Advocating For Victims Injured In A Rideshare Accident

While ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to get around, they can still put riders at risk of a serious accident. When a rideshare driver’s negligent actions causes an accident, it can be scary and confusing as the passenger. If you’ve been injured in the accident, you may worry about how you can seek compensation. Who exactly can be held accountable?

At Van Blois & Associates, our experienced accident injury lawyers are familiar with California rideshare laws and accident claims. We represent clients throughout the Bay Area, Central Valley and northern California with these complex cases and are committed to helping you resolve your own.

Holding Rideshare Drivers Accountable

Rideshare drivers have a responsibility to provide a safe commute for their passengers. If they engaged in negligent actions that caused an accident that resulted in your harm, they can be held liable for the accident. Pursuing a claim against a rideshare driver can help you recover compensation for the following:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

In some cases, their may be multiple parties responsible for a rideshare accident, such as another driver on the road or even the rideshare company. Determining fault requires thorough investigation into the accident and reviewing of evidence, including police reports and eyewitness statements.

Our rideshare accident lawyers aren’t afraid to stand up against rideshare drivers and rideshare companies. We will fight for your right to compensation that covers the full extent of your injuries so that you get what you deserve to help you heal and move forward after your accident.

Frequently Asked Rideshare Accident Questions

Rideshare accidents can be confusing to navigate because drivers are tied to their employers. We understand how complex these cases can be and offer answers to the most common questions we receive from clients below.

What insurance coverage applies in a Uber accident?

In California, all drivers are required to have liability insurance coverage, which helps pay for damages and injuries to anyone injured in an accident caused by the at-fault driver. Uber and Lyft drivers should have this type of coverage as a regular California commuter. On top of this coverage, Uber and Lyft also offer insurance coverage if their drivers are in an accident in certain circumstances:

• If the rideshare driver is available or waiting for a ride request
• If the rideshare driver is in route to pick up a rider and during trips

If the rideshare driver’s app is offline or turned off, then Uber or Lyft do not provide any additional coverage. In the other two instances, they may provide anywhere between $50,000 to $1 million in third-party liability coverage for the injured parties.

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident lawsuit?

If you’re injured in a Lyft accident, you need to act quickly to seek compensation. The statute of limitations in California for rideshare accidents is the same as other personal injury accidents: two years. While this may seem like plenty of time, it’s always better to file a claim sooner rather than later so that your lawyer can gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case as soon as possible.

What should I do after a rideshare accident?

Getting into an accident as a rideshare passenger can be scary. Knowing what steps you should take, you can help protect your safety and your interests. Here’s what to remember:

• Get to safety and call the police: Once you’re out of harm’s way, it’s important to report the accident to the police, like with any other car accident. The police can also send for an ambulance if there is anyone injured. They will also file a police report, which you can request a copy of when pursuing a claim.
• Get the driver’s information: Make sure to collect the driver’s contact information, insurance information and license plate number. You should also take the time to get eyewitness statements and their contact information as well if you’re able.
• Report the accident to the rideshare company: Reporting the accident with Uber or Lyft is crucial in rideshare accidents. If the rideshare company is aware of the accident, they can help cover your injuries with their insurance coverage.
• Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene to provide additional evidence of what occurred. You may also want to take a screenshot of the Uber or Lyft app with your trip details so you have proof that you were indeed a passenger during the time of the accident.
• Get medical attention: Visit a doctor as soon as possible to make sure you are treated for any injuries.
• Consult a rideshare accident lawyer: Avoid talking with any insurance companies or the rideshare company before speaking with a rideshare accident lawyer. An attorney will help you get the compensation you deserve instead of settling for a settlement that doesn’t consider the full scope of your injuries.

By remembering these steps and maintaining a clear head after an accident, you can act accordingly and take crucial steps that will help you build a strong rideshare accident claim.

Consult With Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers Today

Rideshare accidents can be overwhelming and stressful. We understand how difficult navigating the aftermath of such an event can be and aim to ease the stress from your shoulders. You are entitled to compensation after an accident, and we will advocate on your behalf to achieve a positive outcome.

Call our firm today at 510-343-9570 or send us an email online.