Injured Passenger in an Uber? Minnesota Lawyers Can Help
If you were hurt as a passenger in an Uber or other rideshare in Minnesota, you may be entitled to compensation through multiple insurance sources, including the driver’s policy and Uber’s mandatory coverage. This guide explains fault, insurance layers, what to do after a crash, and how a Minnesota attorney can protect your claim. Request a free consultation.
After a Rideshare Crash: First Steps
- Call 911 to report injuries and request police. A crash report helps establish what happened and who was involved.
- Get medical care right away. Tell providers you were in a motor vehicle crash so injuries are documented.
- Gather information: drivers’ names, contact and insurance, license plates, app trip screenshots, and witness contacts.
- Report the crash in the Uber app, but avoid detailed statements about fault.
- Preserve evidence: photos of vehicles, the scene, road conditions, and your injuries; keep medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Speak with a Minnesota injury lawyer before talking to insurers about recorded statements or signing releases.
Who Pays? Understanding Insurance Layers in Minnesota Rideshare Crashes
Minnesota uses a no-fault system for certain benefits. As a rideshare passenger, personal injury protection (PIP) benefits may be available even if you did not cause the crash (see Minn. Stat. § 65B.44; see also the No-Fault Act policy statement at Minn. Stat. § 65B.41).
Minnesota law also requires transportation network companies to carry liability insurance for their drivers, and the coverage varies by the driver’s app status (for example, app on but waiting vs. accepted trip or in progress). See Minn. Stat. § 65B.472.
Which policy pays first can depend on Minnesota’s priority rules—often your own policy or a household member’s policy, the insurer for the vehicle you occupied, and then other available coverage. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.47. The exact order and availability depend on the facts and policy terms.
A Minnesota attorney can help identify the correct coverage period, coordinate benefits across multiple insurers, and pursue claims against any at-fault drivers.
Fault and No-Fault: How They Work Together
No-fault PIP benefits can help pay certain medical expenses and some wage loss after a crash without proving fault (see Minn. Stat. § 65B.44).
You may also bring a claim against an at-fault driver for additional damages (such as pain and suffering and other losses) if Minnesota’s eligibility requirements are met. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.51. Evidence like the police report, eyewitness statements, vehicle data, and scene photos can be critical to determining fault and building a liability claim.
Common Injuries We See in Uber Passenger Cases
- Whiplash and soft-tissue injuries
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries
- Fractures and joint injuries
- Back and neck injuries, including disc herniations
- Cuts, bruising, and airbag-related injuries
- Psychological impacts such as anxiety or PTSD
What Compensation Can Include
Depending on the facts and available insurance, compensation may include medical expenses, rehabilitation, wage loss, diminished earning capacity, replacement services, pain and suffering, and other damages recognized under Minnesota law.
Dealing With Uber and Insurers
- Insurers often ask for recorded statements and medical authorizations quickly. Provide basic claim information but avoid detailed statements until you have legal advice.
- Do not post about the crash on social media.
- Keep all communications, bills, and receipts organized.
- If multiple insurers are involved, a lawyer can coordinate benefits and address coverage disputes.
Tips to Strengthen Your Claim
- See a doctor within 24-48 hours and follow treatment plans; gaps in care can reduce your recovery.
- Turn on date stamps for photos and save original files to cloud storage.
- Keep a short pain and limitations journal to document day-to-day impacts.
- Do not repair or dispose of damaged items until photographed.
- Refer all adjuster calls to your attorney after you hire one.
Passenger Recovery Checklist
- Police report number and officer contact
- Photos/videos of vehicles, scene, and injuries
- Uber trip details and in-app messages
- Medical records, bills, prescriptions, and mileage
- Proof of lost wages or missed work
- Your auto insurance info (if any) and any letters from insurers
Why Work With a Minnesota Attorney
Rideshare claims involve special coverage rules tied to the driver’s app status, layered policies, and potential disputes about who is responsible. A Minnesota attorney can investigate the crash, secure evidence early, identify all insurance, manage deadlines, and negotiate with insurers. If needed, they can file suit to protect your rights.
Free case review: Talk to a Minnesota injury lawyer today.
Frequently Asked Questions
I do not own a car—can I still get PIP?
Possibly. Minnesota’s no-fault priority rules may provide PIP through a household member’s policy or the insurer of the vehicle you occupied, depending on your circumstances. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.47.
What if another driver caused the crash?
You may pursue a claim against the at-fault driver; rideshare coverage may still apply depending on trip status and policy terms. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.472.
What if the Uber driver was uninsured or underinsured?
Rideshare coverage and other policies may provide protection, subject to policy terms and Minnesota law.
Do I have to go to court?
Many claims settle, but filing a lawsuit may be necessary to preserve rights or obtain fair compensation.
How long do I have to file?
Deadlines vary by claim type and policy. Speak with a Minnesota attorney promptly to avoid missing limitations or notice requirements.
Legal References
- Minn. Stat. § 65B.44 (Basic economic loss benefits; PIP)
- Minn. Stat. § 65B.47 (Priority of benefits)
- Minn. Stat. § 65B.51 (Tort liability; thresholds and damages)
- Minn. Stat. § 65B.472 (Transportation network company driver coverage)
- Minn. Stat. § 65B.41 (No-Fault Act policy)
Disclaimer
This blog provides general information about Minnesota rideshare injury claims and is not 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. Last reviewed: August 19, 2025. Contact us to discuss your case.