Rideshare accidents can cause more than physical injuries and financial burdens; they can leave questions unanswered. Who’s responsible for your medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering? Is it the driver, the ridesharing company, or someone else? That answer depends on the circumstances of your accident.
Here’s what you need to know to protect your rights.
Who Pays for the Damages After a Car Crash in Los Angeles?
In Los Angeles, the driver at fault for the car crash is typically responsible for paying for the damages. California follows an “at-fault” system, meaning the insurance of the driver who caused the accident covers property damage and injuries.
However, you can only have the right to compensation after an auto collision if the following are true in your situation:
- Reckless or Negligent Behavior: Whether it was the Uber driver or another motorist, someone acted carelessly, perhaps by speeding, texting while driving, or failing to pay attention.
- Direct Cause of the Accident: That negligent behavior directly led to the collision.
- Tangible Losses and Suffering: As a result, you’ve endured physical, emotional, or financial hardships. This could include emergency room visits, long-term medical treatment, lost wages, or ongoing emotional trauma.
What Happens If an Auto Crash Involved a Rideshare Driver?
At-fault drivers are usually responsible for the damages they cause in a crash. The same applies to rideshare drivers: if a rideshare driver causes an accident, they can be held liable for your injuries and other losses.
But it’s not always that simple. Rideshare accidents can involve multiple layers of insurance coverage depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. For example:
- If the rideshare app is off, the driver’s personal insurance typically applies.
- If the app was on but no passenger was in the car, the rideshare company (like Uber or Lyft) may provide limited liability coverage.
- If the driver was carrying a passenger or en route to pick one up, then the rideshare company’s $1 million insurance policy usually kicks in.
These situations can get complicated fast. Liability may be shared between the driver, the rideshare company, or even other motorists involved.
To protect yourself, it is important to speak with a Los Angeles rideshare accident attorney who understands how to deal with these insurance policies and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Rideshare Insurance Coverage Explained
While rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for a rideshare accident, the extent of that coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
Uber Insurance Coverage
- Offline (App off): The driver’s personal insurance applies.
- Period 1 (App on, no ride accepted yet):
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $30,000 for property damage
- $200,000 in supplemental liability coverage
- Periods 2 & 3 (Ride accepted/picking up or transporting passengers):
- $1 million in commercial auto insurance
- $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Learn more: Uber Insurance Coverage
Lyft Insurance Coverage
Offline (App off): The driver’s personal insurance applies.
Period 1 (App on, no ride accepted yet):
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $30,000 for property damage
Periods 2 & 3 (Ride accepted/picking up or transporting passengers):
- $1 million in commercial auto insurance
- $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Learn more: Lyft Insurance Coverage
The Driver’s Working Status Matters
Based on the coverage, the damages covered by a rideshare company’s insurance depend on whether the driver is actively working. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Not logged in to the app: No coverage from Uber or Lyft applies. Example: If a rideshare driver hits another vehicle while running personal errands and is not logged into the app, they must rely on their personal auto insurance.
- Logged in but awaiting a ride request: Limited coverage may apply. Example: If the driver is logged into the app but waiting for a ride request and causes an accident, Uber or Lyft’s limited liability coverage may kick in.
- En route to pick up or actively transporting passengers: Full coverage applies. Example: If a driver is on their way to pick up a passenger or has someone in the car and is involved in an accident, the company’s full insurance policy applies.
Determining the driver’s status at the time of an accident can be complicated, but our attorneys know how to identify the facts and hold the appropriate parties accountable.
Can I Sue If I’m a Passenger and My Rideshare Driver Gets into an Accident?
If you were a rideshare passenger injured in an accident, you’re often in a favorable position legally. Whether the accident was caused by the rideshare driver or by another motorist, there’s generally insurance coverage available for your claim.
- If your rideshare driver is at fault, the company’s insurance covers your damages.
- If another driver is responsible, their insurance is liable for your injuries.
- If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, rideshare insurance kicks in.
Getting fair compensation, however, isn’t automatic. You need to have the right legal advocate on your side to ensure the system works for you.
Injuries You Could Sustain in a Rideshare Accident
Rideshare accidents, such as those involving Uber, can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor discomfort to life-altering conditions. If you’ve been in a rideshare crash, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial, even if you feel fine at first.
Here are some common injuries that may result from rideshare accidents:
- Whiplash: Sudden jolts can strain the neck and back, causing discomfort or stiffness.
- Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or other areas are frequently reported.
- Head Injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have long-term effects on cognitive and physical health.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These can range from chronic pain and mobility issues to, in severe cases, paralysis.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs or internal bleeding can occur and may not present symptoms immediately.
- Cuts and Bruises: While seemingly minor, these injuries can still cause significant pain or leave lasting scars.
Even minor accidents should not be underestimated. Symptoms can sometimes appear hours or even days later, so it’s essential to stay vigilant about your health. Always err on the side of caution by consulting a medical professional, no matter how minor the incident may seem.
