet Our Team of Chicago Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Stephen D. Phillips

Stephen D. Phillips is the managing partner at Phillips Law Offices in Chicago, widely recognized for his expertise in personal injury and wrongful death cases, including complex rideshare accident claims involving Uber and Lyft. With over 40 years of experience, he has secured record verdicts and multi-million-dollar settlements for clients throughout Illinois. Stephen is a former President of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and a member of prestigious organizations such as the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. He is known for his skillful trial advocacy and deep commitment to helping injury victims recover the compensation they deserve.

Stephen earned his law degree from Loyola University Chicago and his undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa. He has served as an adjunct professor at Loyola Law School and has published extensively on personal injury and tort reform topics. Stephen holds an AV Preeminent rating for legal ability and ethics and has been repeatedly named among America’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers. His practice focuses heavily on catastrophic injuries from automobile, truck, and rideshare accidents, ensuring clients receive the strongest representation in their cases.

Terrence M. Quinn

Terrence M. Quinn is a partner at Phillips Law Offices known for his dedication to securing fair compensation for victims of serious accidents, including Uber and Lyft rideshare crashes in Chicago. Since joining the firm in 2001, Terry has obtained record multi-million dollar settlements and jury verdicts, handling complex litigation involving personal injuries and wrongful death claims. He is praised for his thorough preparation, powerful advocacy, and deep knowledge of trucking and rideshare negligence cases.

Terry’s legal expertise extends across automobile and trucking negligence, product liability, and medical malpractice. He is an active member of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association Board of Managers and other professional legal organizations. His commitment to client service and results-driven approach makes him a trusted advocate for injured victims and their families in rideshare accident cases throughout Illinois.

Stephen J. Phillips

Stephen J. Phillips is a partner at Phillips Law Offices and a third-generation trial lawyer who excels in handling high-stakes personal injury cases, including Uber and Lyft rideshare accidents in Chicago. He has achieved multiple record-setting settlements, including multi-million-dollar outcomes, with a focus on catastrophic injury and complex litigation against negligent parties. Stephen is recognized as one of the Top 40 under 40 Trial Lawyers in the U.S., reflecting his skill, dedication, and rising leadership in the legal community.

Stephen combines extensive knowledge of Illinois personal injury law with aggressive trial experience to protect the rights of rideshare accident victims. His commitment to justice ensures that clients receive comprehensive support and maximum compensation after life-altering crashes. As a key member of Phillips Law Offices, Stephen J. Phillips continues to fight for fair outcomes for injured clients across Chicago and the state of Illinois.

Speak to a Top-Rated Chicago Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

If you or someone you care about has been hurt or lost a family member in an Uber or Lyft accident, you don’t have to go through this by yourself. Phillips Law Offices can look over your case, help you understand your rights, and support you in getting the justice and compensation you deserve. You won’t pay any fees unless we win your case.

Schedule a Free Consultation
Call (312) 598-0917 or fill out our online contact form. We serve clients throughout Chicago, Cook County, belvidere and all of Illinois—and can meet at your convenience, in person, by phone, or video.

With Phillips Law Offices, you get experience, compassion, and a relentless commitment to standing up to the largest rideshare companies—and winning for injury victims just like you.