TL;DR: If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in California, protect your health and legal rights by getting immediate medical attention, documenting the scene, and speaking with a rideshare accident lawyer. Whether you were a passenger, driver, or in another vehicle, rideshare claims are complex. Fault, insurance layers, and app status all matter. Donโt go it alone.
Understanding Your Rights as a Passenger vs. Driver
If You Were a Passenger
- You are never at fault. Passengers are considered innocent parties.
- Both rideshare and third-party insurance may apply. Uber and Lyft carry up to $1 million in coverage during active rides.
- You have the right to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If You Were the Rideshare Driver
- Coverage depends on your app status.
- App off: Your personal insurance applies.
- App on, no ride accepted: Limited liability coverage (e.g., $50,000/$100,000).
- Ride accepted or passenger onboard: Uber/Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability and uninsured motorist coverage.
- Fault affects compensation. If youโre partly at fault, Californiaโs comparative negligence rules apply (Civil Code ยง1714).
If You Were in Another Vehicle
- You can still recover damages from the rideshare driver and/or Uber/Lyft if they were at fault.
- You may face challenges if the rideshare driver claims you were to blame. Thorough documentation is crucial.
5 Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident
- Call 911 and seek medical attention
- Always get checked, even if injuries seem minor.
- This creates essential documentation.
- Document the scene
- Take photos of vehicle damage, rideshare logos, license plates, and injuries.
- Capture screenshots of the Uber/Lyft trip details if you were a passenger or driver.
- Gather contact information
- Get names, phone numbers, insurance details, and app status of all drivers.
- Ask for witness contact info.
- File a report with the rideshare company
- Use the in-app accident report feature.
- Donโt accept fault or provide a recorded statement to insurers without legal guidance.
- Call a rideshare accident lawyer
- These claims often involve multiple insurance carriers, conflicting stories, and shifting blame.
- A lawyer can preserve evidence, determine liability, and maximize your compensation.
What Insurance Covers Uber and Lyft Accidents?
| Rideshare App Status | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|
| App off | Driverโs personal insurance |
| App on (no ride accepted) | Limited liability ($50k/$100k) from Uber/Lyft |
| Ride accepted/passenger onboard | Up to $1M in liability + uninsured motorist coverage |
Important: These policies often have fine print, exclusions, and multiple adjusters. Let your attorney handle communication.
Common Disputes in Rideshare Accidents
- Was the driver โon the clockโ? App timestamps matter.
- Who caused the accident? Police reports and video evidence can clarify.
- Which insurer is responsible? Multiple policies may overlap or deny coverage.
- What damages are recoverable? Medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering are common. โDamagesโ simply means money to cover your losses.
Real Client Example: Lyft Passenger, Major Results
In San Diego, our client was riding in a Lyft when the driver ran a red light and was T-boned by an SUV. Initially offered $35,000 by Lyftโs insurer, we investigated dash cam footage, obtained the app trip data, and brought in medical experts.
Final settlement: $310,000
Feeling Overwhelmed After the Crash?
Youโre not alone. Rideshare accidents often involve:
- Unclear liability
- Confusing insurance tiers
- Delayed or denied claims
Take a deep breath. Start with medical care and let a qualified attorney handle the rest. Our team has helped hundreds of rideshare passengers and drivers recover full compensation.
FAQs
- Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
- Not usually. Because drivers are classified as independent contractors, your claim goes through their insurance. However, there are exceptions if the company acted negligently in hiring or training.
- What if the rideshare driver wasnโt at fault?
- You can still recover from the at-fault driverโs insurance. Uber/Lyftโs uninsured/underinsured coverage may also apply.
- Should I talk to Uber/Lyft or their insurer?
- Only to report the crash. Donโt give recorded statements or discuss fault without legal counsel.
- I was the driver, but the other car caused it. Am I covered?
- Yes. If you had a passenger or were en route to one, Uber/Lyftโs $1M policy applies.
- How long do I have to file a claim?
- In California, you generally have 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a government vehicle was involved, the window may be as short as 6 months.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.
Attorney Attribution
Neama Rahmani, Esq.
President, West Coast Trial Lawyers
California Bar No. 240613
Verify at the California State Bar
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