Uber and Lyft-type services have changed the way people get around Sherman Oaks. With just a tap on your phone, you can get across town without having to drive or find parking. But what if a rideshare trip goes wrong in an accident? Figuring out who’s liable can be perplexing, particularly because there are many parties and insurance policies to consider.

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability in a rideshare accident often hinges on what the driver was doing when the accident occurred:

  • Driver Not Logged Into the App: If the driver was not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, his or her auto policy pays for any damages.
  • Driver Logged In But Without a Passenger: If the driver is waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage.
  • Driver Transporting a Passenger or En Route to Pick One Up: Under such circumstances, Uber or Lyft’s $1 million commercial insurance policy would most likely come into play.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident?

If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, safeguard your rights by doing the following:

  • Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.
  • Call the Police: A report helps establish facts and liability.
  • Gather Evidence: Take photos, interview witnesses, and document whether the driver was actively using the app in active use.
  • Report the Accident: Report the incident to the rideshare company using their app. 

Can You Sue Uber or Lyft?

It is unlikely to sue Lyft or Uber directly, as drivers are designated independent contractors. Nonetheless, if the driver was working, his insurance coverage by the rideshare firm might still compensate for damages.

 

What You Can Expect to Receive as Compensation?

Based on the situation, you could be entitled to compensation that covers:

  • Medical costs
  • Income loss
  • Pain and suffering
  • Damage to property (such as car repairs)

Because these cases often involve complex insurance issues, consulting with a skilled personal injury attorney in Sherman Oaks can be key to getting the compensation you’re owed.

This article was written by Alla Tenina. Alla is one of the best tax attorneys in Los Angeles California, and the founder of Tenina Law. She has experience in bankruptcies, real estate planning, and complex tax matters. Visit www.teninalaw.com for more information. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This website contains links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser; the ABA and its members do not recommend or endorse the contents of the third-party sites.