Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular and convenient way to travel in California. But with their growing use, the number of accidents involving rideshare vehicles has also increased significantly. In fact, research shows that ridesharing services contribute to hundreds of additional traffic fatalities in the U.S. each year.
If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, it’s important to understand your rights and how you may be able to recover compensation. At Hillstone Law, we help victims of rideshare accidents navigate the complex legal process and fight for the justice they deserve.
Why Rideshare Accidents Happen
One factor contributing to these accidents is a practice known as “deadheading.” This occurs when rideshare drivers spend time driving around without passengers, often circling the same areas while waiting for ride requests. Studies show drivers may spend as much as 60% of their time on the road in this state, leading to more traffic congestion and a higher risk of crashes.
While rideshare services were originally promoted as a way to reduce drunk driving accidents, studies from major universities have found the connection to be less clear than expected.
In addition, safety concerns have been raised for passengers. Surveys reveal that many riders especially women have reported feeling unsafe, and in some cases, incidents have been serious enough to require police involvement.
Common Injuries in Uber and Lyft Accidents
Rideshare accidents can result in devastating injuries, including:
- Severe whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken or fractured bones
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Long-term pain or disability
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s critical to seek medical care. Some injuries do not appear until hours or days later.
What To Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you are involved in a rideshare accident, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911 if anyone is injured. Your safety comes first.
- Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, license plates, and accident location.
- Gather contact information for the driver and any witnesses.
- Take a screenshot of your rideshare app showing details of the trip.
- Report the accident through the rideshare app immediately.
- Seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t feel injured.
- Contact a personal injury attorney to protect your rights before speaking to insurance companies.
Who Pays for Uber and Lyft Accidents?
Determining liability after a rideshare accident can be complex. Both Uber and Lyft carry up to $1 million in liability insurance coverage, but when and how that coverage applies depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
- App Off: Only the driver’s personal insurance applies.
- App On, No Passenger Yet: Limited coverage may apply.
- App On, Passenger in Vehicle: The $1 million liability policy is typically in effect.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny valid claims, making experienced legal representation essential.
The Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Victims of rideshare accidents may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical bills, hospital stays, and future treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (for surviving families)
In some cases, punitive damages may also be available if the driver’s conduct was especially reckless or dangerous.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
At Hillstone Law, we understand the complexities of Uber and Lyft accident claims. Our attorneys will:
- Investigate the accident and determine liability
- Handle all negotiations with insurance companies
- Collect evidence such as police reports, medical records, and app data
- Work with experts to calculate the full value of your claim
- Fight aggressively to ensure you receive maximum compensation
You deserve more than what insurance companies are willing to offer. We are here to protect your rights and advocate for your recovery.
Contact Hillstone Law Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in California, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Hillstone Law today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Note: These blog posts are created solely for the use of Hillstone Law. The information is gathered from internet research, publicly available sources, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT. While we aim to share helpful and educational content, Hillstone Law does not independently verify every detail. Some information may be incomplete, outdated, or subject to change without notice. If you believe any part of a post is inaccurate, misleading, or infringes upon copyright, please contact Hillstone Law immediately so we can review it and take appropriate action, including correction or removal.
Disclaimer: The material provided in these blogs is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Reading these posts does not create, and is not intended to create, an attorney-client relationship with Hillstone Law. Our intent is to share knowledge, raise awareness, and provide helpful resources to the public; however, Hillstone Law makes no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided, and expressly disclaims liability for any actions taken in reliance on it. The photos used in these posts are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict actual clients, individuals, or incidents unless expressly stated. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please contact Hillstone Law at (855) 691-1691. Our attorneys are available to answer your legal questions and help you understand your rights.
