Uber & Lyft Passenger Injuries in Minneapolis–St. Paul: What Minnesota Riders Need to Know

Why rideshare passenger claims are different

Rideshare trips involve personal vehicles, commercial-style platforms, and layered insurance. As a passenger, you typically did not contribute to the crash, but which policy pays—and how much—depends on the driver’s app status and whether the ride was in progress. Minnesota’s no-fault system also affects medical and wage-loss benefits regardless of fault. See Minnesota Statutes § 65B.44.

Minnesota no-fault (PIP) basics for passengers

Minnesota is a no-fault state. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) provides certain medical and economic benefits without regard to fault. If you own an insured vehicle, your PIP usually applies first even if you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft. If you do not have your own policy, PIP benefits may be available through a resident relative’s policy or, in some situations, from the policy covering the vehicle you occupied, following the statutory order of priority. See Minnesota Statutes § 65B.44 and § 65B.47.

When Uber/Lyft insurance applies

Rideshare companies must provide liability coverage that depends on the driver’s status: app off, app on and waiting for a request, en route to pick up, or carrying a passenger. When the app is off, only the driver’s personal auto policy applies. When the app is on, Uber and Lyft provide contingent or primary liability coverage, with higher limits once a ride is accepted and during the trip. These obligations are established by Minnesota’s Transportation Network Company statute. See Minnesota Statutes § 65B.472.

Who may be responsible for your losses

Potentially responsible parties can include the rideshare driver, another at-fault motorist, vehicle owners, and in some cases parties responsible for road hazards or defective vehicle components. Depending on fault and available coverage, claims may involve liability insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, and medical benefits. See Minnesota Statutes § 65B.49.

Common injuries and documentation

Passengers often report whiplash, concussions, fractures, back and shoulder injuries, and soft-tissue trauma. Seek prompt medical evaluation, follow your treatment plan, and keep copies of app trip receipts, ride details, crash reports, medical bills, and correspondence with insurers. Screenshots of the ride status and driver information can help establish which coverage applies.

Steps to take after a rideshare crash

• Call 911 and get medical care. Report the crash to law enforcement.
• Identify all drivers, vehicles, insurers, and the rideshare platform.
• Preserve evidence: photos, dashcam footage, app screenshots, and witness contacts.
• Notify your auto insurer promptly to preserve no-fault benefits.
• Report the incident in the Uber/Lyft app but avoid detailed fault statements.
• Consult an attorney before giving recorded statements or signing releases.

How fault and compensation are determined in Minnesota

Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault rule: your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault and can be barred if your fault exceeds the opposing party’s. As a passenger, fault is rarely attributed to you, but insurers may still dispute causation or damages. Recoverable damages can include medical expenses, wage loss, replacement services, and non-economic losses where permitted. See Minnesota Statutes § 604.01.

Deadlines and why acting promptly matters

Minnesota law imposes strict deadlines for injury claims and for certain insurance notices. The specific timelines can vary by claim type, the parties involved, and the coverages pursued. Acting early helps preserve evidence and benefits and reduces the risk of missing critical filing or notice requirements.

FAQ

Which insurance pays first if I am a passenger?

Usually your own PIP pays first. If you do not have PIP, priority may shift to a resident relative or the occupied vehicle’s policy under § 65B.47.

Can I make a claim against Uber or Lyft directly?

Claims are typically made against the applicable insurance layer rather than suing the company directly, unless facts support direct liability.

What if the at-fault driver has no insurance?

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply through your policy and/or the rideshare coverage, depending on status and policy terms.

Do I have to give a recorded statement?

You may need to cooperate, but speak with an attorney first to avoid harming your claim.

How long do I have to file?

Deadlines vary. Act quickly to meet notice requirements and preserve your rights.

Why legal help can make a difference

Coordinating PIP, rideshare liability, and UM/UIM in a Transportation Network Company claim can be complex. An attorney can identify all applicable policies, address priority and coverage disputes, document damages, and negotiate with multiple insurers while you focus on recovery.

Ready to talk? Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today: contact us.

Sources

• Minnesota Statutes § 65B.47 (Priority of applicable security) (accessed 2025-08-19)
• Minnesota Statutes § 65B.44 (Basic economic loss benefits) (accessed 2025-08-19)
• Minnesota Statutes § 65B.49 (Insurance policies; coverage) (accessed 2025-08-19)
• Minnesota Statutes § 65B.43 (Definitions under no-fault act) (accessed 2025-08-19)
• Minnesota Statutes § 65B.472 (Transportation network company coverage requirements) (accessed 2025-08-19)
• Minnesota Statutes § 604.01 (Comparative fault) (accessed 2025-08-19)

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws change and outcomes depend on specific facts. Consult a Minnesota attorney about your situation.