You never saw the car coming. One minute you're waiting at a stoplight, the next you're waking up in the ICU. A distracted DoorDash driver trying to make a delivery plowed into your vehicle, and now everything has changed.
These aren’t minor fender benders. When a food delivery driver causes a catastrophic crash, victims often face spinal injuries, brain trauma, broken bones, and months—or years—of painful recovery. And sadly, getting the compensation you need isn’t as simple as filing a claim.
That’s where Pete Olson Injury Law steps in. With nearly 30 years of experience holding corporations and insurance companies accountable, Pete and his team know how to fight for those who’ve suffered devastating injuries because someone else failed to drive responsibly.
Does DoorDash Offer Insurance for Delivery Accidents?
Yes, DoorDash does provide auto insurance coverage, but that doesn’t mean it will automatically cover your injuries.
DoorDash carries $1 million in liability coverage, but this policy only applies if the driver was:
- Actively delivering food (on the way to or from a delivery), and
- Using the DoorDash app at the time of the crash
If the driver was offline, waiting for orders, or driving for personal reasons, DoorDash’s insurance likely won’t apply. In that case, the injured party would need to pursue a claim against the driver’s personal auto insurance policy.
What Does DoorDash’s Insurance Actually Cover?
When the coverage applies, DoorDash’s third-party liability policy is designed to pay for damages caused by their driver’s negligence. But just because the policy is available doesn’t mean it covers everything automatically—or that victims receive a fair settlement.
DoorDash’s coverage may include:
- Medical expenses. Hospital bills, surgeries, long-term rehab, and medication.
- Lost income. Compensation for missed work and future earning losses.
- Pain and suffering. Damages for the physical and emotional toll of the accident.
- Property damage. Repairs or replacement of your vehicle or other damaged property.
However, this coverage only pays after the driver’s personal insurance is exhausted. And like many delivery platforms, DoorDash tries to shift responsibility wherever possible, making it difficult for victims to get full compensation without legal support.
What Happens If the DoorDash Driver Wasn’t on a Delivery?
If the driver wasn’t actively picking up or delivering food, then DoorDash will likely deny responsibility—and their insurer won’t pay for your injuries.
In that situation, you would typically need to file a claim against the driver’s personal auto insurance. But many personal policies don’t cover drivers using their cars for commercial delivery—meaning the insurer might deny the claim, or offer only minimal compensation.
This coverage gap is a serious risk, especially when:
- The driver has no commercial insurance
- The driver carries only the state minimum
- Your injuries far exceed what a basic policy can cover
When someone’s reckless driving leaves you with catastrophic harm, you shouldn’t have to guess which policy applies. An experienced attorney can investigate the delivery status, demand app data, and identify every available path to recovery.
Why Victims With Serious Injuries Need an Attorney
If you needed surgery, were admitted to the ICU, or will live with permanent impairment, your claim is far more complex than a basic car accident case. And the insurance company knows that.
Here’s why seriously injured victims need legal protection:
- You’re dealing with corporate insurance lawyers. DoorDash’s insurers are trained to minimize payouts, even when liability is clear.
- You may not know the full cost of your injuries yet. Early settlement offers almost never reflect future surgeries, therapy, or in-home care.
- Evidence disappears fast. App data, delivery logs, and witness accounts can vanish unless preserved quickly.
- Shared fault can be weaponized. Even a small statement can be used to argue you contributed to the crash.
At Pete Olson Injury Law, we don’t just handle cases—we level the playing field for people who’ve suffered life-changing trauma. Our team builds strong claims backed by medical records, expert testimony, and hard evidence that shows the real cost of the harm you’ve suffered.
Warning Signs the Insurance Company Isn’t Treating You Fairly
After a crash, insurers often act cooperative at first. But their real job is to protect their bottom line. Recognizing early signs of bad faith can save you from accepting a settlement that doesn’t come close to covering your needs.
Here are some red flags to watch for:
- They say your injuries aren’t that serious. Even when your records show hospitalization, imaging, or surgery.
- They offer a fast settlement. Before you’ve had time to understand your recovery timeline or long-term impact.
- They ask for a recorded statement. Hoping to get you to say something they can later use against you.
- They blame you for the crash. Even if you were stationary or following traffic laws.
If you’re experiencing any of these tactics, it’s time to protect yourself. Legal representation sends a clear message: you’re not going to be pushed around.
Delivery App Convenience, Catastrophic Costs
Delivery services like DoorDash have reshaped how we eat, but that convenience has a price. When drivers speed through neighborhoods, check their phones mid-route, or rush to complete orders, they endanger everyone on the road.
And when their negligence causes real harm, someone needs to hold them accountable.
At Pete Olson Injury Law, we believe no one should face financial ruin because a corporation’s business model puts speed over safety. We fight to make sure serious injury victims receive the respect, dignity, and compensation they deserve.