Minnesota Passenger Injuries: Win Your Rideshare Claim

Why rideshare passenger claims are different

Rideshare cases combine traditional Minnesota motor vehicle law with app-based transportation rules and layered commercial insurance. Liability can involve the rideshare driver, another at-fault motorist, or both. Coverage often depends on the driver’s app status at the time of the crash and may include rideshare-provided policies in addition to the driver’s own coverage. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.472.

Who may be liable

Potentially responsible parties can include:

• The rideshare driver, if their negligence caused or contributed to the crash
• Another motorist, if they caused the collision
• Both drivers, where fault is shared
• In limited situations, entities responsible for a hazardous roadway or a defective vehicle component

Minnesota applies comparative fault rules; an injured passenger’s recovery is allowed so long as their fault is not greater than the fault of the person(s) against whom recovery is sought. See Minn. Stat. § 604.01.

Insurance layers that may apply

Minnesota requires transportation network companies (TNCs) to provide specific auto liability coverage that varies by app status—one tier when a driver is logged in and available, and a higher tier once a ride is accepted and while transporting a passenger. See § 65B.472.

Minnesota’s no-fault system also provides Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits for medical expenses and certain economic losses, accessed under statutory priority rules. See § 65B.44 and § 65B.47.

Minnesota no-fault (PIP) benefits for passengers

PIP benefits are available regardless of who caused the crash. Passengers usually first look to their own auto policy; if none, coverage may be available through a resident relative’s policy or the involved vehicle, depending on statutory priority. Benefits commonly include medical expenses and a portion of lost income, subject to statutory limits and coordination rules. See § 65B.44 and § 65B.47.

When you can pursue pain and suffering

To bring a liability claim for non-economic damages in Minnesota, you must meet a statutory threshold such as minimum medical expenses, a specified disability duration, permanent injury, disfigurement, or death. See § 65B.51.

Key steps to protect your claim

• Call 911 and ensure a police report lists all drivers, vehicles, and insurance.
• Screenshot trip details in the app and save ride receipts.
• Get prompt medical care and follow treatment plans.
• Report the crash through the rideshare app and to your insurer to preserve PIP benefits.
• Preserve evidence: photos, video, witness names, and any dashcam footage.
• Avoid recorded statements before speaking with counsel.
• Track expenses, lost wages, and out-of-pocket costs.

Common defenses and how to counter them

Insurers may argue your injuries are minor, preexisting, or unrelated; that thresholds are not met; or that another party is solely responsible. Strong medical documentation, consistent treatment, timely notice, and expert analysis can help counter these defenses. In multi-vehicle rideshare crashes, pursue all potentially liable insurers to avoid coverage gaps.

Evidence that moves the needle

Winning claims are built on:

• Comprehensive medical records, imaging, and provider opinions
• The official crash report
• Rideshare app data and telematics
• Eyewitness statements
• Scene and vehicle photos
• When needed, accident reconstruction or biomechanical analysis

Preserve your phone data and authorize counsel to request platform records early.

Dealing with multiple insurers

Rideshare claims often involve your PIP carrier, the rideshare company’s liability carrier, and other drivers’ insurers. Minnesota law includes priority and coordination rules for no-fault benefits and requires TNC coverage that varies by ride period. Counsel can sequence claims, negotiate tenders, and use app data to confirm the applicable coverage period. See § 65B.47 and § 65B.472.

What compensation can include

Potential compensation may include medical expenses, wage loss, replacement services, and rehabilitation. When thresholds are met, you may also pursue pain and suffering and other non-economic losses. Serious cases can include future medical care and diminished earning capacity supported by expert reports.

Timeline and filing considerations

Minnesota sets deadlines for no-fault benefits and for filing injury lawsuits. The timing varies by claim type and parties. Prompt legal advice helps you comply with notice and filing requirements and avoid missing enforceable deadlines.

How a Minnesota attorney can help

A Minnesota injury lawyer can identify available insurance, meet notice and proof requirements, coordinate PIP and liability claims, preserve and analyze app and telematics data, value your case, and negotiate or litigate against multiple carriers. Early involvement often improves evidence collection and leverage.

FAQ

Does my own PIP apply if I was a rideshare passenger?

Often yes. Under Minnesota’s priority rules, you typically first turn to your own policy; if none, a resident relative’s policy or the involved vehicle may apply. See § 65B.47.

Can I recover pain and suffering?

Yes, if you meet a statutory threshold such as medical expense minimums, disability duration, permanent injury, or disfigurement. See § 65B.51.

What if both drivers share fault?

You may pursue all at-fault parties. Minnesota’s comparative fault law apportions responsibility. See § 604.01.

Should I talk to insurers before I have a lawyer?

Limit your communications to basic claim setup and avoid recorded statements until you speak with an attorney.

Ready to talk? Get a free, no-obligation case review: contact us.

Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change and facts matter. Consult a Minnesota attorney about your specific situation.