With the rise of Uber and Lyft, hopping into a rideshare has become as routine as grabbing a cup of coffee. But what happens when something goes wrong and you get injured while getting into or out of that vehicle?
It might not sound like a big deal until it happens to you. A sudden fall while entering the car, getting clipped by another driver while exiting, or slipping on a wet curb—all of these can leave you seriously hurt, stuck with medical bills, and unsure of who’s responsible.
At West Coast Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers, we’ve helped countless rideshare injury victims navigate the legal maze and recover what they deserve. If you or a loved one was hurt during a rideshare pickup or drop-off, here’s what you need to know.
Who’s Liable If You’re Injured Entering or Exiting an Uber or Lyft?
This is the question we get the most and the answer can be complicated.
Rideshare Driver Responsibility
Rideshare drivers have a legal obligation to ensure you get in and out of the vehicle safely. That means stopping in a legal, safe, and accessible spot—not double-parked on a busy street or halfway into an intersection. If they fail to do this and you get hurt, they may be held liable.
Some common driver errors include:
- Stopping in unsafe locations
- Failing to assist passengers with mobility issues
- Moving the vehicle while you’re still entering or exiting
If any of these apply, that driver could be legally responsible for your injuries.
Another Driver May Be at Fault
Let’s say you open the door to get out and another car speeds by and hits it—or worse, hits you. In this case, that third-party driver may be liable. California law requires drivers to be cautious around stopped vehicles and watch for opening doors. If they fail to do so, they may be the ones on the hook.
Uber or Lyft Themselves
This part is tricky. Uber and Lyft often argue that their drivers are “independent contractors,” not employees—which is how they try to dodge liability. However, in California, Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) and recent court rulings have started shifting this landscape.
The good news? Both Uber and Lyft offer $1 million in liability coverage when a ride is in progress. So even if the driver isn’t technically an employee, you may still be covered by their insurance if you’re hurt.
When Do These Injuries Typically Happen?
You’d be surprised how many of these cases happen during “non-driving” moments. Here’s when and where we see most incidents occur:
While Entering the Vehicle
- Tripping on curbs, uneven pavement, or obstructions
- Falling into the car because the driver stopped too far from the curb
- Getting hit by oncoming traffic while stepping off the sidewalk
While Exiting the Vehicle
- Slipping on wet or icy pavement
- Opening the door into moving traffic
- Losing balance due to the vehicle being parked on a slope or at an odd angle
- Driver pulling away before you’re fully out
These are dangerous moments when your attention is divided—and drivers have a legal duty to make sure you’re safe.
What Should You Do Right After an Injury?
The first few moments after an injury are absolutely crucial. Here’s what we tell every client:
1. Get Medical Help Immediately
Even if you feel “okay,” go see a doctor. Adrenaline masks pain, and many injuries—especially head trauma and soft tissue damage—can take hours or days to fully show up.
2. Document Everything
- Take pictures of the scene
- Snap photos of your injuries
- Record the Uber/Lyft driver’s name and license plate
- Save the ride receipt from the app
- Get names and contact info of any witnesses
The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.
3. Report the Incident to Uber or Lyft
Both apps have built-in ways to report safety incidents. Do it ASAP. This creates a timestamped record that may support your claim later on.
Can You File a Claim Against Uber or Lyft?
Yes, and here’s how it usually works:
Their Insurance Policies
When a ride is active (meaning the driver has accepted your trip and is en route, or you’re in the car), Uber and Lyft carry up to $1 million in third-party liability insurance. This may cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
However, getting access to that money isn’t automatic. These companies have massive legal teams and insurance adjusters trained to minimize payouts.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
If Uber or Lyft—or one of their drivers—refuses to take responsibility, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit. That’s where West Coast Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers come in. We’ll investigate your case, gather the evidence, and fight aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve. For a more in-depth guide click here.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Rideshare Injury Claim?
It is absolutely recommended to get a lawyer for a rideshare accident, because Uber and Lyft aren’t just tech companies, they’re corporate giants with billions in revenue and deep legal benches. When you go up against them alone, you’re at a major disadvantage.
We’ve taken on these companies and won. We know how to navigate their insurance policies, expose unsafe driver behavior, and fight back when they try to deny fault. Plus, we don’t get paid unless you win. So there’s zero risk in reaching out for a free consultation.
Let’s Talk Compensation—What Are You Entitled To?
Depending on your case, you may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills (emergency care, surgery, rehab, etc.)
- Lost wages (if your injury kept you from working)
- Pain and suffering
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Emotional distress
Every case is different, but the bottom line is: if someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you shouldn’t have to pay the price.
Injured in a Rideshare Accident? We Got Your Back!
If you’ve been injured while getting into or out of an Uber or Lyft, don’t wait. Time matters, evidence disappears, and insurance companies get tougher the longer you wait.
Let West Coast Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers step in, take the weight off your shoulders, and fight for the compensation you deserve. We’re not afraid of big corporations and we don’t back down from a challenge.
Call us today at (213)-465-8682 or fill out our quick contact form. We’re here 24/7, and we don’t get paid unless you win.
FAQs
What if the Uber Driver Drove off Before I Was Fully in the Car
If the driver moved the car before ensuring your safety, they could be held liable. We can help you file a claim.
Can I Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?
It depends on the case. While they classify drivers as contractors, their insurance often applies. We can explore both options.
What if Another Car Hit Me While I Was Getting Out?
You may be able to pursue a claim against that driver—and we’ll also check if Uber or Lyft shares any responsibility.
What if the Accident Happened on Private Property?
That can add another layer of complexity. Liability could fall on the property owner, driver, or rideshare company.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally two years, but don’t wait—building your case starts now.
