Rideshare Uber & Lyft Accidents: Your Rights as a Passenger or Driver

Key Takeaways:

• Rideshare Accidents Involve More Complex Legal and Insurance Issues

  • Unlike typical car crashes, Uber and Lyft accidents trigger multiple layers of insurance depending on the driver’s status in the app and often involve high-limit commercial policies, but require careful investigation to access coverage.

• There are Different Insurance Opinions for Drivers, Passengers, and Third-Party Victims

  • Drivers injured on the job may be eligible for compensation, but coverage varies depending on whether the driver was actively engaged in a ride.

  • If you’re hurt as a rideshare passenger, you may have claims against the rideshare driver, another motorist, or both.

  • If you were driving your own car, biking, or walking and were struck by a rideshare driver, you may be entitled to compensation through Uber or Lyft’s insurance.

• A Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Maximize Your Claim

  • Because these cases involve unique legal and insurance dynamics, an experienced rideshare accident lawyer can preserve key evidence, navigate policy disputes, and help recover full compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Rideshare Accidents in California

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become a staple of California transportation. With just a tap on your phone, you can hitch a ride across town. But as convenient as these apps are, accidents involving rideshare vehicles can and do happen, and Uber passengers face unique legal considerations regarding their rights and potential compensation.

In fact, studies have linked the introduction of ride-hailing services to a roughly 3% increase in traffic fatalities – about 987 additional deaths each year nationwide. Uber accidents are a significant example of the types of incidents that can occur as a result of this trend.

If you’re injured in a rideshare accident in California, you may quickly find that these cases are more complex than a typical car crash. This blog post breaks down why rideshare accidents are different, including how the Uber app is used to determine the status of the driver and passenger at the time of an accident, what legal options you have as a passenger or a driver, what liabilities may apply, and how a rideshare accident lawyer can help you navigate your claim.

At RMD Law, we specialize in helping people injured in rideshare accidents get the answers – and the compensation – they deserve.

Uber and Lyft Accidents – What’s the Big Deal?

With the explosive growth of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, rideshare accidents have become a frequent concern on California roads. Whether you’re a passenger, a rideshare driver, or a third party involved in a collision, these accidents often lead to complicated insurance claims and legal questions.

Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare accidents can involve multiple parties and overlapping insurance policies, making it challenging to determine who is responsible and how to pursue a personal injury claim. Navigating this process requires a clear understanding of your rights and the unique rules that apply to Uber and Lyft. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, consulting with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer is essential. The right accident lawyer can help you understand your options, handle insurance claims, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Why Rideshare Accidents Are More Legally Complex

Getting into an accident with an Uber or Lyft isn’t the same as a run-of-the-mill fender bender. Rideshare accidents are legally more complex because they involve additional parties and special insurance rules. Rideshare insurance differs from standard auto insurance because it is designed specifically for drivers working with companies like Uber and Lyft, with unique coverage periods and liability limits.

For one, California is an “at-fault” state, meaning the driver who caused the crash is financially responsible for damages. But in a rideshare scenario, determining who pays (and how much) can be tricky. Here are a few key differences:

Multiple Insurance Policies

A rideshare driver’s personal auto insurance won’t cover accidents that happen while they’re logged into a rideshare app (commercial use is excluded). In fact, since 2015 California law has required that personal auto policies provide no coverage whenever a driver is using a rideshare platform. Personal insurance policies generally only apply when the vehicle is used for personal, non-commercial purposes, and will not cover incidents that occur while the driver is waiting for a ride request or transporting passengers for Uber. Instead, the rideshare company’s insurance steps in.

Uber and Lyft are required to carry substantial insurance for their drivers – up to $1 million in liability coverage whenever a ride is in progress. This is dramatically higher than typical minimum coverage; for example, California mandates only $30,000 in liability coverage per person for private drivers, so Uber/Lyft’s policy is 30+ times larger.

Driver Status Matters

The amount of insurance available depends on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the crash. Rideshare insurers and laws divide an Uber/Lyft driver’s time into “periods.” Period 1 is when the driver has the app on but no ride request yet; Period 2 is when they’ve accepted a ride and are en route to pick up; Period 3 covers the time when a passenger is in the vehicle. For Uber drivers, insurance coverage changes depending on which period they are in, and this classification can affect liability and legal considerations after an accident. California law requires different coverage for each period.

