Los Angeles Rideshare Lyft & Uber Accident Lawyers Handling Complicated Cases

If you were hurt in a crash involving a rideshare driver in LA County, we can help

Rideshare services like Lyft and Uber have become a convenient way to get around the San Fernando Valley and communities throughout Los Angeles County. However, car accidents involving rideshare drivers can lead to serious injuries and present unique legal challenges. If you were hurt in a crash involving a Lyft or Uber driver in Southern California, navigating the process of recovering financial compensation for your medical bills and other related expenses can be daunting.

At Oaks Law Firm, our experienced Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. We have extensive experience handling these complicated cases and ensure that injured passengers, drivers, and pedestrians receive the legal support they need.

Whether the rideshare driver, another motorist, or a combination of factors caused the accident, our Uber accident lawyers are committed to advocating for your best interests and securing the best possible outcome for your case.

Who is liable for a rideshare accident with Uber or Lyft?

Rideshare accidents involving Lyft and Uber in California can present unique legal and insurance challenges. Here's a breakdown of these key issues and common scenarios where a rideshare accident lawyer's help is invaluable:

Determining liability: Liability in rideshare accidents can be complex, often involving multiple parties. The at-fault party could be the rideshare driver, another driver on the road, or even a third party, such as a pedestrian or cyclist. Factors like driver negligence, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance all play a role in determining who is responsible for the accident. In some cases, both the rideshare driver and another driver may share liability. Establishing fault is crucial for pursuing a claim, as it directly impacts the compensation you can recover.
Rideshare insurance coverage: Rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber provide varying levels of insurance coverage depending on the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident. Understanding these coverage periods is essential. They include:

- Period 0: The driver is not logged into the rideshare app, and their personal insurance applies.
- Period 1: The driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride. In this phase, the rideshare company's contingent liability coverage typically includes limited coverage, such as $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger. The rideshare company's higher liability coverage is in effect, which may include up to $1 million in liability coverage, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Period 3: The passenger is in the vehicle. The same high coverage from Period 2 applies, providing up to $1 million in liability and other coverages.

Seeking legal help after an Uber accident: Navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, particularly when dealing with multiple insurance companies and complex legal issues. Common scenarios where the assistance of a lawyer is crucial include:

- Disputes over liability: When there is disagreement about who is at fault, a lawyer can help gather evidence, consult with experts, and build a strong case to establish liability.
- Insurance coverage issues: Rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurance policies, including the driver's personal insurance and the rideshare company's insurance. Determining which policy applies and ensuring adequate compensation requires legal expertise.
- Uninsured or underinsured motorist claims: If the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance coverage, a lawyer can help you navigate claims against the rideshare company's uninsured/underinsured motorist policy.
- Severe injuries or fatalities: In cases involving serious injuries or death, securing fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages is complex and requires skilled legal representation.
- Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Common causes of rideshare accidents

Rideshare accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which involve negligent behavior or inadequate safety measures. Some of the most frequent causes include:

Driver distraction

Rideshare drivers often use navigation apps and communicate with passengers, which can lead to distractions. Looking at a phone or engaging in conversation can take the driver's attention off the road, increasing the risk of an accident.

Fatigue

Many rideshare drivers work long hours or drive during late-night shifts to maximize their earnings. Fatigue can impair a driver's reaction time, decision-making abilities, and overall alertness, making accidents more likely.

Speeding

To complete more rides and increase their earnings, some drivers may exceed speed limits or drive too fast for road conditions. Speeding reduces the time available to react to hazards and increases the severity of crashes.

Poor vehicle maintenance

Rideshare vehicles must be well-maintained to ensure passenger safety. Neglecting routine maintenance, such as checking brakes, tires, and lights, can lead to mechanical failures and accidents.

Inadequate driver training

Not all rideshare drivers receive formal training on safe driving practices or how to handle emergency situations. Lack of experience and training can contribute to poor decision-making and increase the risk of accidents.

Steps to take after a rideshare accident

If you are hurt in a rideshare accident in California, taking the right steps immediately afterward can protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

Seek medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, it's essential to get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Report the accident: Notify the police and file an accident report. This document is crucial for any future legal proceedings. Also, report the incident to the rideshare company through their app or customer service line.
Collect information: Gather contact information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver, other drivers, and witnesses. Document the vehicle details and the rideshare driver's information.
Preserve evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Keep all medical records, receipts, and any communication related to the accident.
Avoid discussing fault: Do not make statements about the accident or admit fault. These statements can be used against you later.
Contact a rideshare accident attorney lawyer: Consulting with a rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible is crucial. A lawyer can help protect your rights, navigate the claims process, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other accident-related expenses.

Understanding rideshare company policies

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have specific policies and procedures in place for handling accidents. Understanding these policies is essential for navigating the aftermath of a crash:

Accident reporting

Rideshare companies require drivers to report any accidents through their app or customer service. This step is vital for initiating the insurance claims process.

Insurance claims

Depending on the driver's status at the time of the accident (not logged in, logged in without a passenger, or carrying a passenger), different insurance policies may apply. These include personal insurance, the rideshare company's liability coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Driver conduct

Rideshare companies have standards for driver conduct and safety. If a driver violates these standards, it can impact the company's liability and your compensation.

Who is responsible for my medical bills after a rideshare accident?

Responsibility for medical bills depends on the specifics of the accident. If the rideshare driver is at fault, the rideshare company's insurance may cover your medical expenses. If another driver is at fault, their insurance may be responsible. In cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company's uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply.

What if the rideshare driver was not at fault?

Even if the rideshare driver was not at fault, you might still be entitled to compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance. Again, rideshare companies often have policies that provide coverage for passengers, regardless of fault. An attorney can help determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Can I sue both the driver and the rideshare company?

Yes, in some cases, you can pursue claims against both the rideshare driver and the rideshare company. This may be applicable if the driver's negligence caused the accident and if the rideshare company failed to uphold safety standards. Your attorney can help identify all liable parties and pursue compensation from each.

Contact a Los Angeles rideshare accident attorney today

If you've been injured in an accident involving a Lyft or Uber driver, it's crucial to have experienced legal representation on your side. At Oaks Law Firm, our dedicated Los Angeles rideshare accident attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

We will handle every aspect of your rideshare accident claim or lawsuit, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Don't wait to get the assistance you need—contact us today for a free case evaluation and let us advocate for your best interests. With offices in Sherman Oaks and Woodland Hills, we offer legal representation to clients in the San Fernando Valley, LA County, and throughout Southern California. We also offer a no fee guarantee to our clients, which means if we don’t win your case, you pay nothing.