Who Can You Sue After a Rideshare Accident in Illinois?

 Posted on April 27, 2026 in Personal Injury

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed how people get around. Whether you are heading to a night out or just need a lift across town, these apps are part of daily life in 2026. But crashes happen more often than many riders expect. A recent study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that about one in three rideshare drivers surveyed reported being involved in a work-related crash. When a rideshare driver causes an accident, getting compensation can be more complex than after a typical car crash. A Lombard personal injury attorney can help you understand who is responsible and how Illinois law protects you.

What Does Illinois Law Say About Rideshare Insurance Requirements?

Illinois regulates rideshare companies under the Transportation Network Providers Act (625 ILCS 57). The law sets up a three-phase insurance structure based on what the driver is doing at the time of the crash.

If the app is off, the driver's personal auto insurance applies. The rideshare company's policy does not cover this period. If the app is on and the driver is waiting for a ride request, the driver or the company must carry at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per incident in liability coverage, plus $25,000 for property damage.

If the driver has accepted a ride or a ride is in progress, the rideshare company must provide at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage during an active ride, including while transporting passengers. Additional uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may also apply, depending on the policy.

The phase active at the time of your crash determines which policy applies and how much coverage is available to you.

Who Is Liable When a Rideshare Driver Causes an Accident in Illinois?

Several parties may share responsibility, including:

• The rideshare driver, if their negligence caused the crash, such as speeding, running a red light, or distracted driving
• The rideshare company, through its insurance policy, depending on which app phase applies
• Another driver, if a third party contributed to the collision
• A vehicle manufacturer, if a defective part played a role

Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. You can still recover compensation if you were partly at fault, as long as your share of blame is 50 percent or less. If you are partly responsible, your payout is reduced by that percentage.

What Compensation Can Rideshare Accident Victims Recover in Illinois?

Injured victims may be able to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent disability or disfigurement, and property damage. The amount depends on the severity of your injuries and the insurance available. In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit, although shorter deadlines may apply if a government vehicle or public agency was involved.

Does It Matter Whether You Were a Passenger, Pedestrian, or Driver in an Illinois Rideshare Accident?

Your legal options differ depending on your role in the accident. If you were a passenger, you were almost certainly not at fault. You can file a claim against the rideshare company's insurer, the other driver's insurer, or both.

If you were driving another vehicle and were struck by a rideshare driver, you can pursue a claim against the driver and the company's insurance. The key is figuring out which insurance phase was in effect when the crash happened.

If you were a pedestrian or cyclist, the same rules apply. Under Illinois law, drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks under 625 ILCS 5/11-1002. Failing to do so can support a negligence claim.

What Should You Do After a Rideshare Accident in Illinois?

The steps you take right after a crash can affect the strength of your claim. If you are able to do so safely, consider the following:

• Call 911 and get a police report.
• Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and any visible injuries.
• Screenshot the rideshare app to capture the trip details, driver name, and time of the crash.
• Get contact information from the driver and any witnesses.
• Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine.
• Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney.

The sooner you take these steps, the stronger your claim is likely to be.

Contact Our Lombard, IL Personal Injury Attorneys for a Free Case Evaluation

If you were hurt in a rideshare accident, the team at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices is ready to help you understand your options. With three office locations in Lombard, Bloomingdale, and Naperville, we make it easy to get the guidance you need close to home. We offer free case evaluations and flexible scheduling, including Saturday and evening appointments. Contact our Bloomingdale, IL motor vehicle accident lawyers today. Call 630-932-9100 for a free consultation.