Prioritize your well-being, both physical and emotional, after any rideshare accident. Taking action early can make all the difference in your recovery.
What Compensation Can I Claim After a Rideshare Accident in Los Angeles?
At first glance, you might think your claim only covers medical bills or vehicle repairs. However, the impact of an accident often goes much deeper, and the law recognizes this. A skilled Los Angeles rideshare accident attorney will carefully examine your case to identify and pursue all applicable types of compensation, which may include:
Economic Damages
These are tangible financial losses resulting from the accident, such as:
- Emergency and ongoing medical expenses
- Costs for medical devices, physical therapy, or in-home care
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Lost wages during recovery
- Loss of future income if you’re unable to return to work
Non-Economic Damages
These refer to intangible losses that affect your emotional and psychological well-being, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship or intimacy
- Emotional trauma that disrupts your everyday life
Punitive Damages
In rare and severe cases, the court may award punitive damages if the at-fault party acted with extreme negligence or reckless disregard for your safety. These damages serve to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
While economic damages like medical bills and lost income are straightforward to calculate, determining the value of non-economic damages, such as emotional suffering and future losses, can be far more complex.
This is where legal expertise becomes crucial. An experienced attorney can assess the full scope of your losses and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. They can also negotiate with insurance companies and handle all legal documentation, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
What Happens When Both the Rideshare Driver and Another Motorist Share Fault?
In California, the principle of comparative negligence governs accident liability. This means fault can be divided among multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the other motorist, or even you as a passenger. Any compensation you receive may be reduced in proportion to your share of the blame, if applicable.
Here’s how it works:
- If both drivers are found equally at fault (50/50), their respective insurance companies will split the liability, and your settlement will be divided accordingly.
- If one party is deemed 80% responsible and the other 20%, the party with the higher fault will bear the majority of the damages.
- If you, as a passenger, are partially responsible (e.g., distracting the driver and being assigned 10% of the blame), your compensation would be adjusted to reflect 90% of the total amount.
Comparative negligence ensures accountability is fairly distributed, but it also means your settlement depends on how fault is determined.
What Evidence Do I Need to Prove My Case?
Rideshare companies often have powerful legal teams ready to shift blame and make you appear liable, especially if you lack strong evidence or familiarity with the legal process. To build a compelling case, gathering solid evidence is essential. Here’s what you should collect:
- Medical records and bills
- Police and accident reports
- Witness statements
- Photos and videos from the accident scene
- Expert testimony
We understand that dealing with the aftermath of an accident is overwhelming, let alone managing legal challenges. That’s where we step in. Rideshare accident law firms like ours handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery. Our dedicated team will work relentlessly to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.
How Soon Should You File a Personal Injury Claim in California?
California has strict deadlines for filing personal injury and property damage claims, so it’s important to act within the legal timeframes to protect your right to compensation.
- For property damage claims, you have up to three years from the date of damage to file.
- For personal injury claims, California law requires filing within two years of the accident.
This ensures injured individuals have time to seek medical care and treatment. Filing early is critical, as delays can lead to lost evidence that could weaken your case. Claims filed after the two-year deadline risk dismissal by a judge, avoiding your request for compensation.
Sometimes, injuries from an accident don’t show up right away. If that happens, you can still file a claim as long as you can prove the accident caused the injury. But don’t wait too long; it gets harder to gather evidence over time. Seeing a doctor quickly can help spot hidden injuries and make your case stronger.
How Are Rideshare Accidents Different from Other Car Accidents?
Rideshare accidents often involve more complexities than standard car accidents due to the involvement of additional parties.
While typical car accidents usually involve only the drivers and their respective insurance providers, rideshare accidents introduce potential liability for the rideshare companies themselves. This means you may have to deal with insurers experienced in protecting these corporations against costly payouts.
In most car accidents, there are two primary types of claims: personal injury claims and property damage claims.
- Personal injury claims are filed by anyone injured in the accident
- Property damage claims generally cover vehicle repairs or replacement.
However, if you’re a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you’re unlikely to need to file a property damage claim since the car doesn’t belong to you.
Moreover, when dealing with rideshare companies and their powerful legal teams, having a skilled rideshare accident attorney on your side can be beneficial.
While hiring an attorney isn’t mandatory, going without one can often pose greater risks and potential losses since you have limited knowledge and experience going against strong legal teams and corporations. An experienced lawyer can thoroughly analyze your case, accurately calculate your damages, and provide strong advocacy in court to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How Much Do Rideshare Accident Lawyers Charge in Los Angeles?
Rideshare accident lawyers typically charge a service fee of 33-40% of your settlement. The percentage varies depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, the legal resources used, and others.
Example 1: Simple Accident with 33% Fee
Jason was a passenger in a Lyft when it was rear-ended at a stoplight in San Diego. He suffered minor whiplash and some bruising. The rideshare driver was clearly not at fault, and the case was settled quickly without going to court.
