Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have become part of everyday life in Milwaukee. But when an accident happens, it is assumed that the rideshare company’s insurance will take care of everything. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Rideshare companies often deny claims, leaving injured drivers and passengers feeling frustrated and unsure of what to do next.

At Natasha Misra Law, we know how disruptive this can be. Our rideshare accident lawyers helped clients across Wisconsin navigate denied claims, and we’re here to explain your options and how to move forward.

Why Rideshare Claims Get Denied

Before looking at solutions, it’s important to understand why a rideshare company might reject your claim. Common reasons include:

Disputes Over Fault – If there’s any question about who caused the crash—the rideshare driver, another motorist, or even both—companies may deny coverage.

A Different Policy Applies - If you receive a denial, there may be a different insurance policy that applies to the facts of the particular accident.  

Lack of Documentation – Missing police reports, incomplete medical records, or other gaps in evidence can give insurers an excuse to push back.

Policy Exclusions – Rideshare policies are complicated. Depending on whether the app was on, off, or waiting for a ride, different coverage rules apply.

Understanding the “why” behind a denial helps you and your lawyer identify the next step.

Steps to Take After a Denied Rideshare Claim

A denied claim is not the end of the road. Here’s what you can do:

1. Consult with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer: Talking with an attorney should be one of your first moves. A Milwaukee rideshare accident lawyer can:

Evaluate Your Case – Review the accident details and the denial letter to identify weaknesses in the company’s reasoning.

Sort Our Insurance Coverages - An experienced attorney can look at all available insurance policies and see which apply to the circumstances of the accident.  

Explore Options – From negotiations to filing a lawsuit, your lawyer will help you understand the best path forward.

Build Evidence – Lawyers know what records, statements, and reports are needed to make your case stronger.

2. Review the Denial Letter Carefully: Rideshare companies are required to explain why they’re denying your claim. Look for:

Specific Policy References – Pay attention to the insurance terms they cite.

Requests for More Information – Sometimes a denial isn’t final. Providing additional documentation may change the outcome.

3. Strengthen Your Documentation: A solid paper trail makes it harder for companies to avoid paying:

Accident Reports – Always get an official police report.

Medical Records – Keep detailed documentation of your injuries, treatments, and costs.

Witness Statements – Independent accounts can confirm what happened.

Local Considerations for Milwaukee Riders

Wisconsin uses a fault-based insurance system. That means the driver (or drivers) responsible for the crash must cover damages. In a rideshare accident, this often involves multiple parties: the rideshare driver, another motorist, and the rideshare company itself. Proving fault clearly is one of the most important parts of a successful claim.

Contact Natasha Misra Law and Get a Lawyer Who’s Not Just Another Suit

A denied rideshare claim can leave you feeling like you’ve run out of options. But you don’t have to face Uber, Lyft, or their insurance companies alone. At Natasha Misra Law, we fight for injured passengers across Milwaukee, Madison, Appleton, Green Bay, and surrounding areas. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and take on the insurance companies so you can focus on healing.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Don’t let a denied claim stand in the way of your recovery. Take the first step toward justice with Natasha Misra Law.

Natasha Misra law is experienced representing injured cyclists. Because cyclists are largely unprotected when up against a motor vehicle, we understand that accidents can cause traumatic and lasting injuries. We work with accident victims to help them recover the compensation they need to recover financially.

What Happens When The Accident Is Caused By A Cyclist?

Under Wisconsin law, a cyclist’s own negligence does not bar recovery if his negligence was not “greater than the negligence of the person against whom recovery is sought.” Rather, the cyclist’s damages would be reduced in proportion to the extent to which he was negligent. 

In other words, if a cyclist was only 40% at fault, then he will still be able to recover up to 60% of his available damages. However, if he was deemed 60% at fault, he would be barred from recovery.

What Are Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

All forms of negligent or reckless driving can cause collisions with bicyclists. However, other causes include:

  • Low visibility: Bikes are small and may be hard to see, particularly at dusk or on narrow, winding roads. 
  • Distracted driving: Drivers may be distracted by phones, music, other passengers, and more. This can lead them to drive recklessly, take their eyes off the road, and strike an unsuspecting cyclist.
  • Road or weather conditions: Sometimes, accidents are unavoidable tragedies. A car may slip on ice, hydroplane, experience a tire blowout, or otherwise swerve into a cyclist. Similarly, poor road conditions like potholes can send a vehicle off course. 
  • Failure to yield: If a driver fails to yield to a biker as they are legally required, they can strike and seriously injure - or even kill - a cyclist.

How to Prevent Bike Accidents

Defensive driving is the most effective way to avoid a collision with a biker. Maintain the speed limit, pay attention to the road, eliminate distractions, obey all posted signage, yield, obey traffic signals, and let others have the right of way. Above all, always keep a lookout: even if you are doing everything you can and should to stay safe, other drivers - or even cyclists - may not be. Who was doing the “right thing” simply won’t matter if you end up in a lethal collision, so put your pride aside and drive safely, even if someone else is acting reckless.

What To Do After A Bike Accident

You should immediately reach out to a personal injury lawyer for guidance on the right steps to take. However, in general, you should also:

  • Call the police: A law enforcement officer will investigate the cause of your crash and record the facts in an official accident report. Your attorney will use this report to prove your case down the road should you decide to file a claim.
  • Exchange information with involved parties: Gather contact information from the motorist who hit you, as well as any eyewitnesses. Be sure to take down their names, phone numbers, addresses, and drivers’ license and insurance information. 
  • Snap photos: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved.
  • Seek medical treatment: It is vital to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Some injuries may not present for days or even weeks after the accident, so take time to ensure you’ve identified any serious latent injuries.
Natasha Misra

My law practice is dedicated to helping people who have suffered injuries in accidents which were not their fault. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I come from a family of medical professionals. My background and experience help me understand and represent individuals injured in accidents.