Were You Hurt in an Uber or Lyft Accident? Let’s Talk About What Comes Next.
You didn’t expect your Uber or Lyft ride to end in an accident. One second, you were on your way home, work, or a night out. The next, you’re dealing with pain, medical bills, and a whole lot of questions. Who’s going to pay for this? Does Uber’s insurance cover you? What if the driver wasn’t at fault?
If this sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we help people just like you passengers, drivers, and pedestrians navigate the mess of insurance claims and legal red tape after a rideshare accident. You shouldn’t have to figure this out alone. As a personal injury lawyer in Sherman Oaks, Adrianos Facchetti and his team will fight to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident? We Can Help.
A simple Uber ride shouldn’t lead to hospital visits, lost wages, and mounting medical expenses. But if you were in a rideshare accident in Sherman Oaks, you’re probably dealing with just that. Maybe an Uber driver ran a red light, or a Lyft accident happened because another driver was texting. No matter who caused the crash, you’re now stuck with medical bills, vehicle damage, and time off work and you deserve rightful compensation.
Insurance companies will try to minimize payouts or deny your claim outright. Uber and Lyft’s coverage isn’t always clear, and you might be dealing with a negligent driver, an underinsured motorist, or multiple liable parties. That’s where we come in.
At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we fight for rideshare accident victims. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver caught in a rideshare crash, we make sure you get the compensation you deserve for medical treatment, lost income, and pain and suffering.
There’s no upfront cost to hire us. You only pay if we win. Call now to talk with a skilled rideshare accident lawyer about your case.
Sherman Oaks Rideshare Accident Statistics
Sherman Oaks sees some of the worst traffic in Los Angeles. The combination of busy freeways, heavy rideshare use, and aggressive driving makes Lyft and Uber accidents more common than people realize.
How Common Are Rideshare Accidents in California?
- Studies have shown that rideshare vehicles have contributed to a 3% increase in traffic fatalities nationwide.
- Uber and Lyft accidents account for thousands of injury claims every year in California, with many happening right here in Sherman Oaks and the San Fernando Valley.
- Data suggests that rideshare drivers are more likely to be involved in crashes due to distractions, such as navigating the rideshare app, rushing to complete ride requests, and picking up/dropping off passengers in unsafe areas.
Why Are Rideshare Accidents Increasing?
- More rideshare vehicles on public roads = more chances for accidents.
- Drivers working long hours to maximize earnings, leading to fatigue and slower reaction times.
- Limited coverage by Uber and Lyft’s insurance, which may leave injured passengers without proper compensation.
Rideshare companies want to avoid responsibility, which means accident victims need strong legal representation. If you've been hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, we can help you navigate the insurance claims process and fight for the maximum settlement you deserve.
What Should You Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident?
After a rideshare accident, everything happens fast. You might be dealing with visible injuries, minor property damage, or worse traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries that change your normal life. It’s important to act quickly to protect your legal rights.
1. Get Medical Attention - Even If You Feel Fine
Not all injuries show up immediately. Some, like severe concussions or internal organ damage, take hours or even days to become noticeable. Getting checked by a doctor right away is critical not just for your health, but for your case. If you delay, insurance adjusters might argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the crash.
2. Report the Accident
Uber and Lyft require that all accidents involving their rideshare vehicles be reported through their rideshare apps. But that’s not enough. You should also:
- Call the police and request an official police report.
- Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, visible injuries, and any other key details.
- Get contact information for all drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
3. Don’t Accept an Insurance Offer Too Soon
Insurance companies move fast after an accident, especially if they think they can offer a lowball settlement before you realize how serious your injuries are. If you accept, you might be giving up your right to pursue additional compensation later.
Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies are tricky, and the insurance company won’t tell you if you’re entitled to more money. You need a rideshare accident lawyer who understands insurance coverage, liability in rideshare accidents, and negotiations with insurance companies to make sure you aren’t getting unfair treatment.
4. Call a Skilled Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Sherman Oaks
The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of securing rightful compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs. Our firm has a track record of winning rideshare accident claims and getting maximum compensation for victims.
Understanding Uber & Lyft Insurance Coverage
After a rideshare accident, one of the biggest questions people have is: Who pays for the damages? You’d think Uber or Lyft would step in automatically, but that’s not always the case. Their insurance coverage for accidents depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.
Uber & Lyft’s Insurance Periods Explained
Rideshare insurance works in three different phases, and each one affects how much coverage is available:
- Offline (Period 0): If the rideshare app is off, the driver’s personal insurance is the only coverage available. Uber and Lyft provide zero coverage during this time.
- Period 1: The driver has the app on and is waiting for a ride request. Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage, but it may not be enough to cover all damages.
- Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up a passenger. Uber and Lyft’s full coverage applies.
- Period 3: The passenger is in the car, and the ride is active. Uber and Lyft’s $1 million liability coverage is in place.
This all sounds straightforward, but insurance companies often dispute liability or deny claims, arguing that the driver was in the wrong phase at the time of the accident. If Uber or Lyft tries to shift blame onto the driver’s personal insurance, you could end up in a frustrating battle for a fair settlement.
For example, a client of ours was injured when an Uber driver ran a red light on a busy city street. Uber’s insurance initially denied coverage, claiming the driver was between ride requests. We stepped in, provided accident reports and surveillance footage, and proved the driver was actively using the rideshare app. In the end, we secured a six-figure accident settlement for our client’s medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
If you’re facing disputes over liability or struggling to get the compensation you deserve, an experienced lawyer can make all the difference.
Determining Fault in a Rideshare Accident
Rideshare accidents can be complicated because multiple parties may be responsible. Unlike regular car crashes, liability doesn’t just fall on the drivers involved it can also include Uber, Lyft, or even third-party companies.
When the Rideshare Driver Is at Fault
If an Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident whether due to distracted driving, reckless speeding, or running a stop sign their rideshare company’s insurance should cover your damages. However, as mentioned earlier, the coverage depends on what insurance period they were in at the time.
When Uber/Lyft’s Insurance Applies
Uber and Lyft advertise their $1 million liability coverage, but that doesn’t mean they’ll pay easily. Insurance companies look for any reason to shift responsibility and pay less. An experienced attorney can step in to ensure they don’t take advantage of you.
Third-Party Driver Liability & Shared Fault Scenarios
Not all rideshare accidents are caused by Uber or Lyft drivers. Sometimes, another negligent driver like someone who was drunk or texting crashes into a rideshare vehicle. In these cases, the fault party’s insurance should cover your damages.
But what if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured? This is a common issue, especially in hit-and-run accidents. In this situation, you may need to file a claim under Uber or Lyft’s underinsured motorist coverage.
Our firm recently helped a rideshare passenger who suffered a spinal cord injury after a third-party driver ran a red light and slammed into an Uber vehicle. The at-fault driver had limited coverage, and Uber initially refused to cover the remaining damages. We used accident reconstruction teams to prove the rideshare driver followed all traffic laws, forcing Uber’s insurance to step up. The client received a maximum settlement that covered all medical costs and lost income.
If there’s any dispute over who’s responsible, we gather accident scene evidence, police reports, and surveillance footage to hold the right party accountable.
Can I Sue Uber or Lyft After an Accident?
Uber and Lyft aren’t traditional employers their drivers are considered independent contractors. This makes suing these companies more complicated than filing a standard personal injury claim. However, there are cases where you can hold Uber or Lyft legally responsible.
When You CAN Sue Uber or Lyft Directly
Uber and Lyft have a duty of care to ensure riders are safe, which means they can be held responsible if they fail to screen drivers properly or enforce safety regulations. You might have a claim against them if:
- The rideshare company hired a driver with a history of reckless driving or DUI.
- They failed to deactivate a driver after multiple safety complaints.
- Their policies encouraged unsafe driving, such as pressuring drivers to work long hours, leading to fatigue-related crashes.
A real-world example of this happened when a Lyft driver in California hit a pedestrian while using the rideshare app. The victim sued Lyft, arguing that the company’s lack of safety screening contributed to the accident. The case resulted in a significant financial compensation for the victim’s medical expenses and loss of enjoyment of life.
How Forced Arbitration Agreements Impact Lawsuits
If you’ve ever used a rideshare app, you probably agreed to forced arbitration without even realizing it. This means you might not be able to take Uber or Lyft to court instead, your case goes through a private legal process that often favors the company.
That doesn’t mean you’re out of options. An experienced attorney can still fight for a fair settlement by negotiating directly with Uber or Lyft or finding legal strategies to bypass arbitration.
What If You Can’t Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?
Even if you can’t sue the rideshare company, you can still file a personal injury claim against:
- The rideshare driver, if their negligent behavior caused the crash.
- Another negligent party, such as a reckless driver or a city agency responsible for unsafe road conditions.
- Your own personal insurance policy, if you have uninsured motorist coverage.
For example, we handled a case where a passenger suffered a catastrophic injury after a rideshare driver fell asleep at the wheel. Since Lyft denied liability, we filed a lawsuit directly against the driver and secured a six-figure accident settlement that covered our client’s medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional distress.
How Much Is My Rideshare Accident Claim Worth?
If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, you’re probably wondering how much compensation you can expect. The truth is, there’s no fixed amount every case is different. The value of your claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and how the accident impacts your daily life.
What Factors Determine the Value of Your Settlement?
- Medical expenses – This includes hospital visits, surgery, physical therapy, and any future medical care you may need. If you suffered a spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, or severe concussions, your medical treatment costs could be significant.
- Lost wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and future earning potential.
- Pain and suffering – Compensation isn’t just about paying bills it’s about the impact on your quality of life. If you’re dealing with chronic pain, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment in daily activities, these damages should be factored into your claim.
- Wrongful death claims – If a loved one was killed in a rideshare accident, their family may be eligible for compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.
A recent client of ours was a passenger in an Uber vehicle when another driver ran a red light, causing a major collision. She suffered multiple fractures and required surgery. Initially, Uber’s insurance offered a low settlement that wouldn’t even cover her medical expenses. Our team pushed back, proving the long-term impact of her injuries and securing a six-figure settlement that covered her medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you want to know how much your case is worth, the best step is to talk to an experienced rideshare accident lawyer who can evaluate your claim.
What Compensation Can You Receive for a Rideshare Accident?
After a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for more than just medical bills. Insurance companies often lowball settlements, so it’s important to understand what damages you can claim.
Medical Expenses & Ongoing Treatment Costs
Even a minor accident can lead to expensive medical treatment, including X-rays, surgeries, medication, and physical therapy. If you suffered a catastrophic injury, such as a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage, you may need long-term medical care, which should be covered in your settlement.
Lost Income & Future Earning Potential
If your injuries keep you from working, you can claim compensation for lost wages. In serious cases, you may not be able to return to the same job or work at all, in which case you can seek damages for future lost income.
Pain, Suffering & Emotional Trauma Compensation
The impact of an accident isn’t just physical it can also be mentally and emotionally exhausting. If your injuries limit your ability to enjoy life, cause emotional distress, or lead to ongoing pain, you can receive compensation for pain and suffering.
Wrongful Death Claims for Families
If someone loses their life in a rideshare accident, their family can file a wrongful death claim for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional grief.
Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible they may try to downplay your injuries or offer quick settlements that don’t reflect the true impact of the accident. An Uber accident lawyer can make sure you get the fair compensation you deserve.
How Long Do You Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim in California?
If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, time is not on your side. California has a strict statute of limitations, meaning you only have a limited window to file a claim.
Deadline for Filing a Rideshare Accident Claim in California
For most personal injury cases, including Uber and Lyft accidents, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
There are exceptions if the accident involved a government vehicle or dangerous road conditions, the timeline may be shorter. It’s important to speak with a rideshare accident lawyer near you as soon as possible to ensure your case is handled properly.
How Long Does a Rideshare Accident Case Take to Settle?
Some rideshare accident claims settle within a few months, while others can take a year or more, depending on:
- How complex the accident was
- How severe your injuries are
- Whether the insurance company fights your claim
- If a lawsuit needs to be filed
Insurance companies often delay cases to make victims desperate enough to accept a low settlement. A Lyft accident lawyer can keep the pressure on them and push for a fair resolution.
How a Lawyer Can Maximize Your Rideshare Accident Compensation
You’d think Uber or Lyft’s insurance would cover everything after an accident, but that’s not always how it works. Insurance companies are quick to downplay injuries, delay claims, and offer low settlements, hoping you’ll take whatever they give you. They might even try to blame you for part of the accident just to reduce their payout. Without someone on your side, it’s easy to get less than you actually deserve.
A rideshare accident lawyer knows how to push back. They gather medical records, accident reports, and witness statements to prove the true impact of your injuries. They deal with insurance adjusters, so you don’t have to, and they negotiate aggressively to get you the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If needed, they bring in experts who can reconstruct the accident and show exactly what happened.
We helped a client who was rear-ended while riding in an Uber. The insurance company tried to brush off their back injuries, saying they weren’t serious. But we presented solid medical documentation and expert testimony proving the long-term effects. The result? A settlement that fully covered their medical expenses, lost income, and recovery costs far more than the original offer. No upfront costs, no risk. You only pay if we win.
Contact a Sherman Oaks Rideshare Accident Attorney Today
Getting into a rideshare accident is frustrating. One minute, you're on your way somewhere, and the next, you're dealing with medical bills, missed work, and a confusing back-and-forth with insurance companies. It’s not fair, and you shouldn’t have to figure it all out alone.
At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we help people in Sherman Oaks who’ve been hurt in Uber and Lyft accidents. Whether you were a passenger, a driver, or someone else on the road, we’ll make sure you’re not stuck paying for someone else’s mistake.
Insurance companies love to drag things out and offer low settlements, hoping you’ll just take what they give you. That’s not how we do things. We take the pressure off you, handle the paperwork, and fight to get you the compensation you actually deserve not just what the insurance company thinks is enough.
The sooner you reach out, the better we can protect your case. Even if you’re unsure about what to do next, let’s talk. There’s no cost, no obligation just real answers from a real attorney.
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