If an Uber driver is waiting for a ride (Period 1), the company must provide at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in liability coverage (plus $30,000 for property damage), with an extra $200,000 in excess coverage. Once a ride is accepted or underway (Periods 2 and 3), a full $1,000,000 liability policy applies until the passenger exits. In short, an accident “on the clock” triggers high corporate insurance coverage that wouldn’t exist in a normal crash.

Independent Contractors vs. Employers

Another wrinkle is that rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees of Uber or Lyft. This was solidified by California’s Proposition 22 in 2020. Why does it matter? It means Uber and Lyft often deny direct liability for their drivers’ negligence, since vicarious liability usually applies to employees.

However, California law treats Uber and Lyft as common carriers, just like taxis or buses, meaning they must “exercise the utmost care” for passengers’ safety. They also must provide the mandated insurance coverage for accidents. In practice, this setup creates a complex dynamic: you might not technically sue Uber/Lyft as a defendant for a driver’s mistake, but their insurance and policies will play a huge role in your claim. Rideshare driver’s insurance is also a key factor—while drivers are required to carry their own insurance, it often has coverage limitations, so Uber and Lyft provide additional coverage options when the driver’s insurance is insufficient.

All these factors make rideshare accidents more complicated than a typical two-car crash. There are potentially multiple insurance companies involved (the rideshare company’s insurer, the rideshare driver’s personal insurer, and other drivers’ insurers), and legal thresholds about coverage depending on what the driver was doing. This complexity is exactly why many injured riders or drivers turn to a rideshare accident lawyer to sort out the details.

Rideshare Company Policies

Uber and Lyft have developed specific insurance coverage policies to address the unique risks associated with rideshare services. These policies are designed to protect both passengers and drivers, but the level of liability insurance available depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. For example, if a rideshare driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, the coverage provided by the rideshare company is typically limited.

Once a ride request is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft’s liability insurance increases significantly, often up to $1 million. However, the details of these policies can be complex, and coverage may vary based on the specific circumstances of the accident. Understanding how these rideshare company policies apply to your situation is crucial for ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. If you’re unsure about your rights or the insurance coverage available, consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help clarify your options and protect your interests.

Common Causes of Rideshare Car Accidents

Rideshare accidents can happen for many reasons, but certain factors are more common due to the nature of rideshare work. Distracted driving is a leading cause, as rideshare drivers often rely on their smartphones for navigation, ride requests, and communication with passengers. Long hours behind the wheel can also lead to driver fatigue, increasing the risk of mistakes and slow reaction times.

Additionally, the pressure to complete more trips quickly can encourage speeding or risky maneuvers. Other common causes include unfamiliarity with local roads, sudden stops to pick up or drop off passengers, and navigating busy urban environments. Understanding these risks can help both drivers and passengers stay alert and take steps to prevent rideshare car accidents. If you are involved in a rideshare accident, knowing the common causes can also help you and your attorney build a strong case for compensation.

Legal Options for Injured Rideshare Passengers

Being hurt as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft can be especially scary – you had no control over the situation. The good news is that California law provides strong protections for rideshare passengers, and you have several options to pursue compensation. As an injured passenger, you may need to file a rideshare car accident claim to seek compensation, which involves understanding the claims process and your legal rights. Here’s what to know about your rights as an injured passenger:

You’re Likely Covered by $1 Million Insurance

No matter who was at fault for the accident, as a passenger you are protected by significant insurance coverage. If your Uber/Lyft driver caused the crash, the company’s $1 million liability policy should cover your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages up to that limit.

The timing of when the accident occurred is important, as insurance coverage depends on whether the rideshare trip was active at that moment. If another vehicle’s driver caused the crash, that at-fault driver’s insurance is primary – but if they are uninsured or don’t carry enough insurance, Uber/Lyft’s policy includes up to $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to cover your injuries.

California actually requires rideshare companies to carry this $1M UM/UIM coverage for accidents while a passenger is in the vehicle. In short, you shouldn’t be left in the cold as a passenger – there should be an insurance policy (or two) available to cover your damages.

Filing a Claim vs. Lawsuit

As a passenger, your legal option usually starts with an insurance claim. You may file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurer and/or the other driver’s insurer, depending on fault. Often, Uber and Lyft’s insurance (which is typically a commercial policy through a major insurer) will handle passenger injury claims relatively upfront, especially if their driver was at fault.

