Our Approach to Rideshare Accident Cases
When overseeing rideshare accident cases, we take a focused and compassionate approach to ensure that clients feel supported at every stage. Here’s what you can expect when you work with our team:
If we’re unable to reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court and fight for justice before a judge or jury.
Types of Rideshare Accident Injuries We Handle
Injuries from Uber and Lyft accidents can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the positioning, speed, and impact of the vehicles involved. Common injuries include:
Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents
Rideshare accidents involving services like Uber and Lyft can arise from a number of factors, but they’re most often tied to driver inexperience, unsafe practices, or inadequate vehicle upkeep. Here are some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents in the San Fernando Valley:
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Distracted Driving
Rideshare drivers frequently rely on navigation apps and respond to passenger requests, and they sometimes engage in conversation, which can draw their attention away from the road and make for risky driving conditions.
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Driver Fatigue
To maximize their earnings, many rideshare drivers work long hours or take on late-night shifts, leading to fatigue that can impair their reaction time, judgment, and alertness and increase the chances of an accident.
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Speeding and Aggressive Driving
To complete rides quickly, some rideshare drivers may exceed posted speed limits or perform aggressive maneuvers, such as tailgating or making unsafe lane changes. Such actions make accidents far more likely.
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Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for rideshare vehicles. When brakes, tires, and lights are neglected, mechanical failures become a real threat, putting both drivers and passengers in harm’s way.
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Impaired Driving
Although rare, some particularly irresponsible drivers may operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications that impair judgment and reaction time, creating a potentially lethal situation.
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Weather and Road Conditions
Adverse weather like rain, fog, or ice, along with poor road conditions like potholes or unmarked lanes, can heighten driving risks. Less experienced drivers may struggle to navigate these hazards safely.
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Inexperienced Drivers
Rideshare platforms often employ drivers of varying skill levels. Less experienced drivers may lack the skills needed to anticipate road hazards, manage heavy traffic, or respond to emergencies.
Who Is Liable for a Rideshare Accident with Uber or Lyft?
Determining liability in rideshare accidents can be tricky due to the unique, multi-layered insurance structure and involvement of multiple parties. Liability may rest on the rideshare driver, another driver involved in the accident, or even a third party, like a pedestrian, cyclist, or the rideshare company itself.
Key factors, such as driver negligence, vehicle maintenance, and road conditions, can impact who is ultimately deemed responsible. In some cases, liability may be shared among several parties, which can complicate the claims process.
Types of Compensation Available for Rideshare Accidents
If you’ve been hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be eligible for compensation to help cover the costs of your injuries and other negative impacts. This compensation generally falls into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Rideshare Insurance Coverage Periods
Rideshare companies offer different levels of insurance coverage depending on the status of the rideshare driver during the accident, which affects the compensation available. Here’s a breakdown of these insurance coverage periods:
Period 0
The driver is offline and not logged into the service app. In this case, only the driver’s personal insurance applies, and the employing company’s insurance isn’t available.
Period 1
The driver is logged into the app and actively waiting for a ride request but hasn’t yet accepted one. During this period, rideshare companies provide limited coverage, generally up to $50,000 in bodily injury per person or $100,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage, as well as a contingent liability policy of up to $200,000.
Period 2
Once the driver accepts a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger, Uber or Lyft’s higher insurance coverage kicks in. This includes up to $1 million in liability coverage and uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
Period 3
When a passenger is in the vehicle, the highest level of coverage applies. As noted, this includes $1 million in liability coverage, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect both passengers and drivers.
Statute of Limitations on Uber and Lyft Accidents in California
California law sets a strict time limit for filing a personal injury claim after a rideshare accident, known as the statute of limitations.
For Uber and Lyft accidents, the deadline is typically two years from the accident date. However, if symptoms of injuries like whiplash or concussions emerge days or weeks after the accident, the clock may start from the date the injury was discovered rather than that of the accident itself.
It’s critical to act within this timeframe. Missing the statute of limitations generally bars you from having your case heard in court, meaning you effectively forfeit your right to seek compensation. To avoid missing important deadlines, it’s highly recommended that you consult a qualified accident attorney as soon as possible.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps immediately afterward can help you protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what to do:
