Introduction
The convenience of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft has changed how Texans get around—but it’s also introduced new legal complexities when accidents happen. In 2025, Texas enacted new rideshare liability laws, shifting how claims are handled and what rights passengers, drivers, and third parties have after a crash.If you've been injured in a rideshare accident, understanding these new rules could be the difference between fair compensation and a denied claim.
The Big Legal Shift in 2025
Effective January 1, 2025, Texas expanded its Transportation Network Company (TNC) regulations under House Bill 2954, now requiring:- Higher minimum liability limits.
- Full coverage regardless of fault during active ride time.
- Mandatory accident reporting by drivers to both the rideshare company and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
This law applies to Uber, Lyft, and any app-based rideshare company operating in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Rideshare Insurance Tiers Explained
Rideshare insurance still works in three key periods—but the coverage amounts in each tier have changed under the 2025 law:| Period | Driver Status | Insurance Coverage (2025) |
| Period 1 | App on, no ride accepted | $75,000 per person / $150,000 per accident (up from $50k/$100k) |
| Period 2 | Ride accepted, en route | $1 million minimum (no longer includes deductible gap) |
| Period 3 | Rider in car | $1 million liability + new $25k med-pay for passengers |
The new addition of medical payments coverage (med-pay) in Period 3 ensures that injured passengers can seek treatment immediately—even before fault is officially determined.
Common Rideshare Accident Scenarios
You’re a passenger in a rideshare vehicle that crashes.You now have access to the $1M policy and $25k med-pay, regardless of who caused the accident.
You’re hit by an Uber or Lyft as a pedestrian or in another vehicle.
You may still be covered—depending on the driver’s status during the crash.
You’re a rideshare driver hit by someone else.
You’re eligible for rideshare coverage if you were “active” on the app. Otherwise, your personal insurance applies.
Challenges Facing Injury Victims in 2025
Despite the new laws, rideshare companies continue to deny or delay valid claims. Common issues include:- Disputing the driver’s app status at the time of the accident.
- Arguing the driver was an independent contractor (not their employee).
- Delaying payout until all parties are done treating, increasing pressure to settle early.
Texas courts have begun scrutinizing these defense tactics—but without strong legal representation, many victims still walk away with far less than they deserve.
What to Do After a Rideshare Crash
- Call 911 and get medical help. Even minor injuries can become serious later.- Report the accident in the app. Uber and Lyft both require it for coverage to apply.
- Take screenshots of the ride and route. Preserve proof of your trip status.
- Document everything. Photos, witness names, driver info, and your injuries.
- Call a personal injury attorney. We’ll deal with the insurance companies while you recover.
Your Rights as a Passenger
As a rideshare passenger, you are not at fault—even if the rideshare driver caused the accident. You are entitled to:- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term treatment or disability claims
With 2025’s new med-pay requirement, you can now get faster treatment without waiting for insurance investigations.