Los Angeles Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Los Angeles—whether as a passenger, driver, pedestrian, or another driver—you need experienced legal guidance to navigate complex liability and insurance issues. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation across California’s bustling cities, but along with convenience comes the risk of accidents that can lead to serious injuries and costly damages. At Culver Legal, our dedicated Los Angeles Uber & Lyft accident lawyer team specializes in helping victims secure the compensation they deserve. If you’ve suffered injuries, don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation—our experienced rideshare crash attorney California team is here to fight for your rights.

Table of Contents

1. Rideshare Accidents in Los Angeles: What You Need to Know
2. Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
3. I Was a Passenger in an Uber or Lyft — Can I File a Claim?
4. What If I Was Hit by a Rideshare Driver as a Pedestrian or in Another Vehicle?
5. Understanding Uber & Lyft’s Insurance Coverage
6. Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents
7. What Compensation Can I Recover After an Uber or Lyft Crash?
8. Can I Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?
9. What Makes Rideshare Accident Cases More Complicated?
10. What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Los Angeles
11. I Don’t Have Insurance — Can I Still File a Claim as a Rideshare Passenger?
12. What If the Rideshare Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured?
13. Do Rideshare Companies Try to Deny Responsibility?
14. How Culver Legal Can Help With Uber & Lyft Accident Claims
15. FAQs About Rideshare Accidents
16. Speak With a Los Angeles Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer Today

Rideshare Accidents in Los Angeles: What You Need to Know

Los Angeles is one of the busiest cities in the world, and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become integral to daily commutes. However, the fast-paced environment and the high volume of vehicles on the road increase the likelihood of accidents. According to recent data, thousands of rideshare-related incidents occur annually across California, with many resulting in severe injuries. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, cyclist, or pedestrian, understanding the unique legal landscape surrounding rideshare accidents is essential for protecting your rights and obtaining the compensation you deserve. Rideshare accidents rarely mirror typical car crashes; they involve complex liability issues, multiple insurers, and specific rules laid out by Uber, Lyft, and California law.

Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Determining liability in rideshare accidents is more complicated than standard motor vehicle collisions. Liability may involve the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, other drivers, or even third parties. In some cases, the rideshare driver’s personal auto insurance may cover the accident; in others, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy may step in. Liability also depends on whether the driver was actively working at the time or off-duty, as different insurance rules apply. For example, if the driver was logged into the Uber app and en route to pick up or drop off a passenger, Uber’s and Lyft’s insurance programs are typically responsible for covering damages. Conversely, if the driver was off-duty or not logged in, the driver’s personal auto insurance might be the primary source of recovery.

I Was a Passenger in an Uber or Lyft — Can I File a Claim?

Absolutely. Riders often wonder if they can pursue a legal claim after an accident, and the answer is yes. If you were injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you may have a valid uber passenger injury claim. The crash may have been caused by the other driver, the rideshare driver, or a malfunction in the vehicle. Our rideshare injury compensation lawyer in LA can investigate the circumstances, identify liable parties, and assist in filing a claim against the appropriate insurance policy. Passenger claims often involve Uber or Lyft’s insurance coverage, which is designed to protect riders in the event of an accident.

What If I Was Hit by a Rideshare Driver as a Pedestrian or in Another Vehicle?

Being hit by a rideshare driver as a pedestrian or in your own vehicle introduces a different set of legal considerations. Pedestrians injured by rideshare drivers should pursue a claim against the responsible driver’s insurance and Uber or Lyft’s policies if applicable. Similarly, if a rideshare driver hits your vehicle, your insurance may be involved, and you may also have a claim against the rideshare company. Due to the layered insurance policies and potential for multiple liable parties, it’s crucial to consult an experienced rideshare accident attorney California who understands the nuances of these cases.

Understanding Uber & Lyft’s Insurance Coverage

Both Uber and Lyft have established insurance policies that vary depending on the timing and circumstances of the accident. These policies are designed to provide coverage for injuries, property damage, and liability whenever their drivers are involved in crashes. The insurance coverage is divided into different periods, each with specific rules and limits.

Period 1: Driver Not Logged In / Awaiting Ride

This period covers times when the driver has the Uber or Lyft app turned on but is not yet logged into a trip or waiting to accept a ride. During this period, the driver’s auto insurance is typically the primary coverage, though Uber and Lyft’s insurance might provide some minimal liability protection in case of certain damages.

Period 2: Driver En Route During an Accepted Ride

Once the driver has accepted a ride and is actively transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up, Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies usually provide primary coverage for injuries and damages. For rideshare accident claims in Los Angeles, this period is crucial because the company’s $1 million liability coverage often kicks in.

