Los Angeles Uber and Lyft Ridesharing Accident Lawyer

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have changed how people commute. However, as their popularity increases, so do the risks of motor vehicle accidents involving these rideshare companies. For victims, the aftermath can be overwhelming, involving injuries, medical bills, and legal complexities.

Unfortunately, injured victims often avoid filing a case, believing these ride-hailing giants have big, undefeatable legal teams backing them.

The Los Angeles accident lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers are committed to helping Uber and Lyft accident victims achieve fair recovery. With over 50 years of experience in personal injury law, we’ve delivered significant results for clients across Los Angeles. Our longstanding service and local expertise make us a trusted choice for rideshare accident cases.

• Since 1972, we’ve recovered over $2 billion for our clients. Check out our client testimonials to see their stories. Client testimonials reflect individual experiences. Results vary depending on the facts of each case.
• With 14 locations across California, our team has a deep understanding of state law. View our case results and dedication to fair compensation. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
• We work on a contingency-fee basis. This means there are no upfront attorney’s fees. Legal fees are only paid if compensation is recovered. The fee structure is explained clearly during your case evaluation.

Experienced Lawyers for Rideshare Accident Cases

At Jacoby & Meyers, we are dedicated to representing victims of rideshare accidents throughout California. With 14 locations and decades of experience handling complex personal injury claims, we have the resources and expertise to handle every detail of your case. From conducting thorough investigations to negotiating settlements or going to trial, we’re here to fight for your rights every step of the way.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, we’re here to help. Contact us and fill out our form to speak with our team today.

Can I Afford a Rideshare Accident Lawyer?

A rideshare accident can turn your life upside down quickly. Medical appointments, missed work, damaged property, and the stress of dealing with insurance adjusters, all while you’re trying to recover. It’s a lot to manage, and the financial pressure alone can make pursuing a legal claim feel out of reach.

It isn’t. Here’s how working with Jacoby & Meyers actually works:

• Free consultation: We review your case at no cost, with no obligation.
• Contingency fee basis: Attorney fees are only owed if we obtain a settlement or verdict on your behalf. If there is no recovery, no attorney fees are owed.
• Note: While attorney fees are contingent, clients may be responsible for certain court costs and litigation expenses under our standard retainer agreement.
• Available 24/7: By phone, online form, or live chat.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

• Seek safety. If you can, relocate to a secure area.
• Get medical attention. Examine for injuries, and call 911 or the nearest Los Angeles hospital for emergency medical attention.
• Report to the police. Notify the Los Angeles police department and inform the police about the accident. Your insurance claim will likely require a police report.
• Gather evidence. Record the accident site, any visible injuries, and the damage to the car with pictures and videos.
• Record information if you are able. Obtain each driver’s license number, insurance information, and contact information. Get the witness’s contact information.
• Lawyer up. Hire an Uber or Lyft accident lawyer who will dedicate their time, knowledge, and effort to protecting your rights.

Legal Tip from Our Attorneys

One of the most consequential early factors in a rideshare accident claim is determining the driver’s app status at the time of the crash. Under California Public Utilities Code §5432, the applicable insurance coverage and which policy responds depend entirely on whether the driver was offline, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger. This directly affects coverage limits and which parties can be named in a claim. Insurance companies are well-versed in these distinctions. Claimants who don’t understand them may accept settlements that don’t reflect the full coverage available. Early legal involvement helps ensure the correct coverage tiers are identified and pursued.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Los Angeles

A 2021 study revealed that a 100-trip increase in rideshare activity within an area and hour raises the likelihood of injury crashes by 4–5%. From 2017 to 2018, there were 83,753 injury crashes involving rideshare trips:

• 54,530 involved drivers 
• 20,629 involved pedestrians 
• 8,968 involved cyclists 
• 421 fatalities 

Los Angeles poses unique challenges for rideshare drivers, with congested traffic on highways like the I-405, busy pedestrian zones near tourist hotspots, and frequent pickups in areas with limited visibility. Several factors contribute to the high rate of crashes involving rideshare vehicles:

• Distracted driving: Navigating apps, accepting rides, or using GPS while driving diverts attention from the road. 
• Driver fatigue: Long working hours to maximize earnings often impair reaction times and decision-making. 
• Speeding: The pressure to complete more trips pushes drivers to travel faster than is safe, especially on high-speed corridors like the I-10 or US-101. 
• Unfamiliar routes: Sudden stops, hesitation, and lane changes in unfamiliar areas lead to rear-end and side-impact collisions. 
• Reckless or aggressive driving: Abrupt lane changes, sharp turns, and running red lights in high-traffic zones near LAX or downtown are common patterns. 

What Are the Common Rideshare Accident Injuries?