However, don’t assume the first offer will be fair – it may undervalue your losses. If your injuries are serious or liability is contested, you might need to file a personal injury lawsuit to pursue full compensation. In these situations, working with an attorney is crucial to determine liability, as they can help navigate complex insurance policies and establish who is responsible for the accident.

This could mean suing the at-fault driver (whether it’s the rideshare driver or another motorist) and, indirectly, tapping into the rideshare company’s insurance coverage. Remember, even though Uber or Lyft might not be a named defendant due to the contractor issue, their insurer is effectively on the hook for covered accidents.

What You Can Recover

Legally, you’re entitled to the same types of damages as in any auto accident: medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and so on. Securing full injury compensation is crucial to ensure you receive fair financial recovery for all injuries sustained in a rideshare accident. The high policy limits in rideshare cases mean that, in many cases, there’s enough to cover even significant injuries. (For example, Lyft’s $1 million policy could cover many “minor” injury claims fully.) However, if you suffer catastrophic injuries that cost more than $1 million – say a permanent spinal cord injury – you may need to pursue further compensation beyond the policy limits.

This is where an experienced attorney might explore additional avenues, such as underinsured motorist coverage from your own auto policy or even the rare possibility of holding the rideshare company directly accountable if negligence in their processes contributed to the crash. The bottom line is: as a passenger, you have a right to be made whole for your injuries, and there are sizeable insurance resources in place to help do that.

Tip: After any rideshare accident, make sure to report the incident through the app (Uber and Lyft both have in-app reporting), and get a copy of the police report if available. Document your injuries and medical treatment. This will all help when pursuing your claim.

Legal Options for Injured Rideshare Drivers

If you’re a rideshare driver (Uber or Lyft driver) who’s been injured in an accident, your situation is a bit different from a passenger’s. However, you still have legal options to seek compensation. As a driver, you could be injured either because another driver hit you or because you were in a collision while on the job. In a car accident involving Uber, there are unique legal and insurance considerations, including determining who is responsible for damages and understanding the specific coverage available. Here’s how those scenarios play out:

If Another Driver Caused the Crash

Being a rideshare driver doesn’t prevent you from recovering like any other motorist would. If someone else’s negligence (for example, a drunk driver or a reckless speeder) caused the accident, that driver is liable for your injuries. In an accident involving another vehicle, you can file a claim against that driver’s insurance just as you would in a normal accident.

What if that driver has no insurance or not enough? This is where the rideshare company’s insurance can help you too. If you had accepted a ride or had a passenger at the time (Periods 2 or 3), Uber/Lyft’s $1 million UM/UIM coverage can cover your injuries caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver. (Their UM coverage isn’t just for passengers – as the driver, you can benefit from it as well when you’re on an active ride.) If you were simply online waiting for a request (Period 1) when hit by an uninsured driver, coverage is less clear since California’s $1M UM requirement technically applies only when a passenger is in the car.

However, rideshare companies often voluntarily provide some UM coverage in period 1 as well – you’d need to check the specific policy. In any case, as a rideshare driver injured by someone else, you have the right to pursue compensation from the at-fault party and make use of Uber/Lyft’s insurance if needed.

If You (the Rideshare Driver) Were At Fault

If the accident was partially or fully your fault, your situation is tougher – but there may still be options. First, your passengers (if any) and others hurt will be covered by the $1M liability policy (which protects them, not you as the at-fault driver). However, for your own injuries, that liability insurance won’t pay (since one can’t typically claim liability coverage for oneself). Because you’re an independent contractor, you also don’t get workers’ compensation from Uber/Lyft like an employee would.

That said, after Prop 22, rideshare companies in California must provide drivers with a form of occupational accident insurance for on-the-job injuries. This coverage can pay for medical bills and lost income up to certain limits (for example, up to $1 million in medical expenses) if you’re hurt while driving with the app, regardless of fault. It’s not as comprehensive as true workers’ comp (and it may not cover everything, like pain and suffering), but it’s something. You should report the accident through the driver app and inquire about how to file a claim under this benefit.

Additionally, if you carry your own health insurance or disability insurance, those can help cover your injuries. And if another party was even partially at fault, you could still seek partial recovery from them under California’s comparative negligence rules. Even at-fault rideshare drivers aren’t completely without recourse, but your options will primarily be insurance-based and possibly limited. To ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and losses, it is important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the claims process and negotiate with insurance companies.

Damage to Your Vehicle

As a rideshare driver, your car is your livelihood. If your vehicle was damaged, Uber and Lyft do offer contingent collision coverage if you have your own collision insurance on your personal policy. This contingent coverage applies during periods 2 and 3, typically with a deductible (e.g. $1,000). If another driver was at fault, of course their property damage liability should pay for repairs. It’s wise to consult with an attorney or your insurance agent to navigate these property damage claims, especially if there’s any dispute. Working with an attorney who can negotiate with insurance companies effectively is crucial to secure fair compensation for your vehicle repairs.

In summary, as a rideshare driver injured in an accident, you can pursue claims much like any driver would, and you benefit from some additional coverage required by law. However, because of the independent contractor setup, maximizing your recovery can be complicated. This is where consulting a rideshare accident lawyer is invaluable – they can identify all available sources of compensation (other drivers’ insurance, Uber/Lyft’s policies, your own policies, Prop 22 benefits, etc.) to help you get back on your feet.

If You’re Hit by a Rideshare Vehicle (Third-Party Drivers and Pedestrians)

Not everyone involved in a rideshare accident is inside the Uber or Lyft. You might be driving your own car or walking/biking as a pedestrian when a rideshare driver crashes into you. If you are injured as a third party in a Lyft accident, there are specific legal considerations regarding liability and insurance coverage that you should be aware of. In California, your legal options in this situation are similar to any accident – with a few important twists due to the rideshare element:

At-Fault Rideshare Driver

If the Uber/Lyft driver caused the accident that injured you, they (and effectively their insurer) are responsible for your damages. You would file a claim against the rideshare driver just as you would against any at-fault driver. Determining liability is crucial in these cases to ensure the correct party is held responsible and that your claim is directed appropriately. The big difference is, as noted above, that the insurance available is much higher than in a typical crash.

If the rideshare driver was on an active trip or en route to pick up (period 2 or 3), there is $1 million in liability coverage that can cover your medical bills, lost wages, etc. If the driver was logged in waiting for rides (period 1), the coverage is lower – e.g. up to $50k per person – but still more than most individual policies. (And remember, if they were completely off the app, then it’s treated like a normal accident with only their personal insurance involved.)

From your perspective as an injured third party, you may have to deal with Uber/Lyft’s insurance company in these claims. Don’t be intimidated by the large insurer or the fact that a big company is in the picture – the law is on your side that they must cover valid claims if their driver was negligent.

At-Fault Other Driver

Sometimes the Uber/Lyft car hits you because another driver caused them to crash (for example, a third car runs a red light, causing the rideshare driver to swerve into you). In these cases, your claim would be against that other at-fault driver’s insurance, as usual. Rideshare accident victims have the right to pursue compensation from all responsible parties, ensuring their interests are protected after such incidents. The rideshare company’s insurance might not directly come into play for you, except possibly if the Uber/Lyft driver also had some fault.

One thing to be aware of: if multiple drivers share blame (say the rideshare driver was going a bit too fast, and the other car ran a light), you may have claims against both. California’s comparative fault rules allow you to recover from each party according to their percentage of fault. This can get complicated with multiple insurance companies pointing fingers at each other. An attorney can help ensure that you don’t get caught in the middle of a blame game – the focus will be on getting you compensated.

Hit as a Pedestrian or Cyclist

If you were a pedestrian or bicyclist hit by a rideshare vehicle, the scenarios mirror the above. You’d pursue the at-fault driver (or drivers), and if that happens to be an Uber/Lyft driver on the app, then their hefty insurance policy is available to cover your claim. California law treats injuries to third parties the same whether a vehicle is a rideshare or not – negligent drivers are liable for the harm they cause. The difference is just the insurance source and amount, which, again, often works in your favor when a TNC (Transportation Network Company) is involved.

In any of these third-party situations, it’s crucial to gather evidence at the scene if you can – get the Uber/Lyft driver’s information and the rideshare company info (take a screenshot of the license plate and the Uber/Lyft trade dress on the car, if visible). Also note the app status if possible (was there a passenger? was the driver saying they were working?). This can help later in establishing coverage. Don’t worry if you’re unsure; police reports and subpoenaed electronic records can later clarify the driver’s status, but it helps to mention anything you observed to your lawyer.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability in rideshare accidents ultimately comes down to the same question as any auto accident: who was negligent? However, figuring out who to hold accountable (and who pays) can involve multiple parties. Uber and Lyft accident cases often present unique challenges, including complicated insurance coverage and the classification of drivers, which can impact your ability to recover compensation.