- Total Settlement: $30,000
- Attorney’s Fee (33%): $9,900
- Jason’s Take-Home (after fees & minor expenses): ~$19,500
Because the case was straightforward, the attorney charged a lower fee and resolved the claim relatively quickly.
Example 2: Severe Accident with 40% Fee
Maria was riding in an Uber in Los Angeles when another car T-boned the vehicle at high speed. She sustained serious injuries, including a broken pelvis and a concussion, requiring surgery and long-term therapy. The case involved months of investigation, expert witnesses, and eventually went to mediation.
- Total Settlement: $400,000
- Attorney’s Fee (40%): $160,000
- Maria’s Take-Home (after fees & medical liens): ~$210,000
Because the case was complex and resource-intensive, the attorney charged a higher contingency fee, but Maria still walked away with a substantial amount that covered her recovery and lost wages.
Understanding Contingency Fees
It is important to note that most attorneys don’t require any upfront payment. Instead, they work on a contingency fee basis.
A contingency fee means that rideshare accident lawyers only collect a percentage of your settlement or jury award after successfully winning your case.
This fee arrangement ensures you only pay if they secure compensation on your behalf. If they are unsuccessful, you owe nothing for their services. This structure provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your recovery while they handle your case.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Los Angeles
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, there are several critical steps to take before you can file any claims for damages. Follow these guidelines to protect your rights and ensure a smooth claims process:
- Notify the authorities
If anyone is injured or if there’s significant property damage, call the Los Angeles police immediately. Having an official report is essential for any future claims.
- Ensure safety
Check for injuries at the scene and, if possible, move anyone at risk to a safe location.
- Document everything
Gather as much evidence as you can. Take clear photos of vehicle damage, visible injuries, and the accident scene. Collect contact information from all involved parties and any witnesses willing to provide statements.
- Report the accident to your insurance provider.
Contact your insurance company within 24 hours to report the incident. They’ll help you file the necessary paperwork, including forms required by the DMV within a specified timeframe.
- Seek medical attention
Even if you don’t feel injured, visit a medical professional to check for underlying issues. Prompt treatment ensures injuries can be directly linked to the accident. Save all medical records, prescriptions, and bills for your claim.
- Consult rideshare accident lawyers.
An experienced rideshare accident attorney can help you calculate damages, navigate the claims process, and secure the compensation you deserve.
By taking these steps, you’ll be better prepared to handle the aftermath of a rideshare accident and protect your legal and financial interests.
Protect Your Rights with the Law Offices of Larry H. Parker
If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t gamble with your future. The path to securing what’s fair isn’t always straightforward, but with the right team in your corner, you don’t have to worry about navigating it alone.
At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, our rideshare accident lawyers have handled countless Uber and Lyft cases across California. Whether you need guidance or help filing a claim after a rideshare accident, we’ll fight for maximum compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What can a Los Angeles rideshare accident attorney do for you?
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
- Determine liability and navigate complex rideshare insurance policies.
- Negotiate with insurance companies for maximum compensation.
- Represent you in court, if necessary.
- Ensure you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Get the answers and aggressive representation you need today. Call us at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation. We’re here to advocate for YOU.
Don’t let insurance companies pressure you — a skilled car accident lawyer can protect your rights. Consultation is free.
What Our Clients Say About Us
While many personal injury lawyers may accept your case and build a legal defense, none will champion your cause as fiercely as we do. Our California rideshare accident attorneys are exceptionally well-equipped to create a flawless claim, as affirmed by our previous clients:
“Great overall experience. Paralegal and staff were thorough and clear, easy to understand the legal process, and quick response time. Completely recommended for personal injury cases.” -Diana E.
Frequently Asked Questions
Accidents may be upsetting and complicated, leaving everyone involved with questions about their rights, obligations, and legal alternatives. Understanding the aftermath of an accident is critical for safeguarding your rights and getting proper compensation, regardless of whether you are the driver, passenger, or pedestrian.
If you have further questions, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about road accidents.
- Everyone Should Be Aware of This Potential Cause of Injury in a Rideshare Vehicle
- California Personal Injury Settlements: Taxable or Not?
- Liability in Flashing Yellow Light Intersection Collisions
- Who is Liable for Medical Bills in a Rideshare Accident?
References
Bieber J. D., C. (2023, January 27). What Is An At-Fault Accident? Forbes.com. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/auto-accident/at-fault-accident/
comparative negligence | Wex | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute. (n.d.). Law.Cornell.Edu. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/comparative_negligence
Insurance coverage while driving with Lyft. (n.d.). Lyft. https://help.lyft.com/hc/en-us/all/articles/115013080548-Insurance-Policy
Insurance for Rideshare and Delivery Drivers. (n.d.). Uber. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://www.uber.com/us/en/drive/insurance/
Personal injury cases. (n.d.). California Courts | Self Help. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/civil-lawsuit/personal-injury
