Uber/Lyft Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Understanding Rideshare Accidents: Essential Information for Uber and Lyft Users in California

Whether you were an Uber / Lyft driver, passenger, third party driver or a pedestrian who was hit by an Uber / Lyft, Ghazarian Law Office, APC is here to help.

Uber, Lyft and their insurers have adjusters working to limit what they pay. Talk to us before you give a recorded statement.

High Risk of Rideshare Accidents in Southern California

In Southern California, it’s common to see Lyft and Uber vehicles on the roads. The prevalence of these services means the likelihood of being involved in a rideshare accident is high. Victims of such accidents often face substantial medical expenses and other damages.

Accidents involving rideshare vehicles can result in severe injuries or even fatal wrongful death claims. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by the negligence of a rideshare driver, understanding your rights and how to seek compensation is crucial. The following guide will provide essential information to help you navigate the complexities of rideshare accident claims.

Unique Aspects of Uber and Lyft Accidents in California

Rideshare accidents differ significantly from regular auto accidents. Ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft are not traditional transportation companies; they connect independent drivers with passengers through an app. This distinction affects how liability and insurance policies are applied.

California regulates Uber and Lyft as “transportation network companies” and requires them to carry specific insurance for their drivers, which can mean more coverage is available than in an ordinary crash.

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

As in any crash, the driver who caused the accident is legally responsible. What changes in a rideshare case is which insurance pays. That depends on whether the Uber or Lyft driver had the app on, was heading to a pickup, or had a passenger in the car, as the table below shows. Other drivers, vehicle owners, or a public agency responsible for the road may also share fault.

Which Uber or Lyft Insurance Applies?

It depends on what the rideshare driver was doing when the crash happened.

Driver’s status	Coverage that applies
App off	The driver’s personal auto policy only. California’s minimum is $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident for injuries.
App on, waiting for a ride (Period 1)	Uber or Lyft liability coverage of $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident / $30,000 property damage, plus $200,000 excess.
Ride accepted, driving to pickup (Period 2)	$1,000,000 liability coverage from Uber or Lyft.
Passenger in the car (Period 3)	$1,000,000 liability coverage from Uber or Lyft.

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage changed. Under SB 371, Uber and Lyft must now carry $60,000 per person / $300,000 per incident in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for periods 2 and 3, down from $1 million. If you were a rideshare passenger hit by an uninsured driver, your own auto policy’s UM coverage may also apply. We’ll check every policy that could pay.

Protect your claim: take a screenshot of the app showing the trip status, and get the driver’s name, plate and insurance before leaving the scene.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, take the following steps to protect your rights:

1. Seek medical attention: Your health is the priority. Get medical help immediately, even if injuries seem minor.

2. Report the accident: Inform the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. Notify the rideshare company through their app.

3. Gather evidence: Collect information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver, passengers, and witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene and document any injuries.

4. Consult an attorney: Contact a rideshare accident lawyer to guide you through the legal process and help secure the compensation you deserve.

Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Attorney

An attorney who regularly handles rideshare claims in California can identify every policy that applies. An experienced lawyer will:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly.
• Determine liability.
• Handle communications with insurance companies.
• Negotiate settlements.
• Represent you in court if necessary.

Conclusion

Rideshare accidents involving Uber and Lyft are unique and complex. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, call attorney Andre Ghazarian at (818) 468-8386 for a free consultation.