Navigating an Uber accident can be especially complex due to unique insurance policies and legal issues, making it crucial to seek specialized legal help. Here’s a rundown of potential liable parties in a California rideshare crash:

• The Rideshare Driver – If an Uber or Lyft driver’s careless driving caused the accident (speeding, running a red light, distracted, etc.), they are liable for the injuries and damages. Their insurance, provided by Uber/Lyft, typically covers compensation up to policy limits. Despite being independent contractors, California law holds rideshare drivers to a high duty of care as common carriers, making them responsible for negligence.

• The Rideshare Company (Uber or Lyft) – While Uber and Lyft often deny direct liability since drivers are independent contractors, they can be held liable in cases of corporate negligence, such as failing to conduct proper background checks or vehicle inspections. As common carriers, they owe passengers a high duty of care. Usually, claims resolve through insurance, but lawsuits against the company may arise if damages exceed policy limits or misconduct is evident.

• Other Vehicle Drivers – In multi-vehicle crashes, any negligent driver can be held liable. For example, if a third-party driver causes a collision involving a rideshare vehicle, claims may be made against both drivers, with liability apportioned under California’s comparative fault system.

• Vehicle Manufacturers / Other Parties – Less commonly, liability may extend to vehicle defects or dangerous road conditions, implicating manufacturers or government entities. An experienced attorney will explore all potential responsible parties to maximize recovery.

Your personal injury lawsuit could potentially target multiple defendants: the Uber/Lyft driver, another driver, and possibly the rideshare company or others depending on circumstances. This doesn’t mean you’re aiming to “get rich” by piling on defendants – it’s about making sure the one who caused your harm is held accountable and that you have access to enough insurance coverage to cover your losses.

A personal injury lawsuit can seek compensation from any and all responsible parties to achieve that. Given the complexity of rideshare cases, consulting accident lawyers who specialize in Uber and Lyft accidents is essential to ensure all liability angles are addressed.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

If you find yourself involved in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your recovery and your ability to secure fair compensation. First and foremost, seek medical treatment right away – even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and prompt medical attention creates a record that can support your claim.

Next, document the accident scene as thoroughly as possible: take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and all parties involved. Avoid discussing fault or making statements to the insurance company before speaking with an experienced rideshare accident attorney. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or pressure you into a quick settlement.

An attorney can help you navigate the insurance process, ensure your medical bills and lost wages are properly documented, and fight for the fair compensation you deserve. Remember, your health and legal rights come first – don’t hesitate to seek medical treatment and legal advice after a rideshare accident.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Strengthen Your Rideshare Accident Claim

Dealing with the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. You might be injured, stressed, and getting calls from insurance adjusters representing Uber/Lyft or other drivers. This is where personal injury lawyers and rideshare accident lawyers, who are experienced in handling these complex cases, can be your greatest ally. Here’s how an attorney can help prove and strengthen your claim:

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

A lawyer will dive deep into investigating the accident. This can include obtaining the police report, any available traffic or dashcam videos, and photographs of the scene. Crucially in rideshare cases, your attorney can quickly send a preservation request to Uber or Lyft to save electronic records – data such as the ride history, GPS records, and driver log-in status can prove the driver was on the app (which triggers insurance coverage) and may even show vehicle speed or route. Lawyers may also interview witnesses and, if needed, work with accident reconstruction experts to piece together exactly how the crash happened and who was at fault.

Navigating Insurance Complexities

As we’ve discussed, rideshare accidents involve layered insurance policies and sometimes multiple insurers. An experienced rideshare accident lawyer knows the ins and outs of these policies. They can identify all sources of coverage – the rideshare company’s policy, the other driver’s policy, your own auto policy’s uninsured motorist coverage, etc. – and ensure that each does its part. They’ll handle communications with the insurance adjusters so you don’t have to worry about saying something that could harm your claim.

Importantly, a lawyer will fight attempts by insurers to minimize or deny your claim. For instance, if Uber’s insurer tries to argue the driver wasn’t “actively on a ride” (to reduce coverage), your attorney can use evidence and California’s TNC regulations to challenge that.

