Hurt in a Minnesota Uber/Lyft Minivan? Get Justice
TL;DR: After a rideshare minivan crash in Minnesota, multiple insurance policies may apply, including Minnesota no-fault (PIP) and rideshare coverage that depends on the driver’s app status. Preserve evidence and speak with a Minnesota attorney promptly. Get a free consultation.
Why minivan rideshare crashes are unique
Uber and Lyft minivans often carry more passengers, have different seating configurations, and may involve complex door and visibility issues. When a crash happens, multiple parties and policies can be involved: the rideshare driver, another motorist, the transportation network company’s (TNC) insurer, and your own auto and health coverage. Coordinating claims and preserving evidence early is critical.
How Minnesota rideshare insurance works
Minnesota law requires that specific automobile insurance be in place for transportation network operations, with coverage that varies by the driver’s status in the app. The required coverage can be maintained by the driver, the TNC, or a combination. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.472.
Generally: when the app is off, a driver’s personal auto policy applies; when the app is on and the driver is waiting for a ride, one level of coverage applies; and when a trip is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, a higher level applies. These coverages operate alongside Minnesota’s no-fault personal injury protection (PIP), which can help with certain medical costs and related economic losses regardless of fault. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.44.
Who may be liable
Potentially responsible parties may include:
- The rideshare driver
- Another at-fault driver
- A vehicle owner
- A maintenance or repair shop
- A vehicle or component manufacturer (for defects)
- A municipality or contractor (for roadway hazards)
Liability depends on facts such as app status, traffic laws, vehicle condition, and driver conduct. Evidence like trip records, app screenshots, dashcam video, event data recorder (EDR) downloads, and witness statements can be decisive.
What to do after a rideshare minivan crash
Checklist
- Call 911 and get medical care. Tell providers all symptoms, even if they seem minor.
- Document the scene: photos of all vehicles, interior seating and restraints, door and step areas, license plates, driver profiles in the app, and insurance cards.
- Report the crash in the Uber or Lyft app and to your own insurer. Save all confirmations.
- Do not provide recorded statements or sign releases before speaking with counsel.
- Preserve the vehicle and any car seats or mobility devices if possible. Ask that electronic data and trip logs be preserved.
Practical tips
- Capture app status: Screenshot the driver’s app screen showing online status and trip details.
- Track symptoms: Keep a daily log of pain, limitations, and missed work.
- Keep receipts: Save bills for medical care, rides, and home help to support damages.
- Stay off social media: Posts can be used to challenge your claim.
Minnesota no-fault benefits and additional claims
Minnesota’s no-fault system provides certain benefits regardless of who caused the crash. Depending on the severity of your injuries and applicable legal thresholds, you may also pursue claims against an at-fault party for damages such as pain and suffering, future medical care, and lost earning capacity. The interaction between no-fault, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, and TNC policies can materially affect your recovery. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.44 for basic economic loss benefits.
Common injuries in minivan rideshare collisions
Frequent injuries include whiplash and other soft-tissue trauma, concussions and traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, fractures, shoulder and knee injuries related to seat layout or sliding doors, and psychological trauma. Delayed symptoms are common—follow up with your doctor and follow recommended treatment plans.
How a lawyer can help
We identify all applicable insurance, preserve electronic trip data, coordinate no-fault benefits, evaluate liability, and pursue settlement or litigation. We work with experts in accident reconstruction, human factors, and life-care planning to value your claim and present compelling evidence.
Deadlines matter
Minnesota law sets deadlines that can bar claims if missed. Some notice requirements for certain claims can arise quickly. Because timelines can vary based on the parties involved and the type of claim, speak with an attorney promptly to protect your rights.
What it costs to hire us
We offer free consultations. If we take your case, we typically work on a contingency fee—no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you. Case costs and expenses may be separate and are explained in our fee agreement.
FAQ
Does Uber or Lyft insurance cover me as a passenger?
When a trip is accepted or you are in the vehicle, TNC policies generally provide higher liability coverage and may include uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, subject to policy terms and Minnesota law.
Can I use my own no-fault (PIP) benefits?
Yes. Minnesota no-fault benefits can apply regardless of fault and may coordinate with TNC coverage depending on the facts.
What if the rideshare driver was off the app?
The driver’s personal auto insurance usually applies when the app is off.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer?
As soon as possible. Early preservation of trip data and notice to insurers can affect your claim.
Free case evaluation
If you were hurt in an Uber or Lyft minivan crash anywhere in Minnesota, contact us today. We will review your situation, explain your options, and outline next steps to pursue the compensation you may be entitled to. Request your free case review.
Sources
- Minnesota Statutes § 65B.472 (Transportation network company; insurance)
- Minnesota Statutes § 65B.44 (Basic economic loss benefits)
Disclaimer
This blog is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and deadlines can change and may depend on your specific facts. Consult a Minnesota attorney about your situation.