Period 3: Driver Off-Duty or Not Using the App

If the driver was off-duty or not logged into the service at the time of the accident, the driver’s auto insurance takes precedence. However, some personal policies may deny coverage if they discover the vehicle was being used for ridesharing, which can complicate claims.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare crashes can result in a wide array of injuries, many of which require extensive medical treatment. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, lacerations, and burns. The impact of a crash often causes passengers and drivers alike to sustain long-term disabilities or chronic pain, significantly affecting their quality of life. Given the diversity and severity of injuries, it’s essential to seek prompt medical care after an accident and consult a best rideshare injury lawyer in LA to assess your case.

What Compensation Can I Recover After an Uber or Lyft Crash?

If you’ve suffered injuries in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages and income
• Pain and suffering
• Disability benefits
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Property damage
• Funeral expenses in cases of fatalities

Our Uber accident settlement Los Angeles team can evaluate your damages, gather evidence, and help maximize your injury compensation lawyer. California law provides significant protections for accident victims, but the process can be complex and may require navigating multiple insurance claims.

Can I Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?

Typically, riders or other injured parties cannot sue Uber or Lyft directly for accidents caused by their drivers because of the contractual agreements and insurance policies in place. Instead, victims usually file claims against the driver’s auto policy or Uber/Lyft’s insurance, depending on the circumstances.

However, if Uber or Lyft’s negligence contributed to the crash, such as poor driver screening, inadequate training, or failure to enforce safety policies, you might have grounds to pursue a liability claim directly against the company. Consulting with a seasoned rideshare accident attorney in California can clarify whether such a claim is viable in your case.

What Makes Rideshare Accident Cases More Complicated?

Compared to traditional auto accidents, rideshare injury cases involve layered insurance policies, multiple liable parties, and strict company policies. The timing of the accident (whether the driver was on-duty or off-duty) impacts which insurance policy applies. Additionally, proving fault might involve analyzing digital logs, app data, and driver conduct. Uber and Lyft are also known to contest claims aggressively, seeking to limit their liability. Therefore, enlisting an experienced best rideshare injury lawyer in LA is crucial for navigating these complexities effectively.

What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Los Angeles

If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:

1. Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
2. Report the accident to local authorities and ensure an official police report is completed.
3. Gather evidence—photos, videos, witness contacts, and app logs.
4. Obtain contact and insurance information from the other parties involved.
5. Notify Uber or Lyft about the incident through their app or customer service channels.
6. Consult a rideshare accident attorney California to review your case before settling or making statements.

Handling these steps promptly can establish a strong foundation for your injury claim and help ensure you’re fully compensated for your damages.

I Don’t Have Insurance — Can I Still File a Claim as a Rideshare Passenger?

Yes, you can still file a claim for damages even if you don’t carry auto insurance. When you’re injured traveling as a passenger, Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies are designed to provide coverage—up to the policy limits—regardless of your own insurance status. An experienced rideshare injury compensation lawyer can help you navigate the process and pursue maximum compensation.

What If the Rideshare Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured?

In cases where the rideshare driver lacks insurance or is underinsured, Uber and Lyft’s policies often step in to cover damages. California law requires rideshare companies to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which can provide crucial protection. However, proving the driver’s lack of insurance or underinsurance—and establishing your damages—requires skilled legal guidance.

Do Rideshare Companies Try to Deny Responsibility?

Yes, both Uber and Lyft have, at times, contested liability, claiming that their drivers are independent contractors responsible for their actions. These companies also scrutinize claims to limit payout, sometimes delaying or denying compensation altogether. An experienced Uber Lyft injury compensation lawyer in LA knows how to counter such tactics and hold these companies accountable when they are negligent.

How Culver Legal Can Help With Uber & Lyft Accident Claims

Our firm specializes in handling complex rideshare accident cases in Los Angeles. We understand the ins and outs of Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies, California traffic laws, and the tactics used by the companies to limit liability. When you choose Culver Legal, you gain a dedicated team ready to investigate your crash, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for maximum compensation. With a track record of successful case results, we’re committed to protecting your rights and helping you rebuild after injury.

FAQs About Rideshare Accidents

Q: How long do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident in California?

A: The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s best to act promptly to preserve evidence and strengthen your case.

Q: What should I do if my rideshare driver was negligent?

A: Document the incident, seek medical care, and contact an experienced rideshare accident attorney in Los Angeles immediately to pursue your claim.

Q: Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?

A: Yes, California’s comparative negligence laws allow you to recover damages proportionate to the other liable parties’ share of fault.

Speak With a Los Angeles Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Our experienced Uber & Lyft accident lawyers in Los Angeles are here to advocate for you. We provide free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact Culver Legal today and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Additional Resources

• California Public Utilities Commission – Rideshare Info
• Uber Insurance Policy Overview
• Lyft Insurance Policy Details
• California DMV – Traffic Accident Guidelines
• NHTSA – Rideshare Safety Report