Accidents Attorney

Rideshare Accidents: What to Do If You’re Injured in an Uber or Lyft Crash

Rideshare Accidents: What to Do If You’re Injured in an Uber or Lyft Crash

Introduction

Rideshare services like Injured in an Uber or Lyft accident have made transportation more convenient, but accidents involving these vehicles can be legally complicated. Unlike regular car accidents, liability in a rideshare crash depends on whether the driver was working, which insurance policy applies, and whether another driver was at fault.

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, here’s what you need to know about your rights, who is liable, and how to seek compensation.

1. Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents

Rideshare drivers are not professionals—they face distractions, fatigue, and pressure to complete trips quickly. Some common causes of Uber/Lyft accidents include:

🚗 Distracted Driving – Drivers often use their phones for navigation and ride requests.
🚦 Speeding & Reckless Driving – Rushing to complete more trips leads to unsafe driving.
💤 Driver Fatigue – Long shifts and late-night rides increase accident risks.
🚗💨 Other Negligent Drivers – Accidents may be caused by another reckless driver.
🚧 Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, lack of street lighting, or faulty traffic signals can contribute to crashes.

Regardless of the cause, knowing what to do next can protect your injury claim.

2. What to Do Immediately After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Taking the right steps after a rideshare accident is crucial for your health and legal case.

1️⃣ Seek Medical Attention

✔ Call 911 if you or anyone else is injured.
✔ Even if you feel fine, get checked by a doctor—some injuries appear later.

Keep medical records as they are key to your injury claim.

2️⃣ Call the Police and File a Report

📌 Why it’s important: A police report serves as an official accident record, which can help establish liability.

👮 When police arrive:
✔ Provide factual information but avoid admitting fault.
✔ Ask how to obtain a copy of the report for your records.

🚨 In California? Request your report from the California Highway Patrol.

3️⃣ Collect Evidence at the Scene

📸 Take Photos/Videos of:

  • Vehicle damage & injuries
  • Traffic signs, road conditions, & skid marks
  • Rideshare driver’s app screen (showing trip details)

👁 Talk to Witnesses: Get their names & contact information in case you need statements later.

4️⃣ Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft

✔ Uber and Lyft require accident reports through their apps:

🚨 Important: DO NOT accept a settlement before consulting a lawyer.

5️⃣ Contact a Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare claims involve complex insurance policies. An attorney can:

  • Determine who is liable
  • Handle insurance negotiations
  • Maximize your settlement

3. Who is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Determining liability depends on who caused the accident and whether the rideshare driver was on duty.

Uber & Lyft’s Insurance Coverage

Rideshare companies provide different levels of coverage depending on the driver’s status:

Driver StatusUber/Lyft Insurance Coverage
App is OFF (Not Working)The driver’s personal insurance applies. Uber/Lyft does NOT provide coverage.
App is ON, No Passenger YetUber/Lyft provides limited liability coverage: $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
Driver is En Route or Has a PassengerUber/Lyft provides $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

🚨 If another driver caused the crash: Their insurance will be responsible for damages.

4. How to File an Uber or Lyft Accident Claim

After an accident, you will need to file an insurance claim. Here’s how:

1️⃣ Identify Which Insurance Applies

  • If the rideshare driver was at fault, Uber or Lyft’s policy applies.
  • If another driver was at fault, their insurance covers damages.
  • If the driver was off-duty, their personal insurance applies.

2️⃣ File a Claim with the Insurance Company

  • Provide evidence (police report, medical records, photos).
  • Get estimates for vehicle repairs.
  • Work with an attorney to ensure fair compensation.

3️⃣ Negotiate a Settlement

Insurance companies often offer low settlements to rideshare accident victims. An attorney can:

  • Negotiate a higher settlement
  • Take your case to court if needed

📌 Don’t Accept the First Offer – Consult a lawyer before signing anything!

5. What Compensation Can You Receive?

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical Expenses – Hospital visits, surgery, rehabilitation
  • Lost Wages – If you were unable to work due to injuries
  • Pain & Suffering – Emotional and physical distress
  • Property Damage – Car repairs or replacement

📌 California’s Statute of Limitations: You have two years to file a personal injury claim after a rideshare accident.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Rights After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Being Injured in an Uber or Lyft accident can be confusing, but knowing your rights and legal options is crucial.

✅ Key Takeaways:

  • Seek medical attention and document everything.
  • Identify liability – Uber/Lyft, the driver, or another party.
  • File a strong insurance claim with the right provider.
  • Work with a lawyer to secure maximum compensation.
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