Springfield Uber Accident Lawyer

Getting into an Uber in Chicago should be simple. You tap the app, a driver shows up, and you get where you need to go. But what happens when that ride ends in a crash? Whether you’re near Millennium Park, heading down Lake Shore Drive, or catching a ride from Springfield Avenue, an Uber accident can turn your day, and your life, upside down. If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident in or around Chicago, you need to understand your rights under Illinois law. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is here to help you every step of the way.

Table of Contents

• Why Uber Accidents Happen in Chicago
• Illinois Law and Uber Insurance Coverage
• What to Do After an Uber Accident in Chicago
• Who Can Be Held Liable in an Illinois Uber Accident?
• Damages You Can Recover After an Uber Accident
• FAQs About Springfield Uber Accident Lawyer in Chicago, IL

Why Uber Accidents Happen in Chicago

Chicago is one of the busiest rideshare markets in the country. With tens of thousands of Uber drivers on the road, the odds of an accident go up. The company holds around 72 percent of Chicago’s ridesharing market share, with tens of thousands of drivers in the area. That’s a lot of vehicles weaving through traffic on the Kennedy Expressway, the Dan Ryan, and crowded downtown streets near the Loop and Wacker Drive.

So why do these crashes happen? The reasons are more common than you might think. One-third of ride-share drivers surveyed in a new study reported being involved in a crash while working. Using a cellphone, driving while tired, or driving on unfamiliar roads increased the likelihood of a crash. Think about that for a moment. A driver picking you up from the United Center or dropping you off near Navy Pier may be exhausted, distracted, or lost.

Distraction is a major problem. Rideshare drivers are often distracted by their phones, as they rely on apps to receive ride requests, navigate routes, and communicate with passengers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents in the U.S. The nature of rideshare driving increases the likelihood of distractions, as drivers are constantly checking their phones for directions and ride updates.

Fatigue is another real concern. Uber and Lyft drivers frequently work long hours to maximize their income, leading to fatigue. Fatigued driving is a serious problem, as tired drivers may have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the likelihood of a crash. Add in Chicago’s unpredictable weather, heavy congestion around O’Hare Airport, and the constant stop-and-go near the Magnificent Mile, and you have a recipe for serious accidents.

Speed and reckless behavior also play a role. Many rideshare drivers feel pressure to complete rides quickly, especially during peak hours or when working toward incentives offered by the rideshare companies. This can lead to reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, or making unsafe lane changes. If a driver’s carelessness caused your injuries, you have legal options. Contact a Chicago personal injury lawyer at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg to talk about your case today.

Illinois Law and Uber Insurance Coverage

One of the most confusing parts of an Uber accident claim is figuring out which insurance applies. Illinois law actually gives you some solid protections here. The Illinois Transportation Network Providers Act went into effect in 2015 to set statewide basic requirements for ridesharing companies and drivers in terms of insurance, safety standards, driver qualifications, and more. The bill applies to ridesharing services, known as Transportation Network Companies (TNC), like Uber and Lyft.

The law creates different coverage tiers based on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. The Illinois Transportation Network Providers Act sets insurance requirements for rideshare drivers working through platforms like Uber and Lyft, and coverage obligations begin the moment a driver logs into the app, not when a passenger enters the vehicle. Requirements split into two phases based on whether the driver is waiting for a ride request or actively transporting a passenger.

Here’s how the coverage breaks down. From the moment a participating TNC driver logs on to the transportation network company’s digital network until the TNC driver accepts a request to transport a passenger, automobile liability insurance shall be in the amount of at least $50,000 for death and personal injury per person, $100,000 for death and personal injury per incident, and $25,000 for property damage.

Once a driver accepts a ride and picks you up, the coverage jumps significantly. From the moment a TNC driver accepts a ride request until the TNC driver completes the transaction or the ride is complete, whichever is later, automobile liability insurance shall be primary and in the amount of $1,000,000 for death, personal injury, and property damage. That $1 million policy is designed to protect you as a passenger.

What if the at-fault driver has no insurance? The Illinois Transportation Network Providers Act requires TNCs to carry uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. As a passenger, you make a claim under this UM/UIM portion of the rideshare company’s policy if the at-fault third-party driver cannot cover your losses. Knowing which coverage applies to your situation is critical. An experienced Uber Accident attorney can review your case and identify every available source of compensation.

What to Do After an Uber Accident in Chicago

The moments after an Uber crash are chaotic. You may be in pain, confused, or unsure what to do next. Taking the right steps early on can protect your health and your legal claim. Here’s what you should do if you’re involved in a rideshare accident anywhere in the Chicago area, from the South Side to the suburbs.

First, call 911. Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-401), any driver involved in a crash that results in personal injury must stop and remain at the scene. The law defines a personal injury as “any injury requiring immediate professional treatment in a medical facility or doctor’s office.” Failure to stop is a Class 4 felony. Failure to report can result in even more serious charges. Make sure the police come and file a report. That report becomes a key piece of evidence in your claim.

Second, get medical attention right away, even if you feel okay. Some injuries, like whiplash or a concussion, don’t show symptoms immediately. A medical record created close in time to the accident is powerful evidence. Don’t skip this step.

Third, document everything you can. Take photos of the vehicles, the road, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. If the crash happened near a landmark like the Chicago Riverwalk or along I-290, note that in your records. Collect the Uber driver’s name, license plate, and insurance information. Screenshot your ride details in the Uber app before they disappear.

Fourth, report the crash to Uber through the app. Keep a copy of any communication you receive from Uber or their insurance carrier.

Fifth, and most importantly, speak with a lawyer before giving any recorded statements to insurance companies. Insurers often try to minimize payouts. A Chicago Uber accident attorney at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg can handle those communications for you and make sure your rights are protected from day one.

Who Can Be Held Liable in an Illinois Uber Accident?

Liability in an Uber accident isn’t always straightforward. Multiple parties may share responsibility, and Illinois law has specific rules about how fault is divided and how damages are paid.

The Uber driver is often the first person you think of. If the driver was speeding, distracted, or driving recklessly, they can be held personally liable for your injuries. But what about Uber itself? Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have historically classified their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This distinction is significant because, traditionally, companies are less likely to be held vicariously liable for the negligence of independent contractors compared to employees. Even so, Uber’s insurance policy still provides coverage during active rides, and the company can face liability under certain circumstances.

Other drivers on the road may also be at fault. If another vehicle ran a red light and hit your Uber near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street, that driver could be the primary liable party. Uber’s safety report shows that other drivers caused 95% of fatal crashes involving an Uber vehicle. This means the at-fault driver’s insurance is often the first place to look for compensation.

Illinois uses a modified comparative fault system. Under this system, you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault, as long as your share of the fault is less than 51 percent. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. Under 735 ILCS 5/2-1117, all defendants found liable are jointly and severally liable for a plaintiff’s past and future medical expenses. Any defendant whose fault is 25 percent or greater of the total fault is jointly and severally liable for all other damages as well. This matters because it affects how much you can recover and from whom.

If you were injured near Pilsen, Wicker Park, or along the North Shore, and your Uber was involved in a multi-vehicle crash, sorting out liability can get complicated fast. Whether you need a Mundelein car accident lawyer or representation anywhere else in the greater Chicago area, Briskman Briskman & Greenberg has the experience to pursue every liable party on your behalf.

Damages You Can Recover After an Uber Accident

If you’ve been hurt in an Uber accident in Springfield, Chicago, or anywhere in Illinois, you may be entitled to significant compensation. The damages available in a personal injury claim cover more than just your medical bills. They are meant to make you whole after someone else’s negligence turned your life upside down.

Economic damages are the out-of-pocket costs you can document. These include current and future medical expenses, lost wages if you missed work while recovering, and costs for physical therapy or rehabilitation. If your injuries are severe, you may need long-term care. All of those costs can be part of your claim.

Non-economic damages cover the less tangible losses. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and the impact on your relationships all fall into this category. These damages can be just as significant, or even more so, than your medical bills.

In some cases, punitive damages may also be available. If the Uber driver’s conduct was especially reckless, such as driving drunk near the lakefront or racing through a school zone on the South Side, a court may award additional damages to punish that behavior and deter others.

Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims under 735 ILCS 5/13-202. That means you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Don’t wait. Evidence fades, witnesses move on, and insurance companies get harder to deal with over time. If you were hurt in a crash near Oak Lawn or another Chicago suburb, reach out to an Oak Lawn car accident lawyer at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg as soon as possible. We can review your case, explain your options, and fight to get you the full compensation you deserve.

You can also find more guidance on staying safe and protecting your rights by visiting our page on tips for rideshare users. Whether you’re a regular Uber rider or a driver who was hurt on the job, our team is ready to help. Reach out to a trusted Uber Accident lawyer at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg today for a free consultation.

FAQs About Springfield Uber Accident Lawyer in Chicago, IL

What should I do immediately after an Uber accident in Chicago?

Call 911 right away and stay at the scene. Illinois law requires all drivers involved in a crash with injuries to remain at the scene and cooperate with police. Get medical attention even if you feel fine. Take photos, screenshot your Uber ride details, and collect contact information from all parties. Then contact a personal injury attorney before speaking with any insurance company. Early legal guidance can make a major difference in the outcome of your claim.

Can I sue Uber directly if their driver caused my injuries?

Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors, which limits direct liability in many cases. However, Uber’s insurance policy provides up to $1 million in coverage during an active ride under Illinois law (625 ILCS 57). You may be able to pursue a claim against the driver personally and against Uber’s insurance policy. The specific facts of your case, including when the crash happened and what the driver was doing at the time, will determine your options. A qualified attorney can review those facts and advise you on the best path forward.

How long do I have to file an Uber accident claim in Illinois?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Illinois under 735 ILCS 5/13-202. Missing this deadline generally means losing your right to compensation. There are some exceptions, such as claims involving government entities or injuries to minors, which may have different time limits. Do not wait to speak with an attorney. The sooner you act, the better your chances of preserving evidence and building a strong claim.

What if the Uber driver’s insurance was not active at the time of the crash?

Illinois law protects you in this situation. Under the Illinois Transportation Network Providers Act (625 ILCS 57), if a TNC driver’s personal insurance has lapsed or does not cover the accident, the transportation network company must step in and provide coverage from the first dollar of the claim. This means you are not left without a source of compensation simply because the driver’s personal policy fell through. An attorney can help you identify and access all available coverage for your injuries.

Does Illinois law cover me if I was hit by an Uber driver while walking or driving my own car?

Yes. Illinois law protects not just Uber passengers, but also pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers who are injured by a rideshare vehicle. If an Uber driver was logged into the app and caused the crash, the TNC’s insurance coverage applies. The amount of coverage depends on what phase the driver was in at the time of the accident, such as waiting for a ride versus actively transporting a passenger. If you were injured in any capacity by an Uber vehicle, you have the right to pursue compensation for your losses.

More Resources About Vehicle Injuries

• Dangerous Roads & Intersections in Springfield
• Springfield Bicycle Accident Lawyer
• Springfield Car Accident Lawyer
• Springfield Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
• Springfield Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
• Springfield Fatal Car Accident Lawyer
• Springfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
• Springfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
• Springfield Truck Accident Attorney
• Springfield Lyft Accident Lawyer
• Springfield Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer