Minnesota Passenger, Rideshare & Limo Crash Lawyers
Injured as a passenger in a car, Uber/Lyft, taxi, shuttle, or limousine in Minnesota? This guide explains how fault and insurance typically work for passengers under Minnesota law, including no-fault (PIP) benefits and potential claims against at-fault parties.
Free case review: Contact us to learn your options.
We represent passengers hurt in Minnesota motor vehicle crashes, including rideshares (Uber/Lyft), limousines, taxis, shuttles, and non-emergency medical transport. We also assist families with wrongful death claims arising from these collisions.
Passenger Rights Under Minnesota Law
Comparative fault. Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault rule. A claimant’s damages are reduced by their percentage of fault, and recovery is barred only if the claimant’s fault is greater than that of the party (or parties) from whom they seek recovery. See Minn. Stat. § 604.01. Passengers often have little or no comparative fault, but the facts of each crash control.
No-fault (PIP) benefits. Minnesota’s No-Fault Automobile Insurance Act provides basic economic loss benefits—such as medical expenses, wage loss, and replacement services—payable without regard to fault. See Minn. Stat. ch. 65B (including § 65B.44 and § 65B.46). Additional claims may be pursued against negligent drivers or other at-fault parties for losses not covered by no-fault.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) Coverage Basics
Minnesota law requires specific insurance for transportation network company (TNC) operations, and the required coverage varies by the driver’s app status (e.g., app on and available, or engaged in a prearranged ride). When a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, higher liability limits apply than when the app is on but no ride is accepted. If a personal auto policy excludes TNC activity, the TNC-related coverage required by statute addresses those periods to meet Minnesota’s minimums. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.472.
Limo, Taxi, and Shuttle Crashes
Commercial passenger carriers operating in Minnesota must comply with state safety rules and maintain financial responsibility that meets or exceeds statutory minimums for their vehicle type and operations. Depending on the facts, liability may involve the driver, the operating company, a maintenance contractor, a vehicle or parts manufacturer, or others. See Minn. Stat. ch. 221 (motor carriers) and general insurance requirements for vehicle owners/operators at Minn. Stat. § 65B.48.
Potential Compensation
Depending on your case, recoverable damages may include medical expenses, wage loss, replacement services, out-of-pocket costs, pain and suffering, permanent injury or disability, disfigurement, and in fatal cases, wrongful death damages permitted by Minnesota law.
Our Investigation Process
- Obtain police reports, 911 audio, dashcam/surveillance video, and event data recorder information
- Request vehicle inspection and maintenance records and, when applicable, app or telematics data from rideshare companies
- Interview witnesses and work with accident reconstruction and human factors experts
- Analyze insurance layers (no-fault, liability, UM/UIM, commercial coverage) to identify all available coverage
Practical Tips for Passengers
- Do not decline care at the scene if you feel pain or dizziness; prompt documentation supports both health and claims.
- Screenshot ride details and driver profiles before the app session closes.
- Keep all receipts for medical visits, prescriptions, and transportation to appointments.
- Avoid posting about the crash or injuries on social media while your claim is pending.
Passenger Crash Checklist
- Call 911; request police response and medical evaluation.
- Photograph vehicles, license plates, scene landmarks, conditions, visible injuries, app screens, and driver IDs.
- Save rideshare trip receipt and any in-app messages.
- Exchange information with all drivers and note insurance carriers and policy numbers.
- Report the crash in the app (if applicable) and open a no-fault claim with your insurer.
- Decline recorded statements to opposing insurers until you speak with counsel.
- Track medical care, time off work, and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Consult a Minnesota attorney promptly about deadlines.
Dealing With Insurance
Multiple insurers may be involved: your no-fault carrier, the at-fault driver’s insurer, a TNC insurer, and commercial carriers for limos or shuttles. We provide notice, preserve claims, coordinate benefits, challenge denials, and, when necessary, file suit to compel disclosure and pursue full compensation from all responsible parties.
Deadlines and Notice Requirements
Minnesota imposes time limits for bringing claims and lawsuits, and some claims (for example, those involving certain public entities or special carriers) can include additional notice requirements. Deadlines vary based on claim type, parties, and policy terms. Contact an attorney promptly to preserve your rights.
Why Choose Our Firm
- Minnesota-focused motor vehicle and commercial carrier litigation
- Experience with TNC data, policies, and multi-insurer claims
- Rapid investigation and preservation of electronic evidence
- Contingency fee representation—no fee unless we recover for you (you may be responsible for costs)
FAQ
Do passengers use their own PIP first in Minnesota?
Generally yes. Your own Minnesota no-fault (PIP) coverage is primary for basic economic loss benefits. If you lack PIP, coverage may come from the host vehicle or another applicable policy under Minn. Stat. ch. 65B.
Can I pursue claims against both drivers if they share fault?
Yes. You may assert claims against any negligent party. Fault is allocated under Minnesota’s comparative fault statute, and your recovery is adjusted accordingly.
What if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured?
You may have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims through your policy or applicable commercial policies, including TNC coverage when a ride is in progress.
How long do I have to file?
Limitations periods vary by claim type and parties involved, and some claims have special notice rules. Speak with a Minnesota attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing deadlines.
How are rideshare insurance periods determined?
Coverage depends on app status: app off (personal policy), app on and available (limited TNC coverage), and ride accepted or passenger onboard (higher TNC limits). See Minn. Stat. § 65B.472.
How much will it cost to hire your firm?
We offer contingency fees—no attorney fee unless we recover for you. You may be responsible for case costs.
Free Consultation
If you were hurt as a passenger in a car, Uber/Lyft, taxi, shuttle, or limousine crash in Minnesota, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We will explain your options and next steps.
Legal References
- Minn. Stat. § 604.01 (Comparative fault)
- Minnesota No-Fault Automobile Insurance Act, Minn. Stat. ch. 65B (see, e.g., § 65B.44, § 65B.46)
- Minn. Stat. § 65B.472 (TNC driver coverage requirements)
- Minn. Stat. § 65B.48 (Required insurance for owners/operators)
- Minn. Stat. ch. 221 (Motor carriers; safety and financial responsibility)
Disclaimer (Minnesota): This information is general and not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney–client relationship. Legal outcomes and deadlines depend on specific facts and current Minnesota law. Consult a licensed Minnesota attorney about your situation.