They’re a great team, and they do what’s best for their clients.
I didn't think I would need an attorney after our auto accident until something came up that told me otherwise. Peter and Chase were great and resourceful through it all. They kept us updated with every step along the way as well as clearly explaining what and why. They're a great team, and they do what's best for their clients. I will definitely be recommending this group to those in need!
— V.S.
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Why Clients Choose Our Firm

  • Free, No-Obligation Consultations
  • Decades of Combined Maryland Personal Injury Experience
  • Personalized Legal Strategies for Every Case
  • Proven Record of Successful Recoveries
  • Bilingual Services Available (English & Spanish)
  • Dedicated Client Support from Start to Finish

Understanding How Rideshare Insurance Works in Maryland

Rideshare insurance coverage in Maryland depends on the driver’s activity at the time of the crash. Uber and Lyft maintain tiered policies that activate at different stages of the trip.

Coverage tiers include:

  1. App Off: Only the driver’s personal policy applies.
  2. App On, Waiting for Ride Request: Limited liability coverage (up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident).
  3. Passenger Accepted or On Trip: Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in third-party liability coverage plus UM/UIM protection.

Understanding which stage applied at the time of your accident is essential for filing the correct claim.

Who Determines Fault in a Maryland Rideshare Accident?

Maryland follows an at-fault system, meaning the person who caused the crash is responsible for damages. Police reports, witness statements, and digital trip data from the Uber or Lyft app help establish who is liable.

Because Maryland uses the contributory negligence rule, even slight fault by an injured person may bar recovery. This makes accurate fault determination critical.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Maryland

Many rideshare collisions result from driver negligence or external hazards.

Frequent causes include:

Each factor influences how liability and insurance coverage are evaluated under Maryland law.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Maryland

Your actions after an Uber or Lyft accident can strengthen your claim and protect your health.

Follow these steps immediately:

  1. Call 911 for medical and police assistance.
  2. Photograph the vehicles, injuries, and crash scene.
  3. Exchange insurance and contact information.
  4. Obtain witness details.
  5. Seek prompt medical evaluation.
  6. Report the accident through the rideshare app.
  7. Contact a Maryland rideshare accident attorney.

Quick action helps preserve crucial evidence and ensures compliance with Maryland insurance requirements.

What Injuries Commonly Occur in Maryland Rideshare Accidents?

Rideshare crashes can cause serious physical and emotional harm.

Common injuries include:

Proper medical care and documentation are essential for both recovery and your legal claim.

Compensation Available in a Maryland Rideshare Accident Claim

Injured victims may recover economic and non-economic damages depending on the severity of their losses.

Available compensation may include:

  • Medical Expenses and Ongoing Treatment Costs
  • Lost Income and Reduced Earning Capacity
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Emotional Distress
  • Property Damage
  • Loss of Consortium

An attorney can help assess total damages and pursue maximum compensation under Maryland’s personal injury laws.

How Long Does It Take to Settle a Rideshare Accident Claim?

The timeline for settlement in Maryland varies based on medical treatment duration, insurer cooperation, and liability disputes. Simple claims may resolve in a few months, while complex cases involving serious injuries or multiple parties can take longer. Settling too early may limit your compensation if future medical costs are not yet known.

What Evidence Helps Strengthen a Maryland Rideshare Claim?

Strong documentation improves the outcome of a rideshare injury case.

Important evidence includes:

  • Police and accident reports
  • Photographs and dashcam footage
  • Medical records and treatment summaries
  • Uber or Lyft app trip data
  • Witness statements
  • Proof of lost wages and expenses

Preserving this information ensures your attorney can present a complete and persuasive claim.

Contact Our Maryland Rideshare Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident anywhere in Maryland, the rideshare accident attorneys at McGowan & Cecil, LLC are here to help. We handle every part of your case—from insurance communications to courtroom representation—so you can focus on recovery. Call today for your free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue justice and fair compensation.

McGowan & Cecil, LLC is based in Laurel, Maryland, and proudly serves clients throughout Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and Montgomery County.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for injuries in a rideshare accident?

Responsibility depends on who caused the crash and whether the rideshare driver was logged into the app. If the driver was working, Uber or Lyft’s $1 million liability coverage may apply.

What happens if the Uber or Lyft driver is off duty?

If the driver was not using the rideshare app at the time of the crash, their personal insurance applies. Rideshare company coverage begins only when the app is active.

Does Uber or Lyft insurance cover passengers in Maryland?

Yes. When passengers are injured during a trip, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage for medical costs and property damage.

What if the at-fault driver flees the scene?

If a hit-and-run occurs, victims can seek compensation through Uber or Lyft’s uninsured motorist policy, which covers injuries caused by unidentified drivers.

Should you report the accident to your own insurance company?

Yes. Notify your insurer promptly, but avoid detailed or recorded statements until you have consulted an attorney familiar with Maryland’s insurance regulations.