Ridesharing incidents can cause injuries ranging from minor to severe. After an accident, you must always get medical help to assess and treat injuries and document them for future personal injury claims.

Here are the common rideshare accident injuries you may experience after a crash:

• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Head injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal injuries
• Laceration and bruises

Who May Be Liable for an Uber and Lyft Accident?

Depending on the circumstances of your car accident, several parties can be held responsible for the damages.

SCENARIO 1: AN ACCIDENT WITH AN OFF-DUTY RIDESHARE DRIVER

Liability: Driver’s Insurance.

Before hiring a driver, rideshare companies require them to have personal auto insurance. This usually covers accidents that happen outside of working hours. So, if a Lyft or Uber driver strikes you while off-duty, you can seek damages payout through their auto insurance.

SCENARIO 2: AN ON-DUTY DRIVER HITS YOU

Liability: Uber or Lyft’s insurance.

You may file a claim against the rideshare company if the driver was on duty. Lyft and Uber must carry $1,000,000 in insurance for accidents involving their drivers. This coverage applies if:

• The driver’s app is on, and they are waiting for a ride request.
• The driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger.
• The driver is transporting a passenger to their destination.

In severe cases, such as wrongful death, you may pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the company.

SCENARIO 3: ANOTHER DRIVER CAUSES THE COLLISION

Liability: Other Driver’s Insurance.

If another driver’s negligence causes an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, you can file an insurance claim against that driver. You may also verify whether the rideshare driver’s actions contributed to the crash.

SCENARIO 4: OTHER PARTIES ARE LIABLE

Liability: Another Entity.

Depending on the circumstances, liability may extend to several individuals or entities beyond the drivers involved:

• A vehicle manufacturer: A defective component, such as failing brakes, a tire blowout, or a malfunctioning airbag, can be the primary cause of an accident. In these cases, the manufacturer can be held responsible for the damages.
• A government entity: Public agencies are responsible for maintaining safe roads. Poorly maintained roads, missing or obscured signage, or defective traffic signals can create liability for the city or county. However, these cases have strict notice requirements and short deadlines, making it crucial to act quickly.
• Maintenance or Repair Shops: If a mechanic performed faulty repairs on any of the vehicles involved, and that negligence led to the accident, the repair shop could be held liable.
• Other Third Parties: In some situations, a pedestrian, cyclist, or even another company (like a construction company leaving debris on the road) could contribute to the accident and share liability.

Remember that you may file multiple rideshare accident claims if multiple entities are responsible. This can help you pursue your damages payout and hold all parties accountable for their actions.

While you legally have the right to claim compensation for all parties, doing so entails more complicated legal matters. For instance, you must have sufficient evidence for TWO cases to justify your claims. How can you gather proof if you need to recover from your injuries?

This is where our experienced Uber accident attorneys come in. With legal experts dedicated to each case, you can focus on your recovery with the assurance that both cases are handled by full teams to pursue an accident payout for you.

Why This Case Type Is Legally Complex

• Layered insurance coverage: Uber and Lyft maintain different coverage tiers depending on the driver’s app status at the time of impact, creating disputes over which policy applies and at what limit.
• Multiple potentially liable parties: A single accident can involve the driver, the rideshare company, another motorist, and in some cases a government entity, each with separate legal teams and insurers.
• Disputed app status: Rideshare companies may contest whether a driver was “on duty” at the time of the crash, which directly affects available coverage.
• Evidence that can disappear quickly: App data, GPS records, and in-vehicle footage may be overwritten or deleted without early preservation efforts.
• California’s comparative fault rules: Fault may be distributed across multiple parties, and how that allocation is argued affects the damages each claimant can recover.
• Medical causation issues: Delayed-onset injuries can be challenged by insurers who argue symptoms are unrelated to the accident, requiring expert medical documentation.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

Generally, your accident compensation value depends on the amount of loss you sustained in a car accident and how it affects your overall life.

For example, if a car accident results in a victim’s permanent leg amputation, they can seek compensation for medical expenses (past, present, and future), lost wages, and potential loss of income if they are unable to work due to their injuries.

Additionally, because the victim can no longer participate in activities they once enjoyed, they may experience emotional distress and loss of life enjoyment. These emotional losses can also be included in their settlement, ensuring they are compensated for both physical and emotional damages.

Overall, you can receive compensation for the following damages IF applicable to your situation:

Our Personal Injury Case Results

Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Some of our personal injury case results include:

Economic Damages

Losses that you can prove by providing receipts and other documentation. This can be:

• Past, present, and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Future loss of income
• Vehicle or property repair costs
• Burial and funeral expenses in case of a wrongful death
• Other measurable financial losses

Non-Economic Damages

The emotional or psychological impact of the crash on a victim’s life.

