Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have changed the way we travel in California, getting you from LAX to a downtown meeting or home after a night out in San Diego. But when a crash interrupts your ride, the legal landscape can feel like a headache. 

At West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers, we’ve helped thousands of rideshare accident victims get millions in compensation, navigating the complexities of California law. With over 20 years of combined experience, our California rideshare accident lawyers break down what you need to know to protect your rights after an Uber or Lyft crash.

Who’s at Fault in a Rideshare Accident?

When an Uber or Lyft vehicle is involved in a crash, the first question is: who’s to blame? It could be the rideshare driver, another motorist, or, in rare cases, the rideshare company itself. California law is based on negligence (Civil Code Section 1714), so the party who was careless—say, someone who ran a red light or was on their phone—bears responsibility.

What complicates things? Rideshare drivers are independent contractors, not employees, even after Prop 22 passed in 2020. This status affects liability and insurance, often leaving victims unsure where to turn. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we untangle these knots to figure out who’s at fault and get you compensated.

How Rideshare Insurance Works in California

Uber and Lyft have insurance, but coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Here’s how it breaks down:

• App On, No Ride Accepted: The driver is logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride. Uber and Lyft offer limited liability coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident. Personal auto insurance often excludes commercial driving, leaving gaps.
• Ride Accepted, En Route to Pickup: Once a driver accepts a ride, coverage jumps to $1 million in liability, plus collision and comprehensive coverage if the driver has it personally.
• Passenger in the Car: This is the most coverage, $1 million in liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and collision coverage (if applicable). These gaps, especially in cases where the app was on but a ride is not accepted can leave potentially leave accident victims with nothing.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare crashes happen because of:

• Distracted Driving: Looking at GPS or ride requests at an intersection can be trouble.
• Fatigue: Long hours or gig juggling can make a driver drowsy, increasing crash risk.
• Unsafe Pick-Ups/Drop-Offs: Double-parking or stopping in traffic lanes is hazardous, especially in urban areas like LA or SF.

California’s Comparative Negligence Rule

California is a “pure comparative negligence” state (Code of Civil Procedure Section 1714). Even if you’re partly at fault—say, you jaywalked as a pedestrian—you can still recover, but your award is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% responsible, a $100,000 award becomes $80,000. Our California rideshare accident lawyers gather evidence to minimize your fault and maximize your payout.

Your Rights as a Rideshare Passenger

If you’re injured as an Uber or Lyft passenger, you’re covered by the company’s $1 million liability policy. In fact, you may be entitled to recover:

• Medical expenses, from ER visits to ongoing therapy
• Lost wages if you’re out of work
• Pain and suffering for emotional and physical trauma

But insurance companies will dispute fault or downplay injuries. West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers fights such tactics to get you every dollar you deserve.

Wrongful Death Claims in Rideshare Accidents

Sadly, some rideshare crashes are fatal. Surviving family members—spouses, children or parents—can file a wrongful death claim (Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60) to recover:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support* Companionship and emotional support

These cases are tough and complicated, but with a skilled lawyer by your side, they will handle these types of cases with compassion and tenacity, so families get justice.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

A crash can leave you shaken, but these steps protect your rights:

• Call 911: Report the accident, even if it seems minor, to get an official police report (required for damages over $1,000 per Vehicle Code Section 16000).
• Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicles, injuries and street signs. Get the driver’s name, license plate and ride receipt from the app.
• See a Doctor: Injuries like whiplash may not show up right away. A doctor’s visit links your injuries to the crash.
• Report to Uber or Lyft: Notify the company via their app or website to start the claims process.
• Call a Lawyer: Rideshare claims involve multiple parties and insurance companies. Don’t go it alone.

Why Rideshare Claims Are Complicated

Rideshare accidents aren’t your average fender-bender. Multiple players—drivers, rideshare companies, other motorists and insurers—create a web of liability. Add in arbitration clauses, which Uber and Lyft often use to settle disputes privately, and you’re dealing with a legal puzzle. A skilled lawyer can:

• Negotiate with insurers to avoid lowball offers
• Prove fault with evidence like traffic camera footage or witness statements
• Fight arbitration to maximize your recovery

Why Choose West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers?

When a rideshare accident upends your life, you need a team that knows California’s laws and insurance tricks. Here’s why clients trust us:

• Results: We’ve recovered millions for rideshare accident victims across California.
• No Upfront Fees: Our contingency fee model means you pay nothing unless we win.
• Local Knowledge: From San Francisco to San Diego, we know California’s roads and courts.
• Personal Attention: We treat you like family, fighting for your rights.

Don’t Go It Alone

Rideshare accidents in California come with layers of legal and insurance complexity that can overwhelm even the most prepared. Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian or another driver, knowing your rights and acting fast can make or break your case.

Contact West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers for a free, no-pressure consultation at (213)-465-8682 for a free consultation or fill out our online contact form.