Guam · 5 min read · Published Jun 2025 · Last updated Jun 2026

Uber & Taxi Accidents in Guam: Who Pays?

Guam's transportation network includes taxis, hotel shuttles, and rideshare services. When you are injured as a passenger in one of these vehicles — or struck by one as a pedestrian or driver — figuring out who is responsible and which insurance policy applies can be surprisingly complex. This guide explains the liability framework for rideshare and taxi accidents in Guam.

Taxi and Shuttle Liability in Guam

Licensed taxi and shuttle operators in Guam are required to carry commercial liability insurance. As a passenger, you are a fare-paying customer and the driver owes you a heightened duty of care as a 'common carrier.' This means they must exercise the highest degree of care for your safety. If the driver's negligence caused your injury — reckless driving, running a red light, distracted driving — you have a strong claim against both the driver and the taxi company. The company is vicariously liable for its drivers' negligence.

Rideshare Liability: The Three Periods

Rideshare liability depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident. Period 1 (app on, no ride accepted): the driver's personal insurance applies, with limited rideshare company coverage. Period 2 (ride accepted, en route to pick up): the rideshare company's commercial policy typically provides $1 million in liability coverage. Period 3 (passenger in vehicle): the $1 million commercial policy applies. If you were injured as a passenger during Period 3, you have access to significant insurance coverage. Guam's rideshare market is smaller than the mainland, and coverage specifics may vary by operator.

When the Driver's Insurer Denies Your Claim

Personal auto insurance policies typically exclude commercial use — if a taxi or rideshare driver is using their personal policy, the insurer may deny your claim on the grounds that the driver was working at the time. This is why it is critical to identify the correct insurance policy immediately. An attorney can send a preservation letter to all potential insurers and demand disclosure of all applicable policies. Do not accept a denial without legal review.

What to Do After a Taxi or Rideshare Accident in Guam

Get the driver's full name, license number, taxi medallion number or rideshare app receipt, and the vehicle's registration and insurance information. Take screenshots of your rideshare app showing the trip details — this is critical evidence of the driver's status at the time of the accident. Photograph your injuries and the scene. Call 911 and get a police report. Seek medical treatment immediately.

Key Takeaways

Screenshot your rideshare app trip receipt immediately — it proves the driver's status
Taxis and shuttles are common carriers with a heightened duty of care to passengers
Rideshare companies provide $1M commercial coverage when a passenger is in the vehicle
Personal auto policies typically exclude commercial use — identify the correct policy
Do not accept a coverage denial without legal review

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue the rideshare company directly?

Rideshare companies typically classify drivers as independent contractors, which limits direct employer liability. However, you can access their commercial insurance policy as an injured passenger. In some cases — particularly if the company knew the driver had a dangerous history — direct negligence claims against the company are possible.

What if the taxi driver was at fault but has no insurance?

If a licensed taxi operator in Guam is operating without required insurance, the taxi company is still liable. You may also have a claim against the licensing authority for failing to enforce insurance requirements. An attorney can identify all available sources of recovery.