• Emotional distress
• Loss of companionship
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Loss of life enjoyment
• Other emotional or psychological impacts stemming from the accident

The value of your claim depends on the specific facts, the severity of your injuries, and how those injuries affect your daily life and long-term capacity. No reputable rideshare accident attorney can promise a specific outcome, but a thorough case evaluation ensures nothing is overlooked.

California Statute of Limitations

In Los Angeles, injured victims have a specific time frame when filing a personal injury claim. According to California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, you may pursue a case within two years from the date of the accident. However, this may change depending on the circumstances of the case. For instance, if the victim is a minor, the claim starts when they reach the legal age.

With the strict deadline for personal injury cases, you must already know the specific steps you should take when filing one to avoid wasting time and effort. When working with a Lyft or Uber accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery and have peace of mind knowing that all legal deadlines and requirements are met.

Why You Need a Lawyer for a Rideshare Accident Case

Insurance companies, whether representing Uber, Lyft, or an individual driver, have experienced claims teams whose job is to resolve cases as efficiently and inexpensively as possible. That’s not the same as fair.

Common challenges injured claimants face without legal representation include:

• Early settlement offers that don’t account for future medical costs or long-term income loss
• Disputed liability where multiple parties deflect responsibility onto one another
• Undervalued non-economic damages, such as emotional distress and loss of quality of life
• Procedural complexity in cases involving government entities or multiple defendants
• Recorded statements used against claimants during negotiations or litigation

Having an attorney handle these communications and legal filings allows you to focus on your medical recovery, not the claims process.

Benefits of Having a Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Increased Accountability vs. Rideshare Companies

Using ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft is supposed to be a convenient and safe way to get around. But what happens when you’re injured in a ride-hailing accident due to someone else’s negligence?

Unfortunately, some companies may complicate the claims process by restricting access to safety records, making it difficult for individuals to pursue the financial recovery they are seeking. Our firm is committed to uncovering these facts and advocating for a resolution that reflects the impact of your injuries.

Experienced Legal Team Dedicated to Your Recovery

Many riders have reported seeing drivers distracted by their phones, almost causing accidents. And despite the alarming number of injuries and fatalities, victims often don’t seek legal help, thinking that Uber and Lyft will automatically offer fair settlements from their insurance providers.

But the reality is that these settlements often fall short, leaving victims with significant out-of-pocket expenses and ongoing financial burdens.

At our law firm, we’ve seen firsthand how rideshare companies can downplay the severity of accidents and minimize victims’ financial losses.

That is why having a skilled attorney on your side is vital to advocate for your rights and pursue a recovery that reflects the impact of your injuries. Our team manages every aspect of your case, from negotiating with insurers to representing your interests in court. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to litigate your case to seek a resolution.

How Jacoby & Meyers Builds Your Case

Step 1 – Initial case evaluation
We review the details of your accident, assess available evidence, and explain your legal options clearly.

Step 2 – Early investigation and evidence preservation
Our team works quickly to preserve critical records, including app data, GPS logs, police reports, surveillance footage, and medical documentation, before they are lost or altered.

Step 3 – Coordination with medical providers and experts
Where appropriate, we work alongside treating physicians and independent experts to document the full scope of your injuries, including future care needs and long-term impact.

Step 4 – Damage documentation
We account for past, current, and anticipated future damages to build a complete picture of what you’ve lost.

Step 5 – Strategic demand preparation
We prepare a demand package supported by evidence, not assumptions, and present it to the responsible insurers in a manner that reflects the documented value of your claim.

Step 6 – Litigation and trial preparation when necessary
If a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation, we are prepared to file suit and take your case to trial. We do not treat settlement as the only path forward.

How to Choose the Right Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Rideshare accident cases involving Uber or Lyft are often more complicated than typical car crashes. Multiple insurance policies may apply, coverage can change depending on the driver’s app status, and corporate insurers move quickly to protect their interests. Choosing the right attorney early can significantly affect how your claim is handled.

The right Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyer will begin with a thorough investigation and a clear legal strategy from day one.

Experience With Rideshare Injury Claims

Rideshare cases involve unique legal and insurance issues. Your attorney should understand how to handle:

• Serious and catastrophic injuries
• Uber and Lyft insurance coverage tiers
• App activity logs and digital trip records
• Driver background and safety policies
• Situations involving multiple liable parties

Jacoby & Meyers has represented injured Californians for decades and recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements in serious injury cases.

Reputation and Professional Standing

In high-value claims against large companies, credibility matters. Established firms with recognized attorneys are often taken more seriously during negotiations. Jacoby & Meyers attorneys have been recognized by organizations such as Super Lawyers and TopVerdict.

