Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident? Let’s Talk About What Comes Next.
You called a rideshare because it was supposed to be the easy, safe way to get around Studio City. Then bam an accident. Now you're hurt, stuck with medical bills, and getting the runaround from insurance companies. Who’s paying for all this? What are your rights?
You’re not alone. With more Ubers and Lyfts on the road, rideshare accidents in Studio City are more common than ever. A study from the University of Chicago found that rideshare services have contributed to a 2-3% increase in traffic fatalities each year. And while Uber and Lyft offer insurance, actually getting them to cover your costs is another story.
That’s where we come in. As Studio City personal injury lawyers, we help injured passengers, drivers, and even pedestrians get the compensation they deserve. If you’re dealing with medical expenses, lost income, or just don’t know where to start, let’s talk. You don’t have to figure this out alone.
Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Studio City
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made getting around Studio City easier. But when accidents happen, figuring out who’s responsible and how to get compensated can be anything but simple.
Uber and Lyft have their own insurance policies, but that doesn’t mean they’ll make the process easy for you. Claims get denied, liability gets disputed, and settlements get delayed. Meanwhile, you’re left dealing with medical bills, lost income, and the stress of it all.
Here’s something to think about: A University of Chicago study found that rideshare services have contributed to a 2-3% increase in traffic fatalities in major U.S. cities. With more rideshare vehicles on the road, accidents are becoming more common, and insurance companies are working harder to protect their bottom line.
That’s why having an experienced rideshare accident lawyer on your side matters. We know how to handle these cases, push back against insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Who Is Liable for a Rideshare Accident?
After a rideshare crash, one of the biggest questions is: Who’s responsible?
Sometimes, it’s the rideshare driver who caused the accident. Other times, another negligent driver may be at fault. But what about Uber or Lyft? Can they be held responsible?
Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, which means they try to avoid taking direct responsibility for accidents. However, if the driver was actively accepting or completing a ride request, the rideshare company’s insurance may kick in. The details of these policies matter and insurance companies won’t always explain them in a way that benefits you.
And then there’s the new wave of self-driving rideshare vehicles. Companies like Waymo and Cruise are rolling out autonomous ride-hailing services, but these cars aren’t perfect. In 2023, Cruise lost its driverless car permit in California after one of its cars dragged a pedestrian 20 feet following a collision. This raises new questions about liability: If a self-driving car causes a crash, who pays for the damage?
Every case is different, but one thing is certain getting the right legal guidance is key to making sure the responsible party is held accountable.
Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, the steps you take next can make all the difference in building a strong claim and getting compensated.
1. Get Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, see a doctor. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, don’t show up right away. Your medical records will also be important evidence for your claim.
2. Report the Accident
Call the police and make sure an official accident report is filed. Then, report the crash to Uber or Lyft through their rideshare app.
3. Gather Evidence
The more proof you have, the better. Take pictures of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses. Keep screenshots of the ride details from the app. These details can make or break your case.
4. Talk to a Lawyer Before Accepting Any Offers
Insurance adjusters may call you with a quick settlement offer. Don’t take it without speaking to an experienced rideshare accident lawyer. Once you accept, you can’t go back and ask for more even if your medical bills pile up later.
The best thing you can do? Get legal help early. That way, you’ll have someone looking out for you while you focus on recovery.
Understanding Uber & Lyft Insurance Coverage and Policy Limits
If you've been in a rideshare accident, the first question is usually: Who’s paying for this?
Uber and Lyft have insurance policies for their drivers, but getting a straight answer on coverage isn’t always easy. What you’re entitled to depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.
What Does Uber’s Insurance Cover in an Accident?
Uber’s coverage works in stages:
- If the app is off: No coverage from Uber only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
- If the app is on, but no ride is accepted (Period 1): Uber offers limited coverage $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. But they only pay if the driver’s personal insurance refuses.
- If a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the car (Periods 2 & 3): Uber provides $1 million in liability coverage and additional protection if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Lyft’s Insurance Policy Explained
Lyft follows almost the exact same rules as Uber.
- No coverage when the app is off.
- Limited coverage when the app is on but no ride is accepted.
- $1 million in coverage once a ride is in progress.
Sounds simple, but insurance companies love loopholes.
What to Do If Uber or Lyft’s Insurance Denies Your Claim
Uber and Lyft’s insurers will look for any reason to deny your claim. Common excuses include:
- “Your injuries existed before the accident.”
- “Our driver wasn’t at fault.”
- “This accident isn’t covered under our policy.”
If you get hit with a denial, don’t give up. There are ways to fight back. A rideshare accident attorney can challenge the insurance company, gather more evidence, and negotiate for a fair settlement.
The key is acting fast insurance companies are counting on you to give up.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Studio City
Rideshare drivers aren’t professionals. They’re regular people trying to make extra cash, which means they’re just as likely if not more likely to make mistakes behind the wheel.
Distracted Driving
Drivers rely on their phones for everything navigation, accepting rides, checking messages. All that screen time makes accidents more likely.
Speeding & Reckless Driving
Many drivers rush to complete more trips, especially during surge pricing. The faster they go, the more money they make. That’s a problem for everyone on the road.
Driver Fatigue
A study from MIT found that 54% of Uber and Lyft drivers work over 60 hours a week. That’s exhausting. Fatigue slows reaction time and leads to poor decision-making a dangerous mix on the road.
Heavy Traffic & Rush Hours
Studio City’s roads are packed, and rideshare drivers aren’t always patient. Cutting across lanes, running yellow lights, and sudden stops can all lead to crashes.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Unlike taxis, Uber and Lyft cars aren’t regularly inspected. A driver might skip an oil change or put off replacing bad brakes. That puts everyone at risk.
What Compensation Can You Receive in a Rideshare Accident Claim?
If you were hurt in a rideshare accident, you shouldn’t have to pay the price. A claim can help you recover:
Medical Expenses & Rehabilitation Costs
Doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy it all adds up. Your claim should cover both current and future medical bills.
Lost Wages & Future Earnings
If you can’t work because of your injuries, you deserve compensation for lost income. If your injury affects your ability to earn in the future, that should be factored in too.
Pain & Suffering
An accident doesn’t just hurt physically. Emotional trauma, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life are all things that can be considered in a claim.
Wrongful Death Claims
If a loved one was killed in a rideshare accident, their family has the right to seek justice. A wrongful death claim can help cover funeral costs, lost financial support, and the emotional toll of losing someone too soon.
Rideshare Passenger, Driver, or Pedestrian – Know Your Rights
Rideshare accidents affect more than just the driver behind the wheel. Whether you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, a rideshare driver yourself, or a pedestrian hit by a rideshare vehicle, your rights matter. Here’s what you need to know.
What If I Was a Passenger in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
If you were a rideshare passenger when the accident happened, you weren’t at fault—but you’re still the one dealing with the injuries. Whether the Uber/Lyft driver caused the crash or another driver hit the car, you’re entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Let’s say you’re riding in a Lyft when another car runs a red light and crashes into you. Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy should cover your injuries, but the process isn’t always smooth. The insurance companies may argue about liability, delay your claim, or offer a lowball settlement. That’s why having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side makes a difference.
What If I Was Driving for Uber or Lyft at the Time of the Accident?
Rideshare drivers are in a unique situation when it comes to accidents. You’re not an employee of Uber or Lyft, so getting coverage for your injuries isn’t always straightforward.
- If you were waiting for a ride request when the accident happened, Uber/Lyft only provide limited coverage ($50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 per accident).
- If you had accepted a ride or had a passenger in the car, Uber/Lyft’s $1 million policy should apply.
- If another driver caused the accident, you may be able to file a claim against their insurance for damages.
If you’re an Uber or Lyft driver injured in an accident, don’t assume the rideshare company will automatically cover your costs. A lawyer can help make sure you’re not left with medical bills and lost earnings that should be covered.
What If a Rideshare Car Hit Me While Walking or Driving?
Rideshare drivers are just as likely as anyone else to cause an accident. If you were walking, biking, or driving and got hit by an Uber or Lyft, you have the right to file a claim against the responsible party.
If the rideshare driver was at fault, their personal insurance or Uber/Lyft’s insurance should cover your injuries. But expect delays insurance companies may try to blame you or downplay your injuries. Having a legal team that understands personal injury law can help you get fair compensation without unnecessary delays.
How Long Do You Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim in California?
The clock starts ticking the moment your accident happens. In California, you generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit after a rideshare accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
When to Take Legal Action to Avoid Losing Your Claim
Waiting too long to start your claim can hurt your case. Insurance companies count on delays to weaken your claim. Witnesses forget details, accident reports get harder to track down, and the other party may argue that your injuries weren’t serious.
Even if you’re still recovering, getting legal representation early helps protect your rights and ensures you don’t miss out on financial recovery.
Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations
There are some situations where the two-year deadline may be extended:
- If the accident involved a minor (someone under 18), the two-year limit doesn’t start until they turn 18.
- If the injured person was medically incapacitated (e.g., in a coma or suffering from a brain injury), the time limit may be paused.
- If the accident involved a government vehicle (such as a city bus or police car), you may have as little as six months to file a claim.
Every case is different, but one thing is certain: waiting too long can cost you. If you’re unsure how much time you have to file, a rideshare accident attorney can review your case and make sure you don’t miss critical deadlines.
Why Choose Our Studio City Rideshare Accident Attorneys?
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a rideshare accident, the last thing you need is more uncertainty. You want answers. You want to know your medical bills will be covered. You want to make sure you’re not taken advantage of by insurance companies that are more interested in protecting their bottom line than paying what you’re owed.
That’s where we come in. Our team has extensive experience handling Uber and Lyft accident claims in Studio City. We know how to navigate the legal process, push back against insurance adjusters, and get accident victims the maximum compensation they deserve.
Proven Success in Rideshare Accident Cases
A strong track record matters. Our firm has helped clients recover six- and seven-figure settlements in personal injury claims involving rideshare collisions.
For example, we represented a Lyft passenger who suffered severe injuries after a reckless driver ran a red light. The insurance company initially tried to downplay the extent of the injuries, offering a settlement that wouldn’t even cover long-term medical care. After taking legal action, we secured a substantial payout that covered medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Every case is different, but our goal is always the same: to fight for fair compensation and ensure you’re not left struggling financially.
No Upfront Fees – We Don’t Win Unless You Do
Legal fees shouldn’t be something you worry about when you’re already dealing with an accident. We work on a contingency basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing. It’s that simple.
This allows you to focus on healing and moving forward while we handle the legal process.
Get a Free Consultation with a Studio City Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today
You don’t have to handle this alone. If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, talk to an attorney who knows how to get results. We’ll answer your questions, explain the legal process, and help you understand your rights.
Call us now or fill out the consultation form to get started. The sooner we begin working on your case, the better we can protect your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Let’s get you the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
