Untangling Uber and Lyft Liability in L.A.

In Los Angeles, rideshare services are as ubiquitous as palm trees. They provide a convenient alternative to driving, but when rideshare vehicles are involved in collisions, determining who is responsible can be challenging. If you are injured in a rideshare accident—as a passenger, another driver or a pedestrian—you need to understand how insurance coverage works and what steps to take to protect your rights. This article demystifies rideshare accident claims in Los Angeles and explains how to pursue fair compensation.

Uber and Lyft categorize their drivers as independent contractors, and coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. When the driver is offline, only their personal insurance applies. When the driver is logged into the app but has not accepted a ride, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage. Once a ride is accepted or the passenger is in the vehicle, a $1 million commercial policy covers injuries and property damage. Determining which phase was in effect is critical for identifying the applicable insurance coverage.

Immediate Steps After a Rideshare Crash

After a rideshare accident in Los Angeles, prioritize safety and documentation:

• Call 911: Request police and medical assistance. A police report provides an objective account of the accident.
• Record the ride details: Take screenshots showing the driver’s name, license plate and ride status. Save confirmation emails or receipts.
• Gather evidence: Photograph the vehicles, road conditions and injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
• Seek medical evaluation: Even minor discomfort can signal an injury that needs treatment. Medical records link your injuries to the accident.
• Notify the rideshare company: Report the accident through the app or website and save any responses.

Avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements to insurers without legal counsel. Rideshare companies and insurers may twist your words to reduce or deny your claim.

Determining Liability and Navigating Insurance

Liability may be shared among the rideshare driver, other drivers, vehicle manufacturers or governmental entities responsible for road maintenance. California’s comparative negligence law will adjust your recovery based on your percentage of fault, but the rideshare policy phases will determine which insurers pay. A Los Angeles attorney can analyze the police report, app data and witness statements to identify liable parties and available coverage. They can also pursue additional benefits, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Given the volume of rideshare vehicles in Los Angeles, attorneys often see patterns in how these companies handle claims. Leveraging their experience can help you anticipate challenges and avoid common pitfalls during negotiations and litigation.

Conclusion: Get Help to Protect Your Rights

Rideshare accidents in Los Angeles involve layers of insurance and complex liability rules. By documenting the crash thoroughly, seeking prompt medical care and consulting an experienced attorney, you can protect your rights and seek fair compensation. For assistance with your rideshare claim, reach out to car accident attorney in Los Angeles. With legal support, you can focus on recovery while your advocate navigates the claims process on your behalf.