Proving Liability and Fault

If there’s any dispute about who caused the accident, your attorney will work to prove negligence. This could mean demonstrating that the rideshare driver was distracted by the app, or that the other driver was speeding or intoxicated. California uses comparative negligence, so even if fault is shared, your lawyer will advocate to correctly assign blame so you aren’t unfairly saddled with it. They’ll use evidence like phone records, timing of ride requests, or expert testimony to strengthen your case.

Remember, Uber and Lyft drivers must follow the same rules of the road as everyone else – and as common carriers, arguably an even higher standard of care – so if you were hurt, your lawyer’s job is to clearly establish what went wrong and why the responsible party should pay.

Calculating Your Damages

A personal injury lawyer will help you understand the full value of your claim. It’s not just immediate medical bills – it’s future treatment, rehab, lost earning capacity if you can’t work for a while (or permanently), and the human costs like pain, suffering, and emotional distress. Medical costs are a key component of the compensation calculation, including both current and anticipated expenses related to your injuries.

Because rideshare insurers often have high policy limits, it’s especially important not to undersell your claim. For example, if you’re a passenger who suffered a broken bone and PTSD from a traumatic Uber crash, you might be entitled to a lot more than what an adjuster initially offers for medical bills alone. Your attorney will gather medical records, bills, and possibly opinions from medical or economic experts to document every penny of your losses, making a compelling case for the compensation you deserve.

Advocacy and Negotiation

Most rideshare accident claims are resolved through settlement negotiations rather than going all the way to trial. Having a lawyer signals to the insurance company that you mean business and understand your rights. Attorneys who routinely handle Uber/Lyft cases know what fair settlements look like for various injuries and circumstances. They will negotiate firmly on your behalf. If the insurer won’t be reasonable, your lawyer can and will file a lawsuit and take the case toward trial. Sometimes, just the threat of litigation by a reputable firm like ours can push the insurance to offer a fair amount. And if a trial is necessary, you’ll have professional representation every step of the way, presenting your case to a jury.

In essence, a rideshare accident lawyer is your champion in a complex process. They level the playing field between you and the large insurance companies (or corporate lawyers) involved. At our firm, we’ve seen how having skilled legal help can make a night-and-day difference in the outcome of a case. It can mean the difference between a token settlement that barely covers expenses and a full compensation that truly addresses your needs and hardships after the accident.

Rideshare Accident Settlements

Settling a rideshare accident claim can be a complex process, with outcomes that vary widely depending on the details of your case. Factors such as the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the specific insurance policies of the rideshare company all play a role in determining the value of your settlement. Insurance companies representing Uber, Lyft, or their drivers may attempt to minimize payouts or dispute liability, making it challenging for accident victims to secure the compensation they need.

This is where having an experienced rideshare accident lawyer becomes invaluable. An Uber and Lyft accident lawyer can assess the true value of your claim, negotiate with insurance carriers on your behalf, and provide the legal representation needed to protect your rights. With the right guidance, you can ensure that the rideshare company and their insurance companies are held accountable, and that you receive a settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Don’t settle for less than you deserve—work with a legal team that understands the complexities of rideshare accident settlements and will fight for your best interests.

Protecting Your Rights After a Rideshare Accident in California

Uber or Lyft accidents can introduce a tangle of legal issues, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you were an innocent passenger, a diligent rideshare driver, or just someone unlucky enough to be hit by a rideshare vehicle, California law provides avenues for you to recover financially for your injuries. The key is understanding your rights and the unique insurance landscape of these cases. Always remember to prioritize your safety and health first: get medical attention, report the accident, and then consider reaching out for legal guidance.

If you find yourself in this situation, talking with an experienced California rideshare accident lawyer can help clarify your next steps. They can explain your options, handle the heavy lifting with insurers and paperwork, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

If your case involves Uber, hiring an Uber and Lyft accident lawyer can be especially beneficial, as they understand the complexities of Uber-related claims and can help maximize your compensation. Our personal injury team at RMD Law has handled numerous rideshare accident cases and is familiar with the tactics of Uber and Lyft’s insurance companies. We’re here to answer your questions, protect your rights, and strengthen your claim every step of the way.

Rideshare accidents may be more complex than other crashes, but with the right knowledge and support, you can confidently pursue your legal options. RMD Law are committed to advocating for rideshare accident victims and protecting their rights throughout the legal process. Contact us today at (949) 828-0015 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Know that if the unexpected happens on a rideshare trip, you have rights and we’re here to help you uphold them.