Understanding of California Law and Filing Deadlines

A qualified Los Angeles rideshare accident attorney should be familiar with:

• Local court rules and procedures
• How liability is determined in app-based driving cases
• Insurance defense tactics used by corporate carriers
• Strict deadlines, especially if a government vehicle is involved

Trial Readiness

Rideshare accident claims can involve significant damages. A firm prepared to litigate and present evidence before a jury strengthens your position if fair settlement negotiations fail.

Selecting the right rideshare accident lawyer can help protect your recovery, financial security, and future stability.

What You Need to Prove in a Rideshare Accident Injury Claim

Rideshare crashes involving Uber or Lyft can be legally complex. Insurance companies may dispute whether the driver was logged into the app, which policy applies, or how serious your injuries are. Building a strong claim requires clear and timely evidence.

Key evidence may include:

• Police or collision reports identifying the rideshare vehicle
• App records showing the driver’s status at the time of the crash
• Photos of vehicle damage and the accident scene
• Witness statements describing how the crash occurred
• Medical records connecting your injuries to the collision
• Proof of missed work and lost income
• Bills and receipts for medical treatment and other related costs

Rideshare accident claims often hinge on proving liability and determining which insurance coverage applies. An experienced attorney can secure digital trip data, preserve time-sensitive evidence, and clearly link your injuries to the crash so your claim reflects the full impact on your life.

Client Testimonials

For over 50 years, our firm has upheld integrity and reliable support, ensuring every client receives the justice they deserve.

“I’ve never had a lawyer, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from this process. And although it’s still continuing, I have to say that Nathalie Figueroa is the absolute BEST! She’s very professional. I never had to worry about what was going on with the case because she made sure to inform me of everything at every step of the process. I’m thankful and grateful for all she’s done for us! You rock, Nathalie!” – Robin Moore from Google Review

Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.

Case Outcomes That Make a Difference

Behind each case is a person dealing with life-changing challenges. These settlements provide access to vital medical care, replace lost income, and restore financial stability after devastating events.

• $19 Million – Ride Share Passenger VS. Auto / Quadriplegic
• $2.25 Million – Auto VS. Auto
• $6 Million – Auto VS. Pedestrian
• $2.5 Million – Auto VS. Auto

Read our case studies to learn how we protect our clients’ rights.

What Our Clients Have To Say

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is evaluated based on its unique facts and evidence.

Rideshare Accident Attorney Near Me

Jacoby & Meyers serves injured clients from 14 office locations throughout Los Angeles and across California. Whether your accident occurred on the I-405 in West Los Angeles, the streets of Downtown LA, or anywhere else in Southern California, our team is ready to help you.

Offices and Service Areas Include:

• Los Angeles
• Orange County
• San Diego
• San Jose
• San Francisco
• Oakland
• Sacramento
• San Bernardino
• Ontario
• Bakersfield
• Fresno
• Escondido
• Brea

See the areas we serve here. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What if a government agency or public transit vehicle were involved in my accident?

Claims against government entities in California follow different rules. Under the California Government Claims Act, you typically have six months from the date of the incident to file a government tort claim before you can pursue a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can bar your claim entirely. If a Metro bus, city-owned vehicle, or government-maintained roadway contributed to your accident, contact an attorney as soon as possible.

How does comparative fault work in California rideshare cases?

California follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning you can pursue a claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your recoverable damages may be reduced in proportion to your assigned percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 15% responsible, your total recovery may be reduced by 15%. How fault is allocated and argued can significantly affect the outcome of your case.

What if the rideshare driver was not logged into the app at the time of the crash?

If the driver was offline when the accident occurred, the rideshare company’s insurance typically does not apply. In that scenario, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy is generally the applicable coverage. Determining the app status and verifying it are among the first steps in evaluating your claim.

What if multiple people were injured in the same rideshare accident?

When multiple claimants are involved in a single accident, available insurance coverage limits may need to be distributed among them. This can affect each individual’s recovery depending on the severity of injuries and the policies involved. An attorney can help you understand how coverage applies to your specific situation in a multi-claimant scenario.

What if the other driver didn’t have insurance?

Uber and Lyft both carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage of up to $1 million during active trips (Periods 2 and 3). If the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured, this coverage may be available to you. The specific conditions under which UM/UIM coverage applies depend on the facts of your case.

Does it cost anything to hire Jacoby & Meyers?

The initial consultation is free. Attorney fees are contingent, meaning they are only owed if we obtain a recovery on your behalf. If no recovery is obtained, no attorney fees are owed. Note that court costs and other litigation expenses are handled separately under our standard retainer agreement, which we explain clearly at the outset.

For more information, you can visit our FAQ page. 

Local Resources in Los Angeles

Disclaimer: We do not endorse or profit from these organizations. This list is for informational purposes only.

Emergency Rooms

• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: 8700 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048
• