Uber and Lyft Accidents in Los Angeles: Understanding Liability

Getting into any car accident is stressful but when the crash involves a rideshare vehicle like Uber or Lyft, the legal aftermath can become even more complicated. At Hillstone Law, our Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the claims process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

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Rideshare Accidents Are on the Rise in Los Angeles

Despite efforts like “Vision Zero” aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities, fatal car crashes in Los Angeles have increased by 32% since 2015, according to the Los Angeles Times. The spike is largely attributed to unsafe driving behaviors such as:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Impaired driving (alcohol, drugs, or prescription meds)
• Running red lights
• Failing to yield
• Tailgating
• Unfamiliarity with LA streets

Unfortunately, Uber and Lyft drivers are not immune to these risks in fact, the nature of rideshare work can encourage unsafe behavior. Because drivers are paid per ride, some may speed, drive while fatigued, or check their phones frequently to accept new passengers actions that increase the likelihood of an accident.

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Distracted Driving & Rideshare Apps

Rideshare drivers are constantly interacting with their apps: accepting rides, navigating directions, and monitoring pickups. This frequent mobile phone use can violate California Vehicle Code § 23123.5, which prohibits the use of handheld devices while driving. Even briefly glancing at a phone can divert a driver’s attention and result in a crash.

If an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident due to distracted or negligent behavior, they and potentially the rideshare company can be held financially liable.

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Who Pays After an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Liability and insurance coverage after a rideshare accident depend on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:

1. App Off

If the driver was not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, only their personal insurance applies.

2. App On, Waiting for a Ride

Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury
• $100,000 total per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

3. En Route or With a Passenger

Once a ride is accepted or underway, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage.

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Why Insurance Companies Try to Deny or Reduce Your Claim

Insurance carriers whether the driver’s personal insurer or Uber/Lyft’s policy may argue that:

• Another driver was partially at fault
• You contributed to your own injuries
• Your damages don’t exceed the personal policy limits

At Hillstone Law, we know how to push back against these tactics. Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver injured in a crash involving a rideshare vehicle, you have the legal right to pursue compensation.

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What Compensation Can You Recover After an Uber or Lyft Accident?

California law allows injury victims to recover full compensation for both economic and non-economic losses, including:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

We don’t let insurance companies undervalue your claim. From documenting your injuries to presenting compelling evidence, we fight to ensure your recovery reflects the true impact of your accident.

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Speak With a Los Angeles Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

You don’t have to navigate the complexities of an Uber or Lyft accident case alone. The team at Hillstone Law is ready to help you secure the compensation you’re entitled to while you focus on healing.