Rideshare services like Lyft and Uber have become a convenient way to get around the San Fernando Valley and communities throughout Los Angeles County. However, car accidents involving rideshare drivers can lead to serious injuries and present unique legal challenges. If you were hurt in a crash involving a Lyft or Uber driver in Southern California, navigating the process of recovering financial compensation for your medical bills and other related expenses can be daunting.
At Oaks Law Firm, our experienced Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. We have extensive experience handling these complicated cases and ensure that injured passengers, drivers, and pedestrians receive the legal support they need.
Whether the rideshare driver, another motorist, or a combination of factors caused the accident, our Uber accident lawyers are committed to advocating for your best interests and securing the best possible outcome for your case.
Rideshare accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which involve negligent behavior or inadequate safety measures. Some of the most frequent causes include:
Driver distraction
Rideshare drivers often use navigation apps and communicate with passengers, which can lead to distractions. Looking at a phone or engaging in conversation can take the driver’s attention off the road, increasing the risk of an accident.
Fatigue
Many rideshare drivers work long hours or drive during late-night shifts to maximize their earnings. Fatigue can impair a driver’s reaction time, decision-making abilities, and overall alertness, making accidents more likely.
Speeding
To complete more rides and increase their earnings, some drivers may exceed speed limits or drive too fast for road conditions. Speeding reduces the time available to react to hazards and increases the severity of crashes.
Poor vehicle maintenance
Rideshare vehicles must be well-maintained to ensure passenger safety. Neglecting routine maintenance, such as checking brakes, tires, and lights, can lead to mechanical failures and accidents.
Inadequate driver training
Not all rideshare drivers receive formal training on safe driving practices or how to handle emergency situations. Lack of experience and training can contribute to poor decision-making and increase the risk of accidents.
If you are hurt in a rideshare accident in California, taking the right steps immediately afterward can protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have specific policies and procedures in place for handling accidents. Understanding these policies is essential for navigating the aftermath of a crash:
Accident reporting
Rideshare companies require drivers to report any accidents through their app or customer service. This step is vital for initiating the insurance claims process.
Insurance claims
Depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident (not logged in, logged in without a passenger, or carrying a passenger), different insurance policies may apply. These include personal insurance, the rideshare company’s liability coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Driver conduct
Rideshare companies have standards for driver conduct and safety. If a driver violates these standards, it can impact the company’s liability and your compensation.
Responsibility for medical bills depends on the specifics of the accident. If the rideshare driver is at fault, the rideshare company’s insurance may cover your medical expenses. If another driver is at fault, their insurance may be responsible. In cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply.
Even if the rideshare driver was not at fault, you might still be entitled to compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance. Again, rideshare companies often have policies that provide coverage for passengers, regardless of fault. An attorney can help determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Yes, in some cases, you can pursue claims against both the rideshare driver and the rideshare company. This may be applicable if the driver’s negligence caused the accident and if the rideshare company failed to uphold safety standards. Your attorney can help identify all liable parties and pursue compensation from each.
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a Lyft or Uber driver, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation on your side. At Oaks Law Firm, our dedicated Los Angeles rideshare accident attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
We will handle every aspect of your rideshare accident claim or lawsuit, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Don’t wait to get the assistance you need—contact us today for a free case evaluation and let us advocate for your best interests. With offices in Sherman Oaks and Woodland Hills, we offer legal representation to clients in the San Fernando Valley, LA County, and throughout Southern California. We also offer a no fee guarantee to our clients, which means if we don’t win your case, you pay nothing.
