Method, apparatus, and system for detecting an on-boarding or off-boarding event based on mobile device sensor data

An approach is provided for detecting an on-boarding or off-boarding event based on mobile device sensor data. The approach, for example, involves retrieving sensor data collected from at least one sensor of a mobile device that is fixed in a stationary position relative to a vehicle. The approach also involves processing the sensor data to determine roll angle data for the vehicle over a time window. The approach further involves processing the roll angle data to determine one or more transitions of a roll angle value of the vehicle between one or more value levels. The approach further involves determining an on-boarding event, an off-boarding event, or a combination thereof based on the one or more transitions. The approach further involves providing the on-boarding event, the off-boarding event, or a combination thereof as an output.