Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers In California
Ridesharing Accidents and Why Choose The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker
Normally, ride-sharing services like Uber offer a very convenient and user-friendly experience. However, this may change if your Uber driver gets into an accident. You could be left dealing with serious injuries, without much support and guidance from Uber regarding your next steps. If Uber’s insurance doesn’t offer you a settlement—or if that settlement is inadequate—you may not know where to turn for help.
You may be able to find experienced legal representation at The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker. Over the past 50 years, the firm has:
- Represented over 100,000 clients
- Recovered over $2 billion in compensation for clients*
- Handled numerous personal injury cases across California
Our legal team has experience handling rideshare passenger accident claims. If you choose to retain our firm, we can begin reviewing your case and helping you understand your legal options. We may also assist you in locating appropriate medical care and reviewing options for addressing medical bills and other expenses while you are unable to work.
We are here to help you – call 800-333-0000 to learn more about your rights and options during a consultation.
*Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.
Uber and Lyft Car Accident: Uber’s Policy and Liability Insurance
- To avoid responsibility for any injuries caused in a crash, Uber designates its drivers as “independent contractors” instead of employees. However, commercial liability insurance for passengers may provide coverage of up to $1 million per ride, depending on the circumstances.
- Uber distinguishes itself from taxi cab businesses by defining itself as a technology provider rather than a transportation or automotive service. This distinction can sometimes make it more difficult for accident victims to pursue claims directly with the company.
- Uber can also be difficult to contact directly. Victims may reach out to Uber customer service through email or social media, but responses may vary. Lawyers familiar with rideshare accident cases may assist in communicating with rideshare companies and their drivers.
- All Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), including Uber, must comply with California law’s standards for insurance coverage. The business may provide $50,000, $100,000, or $25,000 in supplemental coverage in certain circumstances when the driver is logged into the app but not actively transporting a passenger.
- Pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who sustain injuries in an Uber-related accident may also have potential claims. In addition to Uber’s coverage, victims who are not passengers may pursue compensation through other applicable insurance policies.
Reasons You May Consider a Ridesharing Accident Lawyer
To protect their financial interests, insurance providers often investigate claims thoroughly and may rely on investigators, specialists, and other professionals during the claims process. Some individuals choose to consult a lawyer to help evaluate their claim and respond to insurance inquiries.
A rideshare accident lawyer may assist in reviewing the facts of your case, gathering evidence, and communicating with insurers during settlement discussions or litigation if necessary.
Law firms handling rideshare accident cases may use various resources such as data collection tools, litigation support staff, and legal research to review claims and manage the legal process.
Ridesharing Liability Problem
Both Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for injured passengers. However, the situation may become more complicated when other drivers or pedestrians are involved in an accident.
Coverage may extend to incidents that occur between rides, but only if the driver’s personal insurance policy does not cover the accident. This can raise several questions:
What happens if an accident’s damages exceed the driver’s insurance coverage? What or who fills this insurance gap? Is the victim required to rely on available insurance resources?
A Difficult Legal Problem
Third-party liability insurance issues in the ridesharing industry can be complex, and legislators in several states—including California—have examined rideshare insurance policies and regulations.
Because laws and regulations related to rideshare liability continue to develop, individuals sometimes consult lawyers who stay informed about changes in ridesharing accident liability law.
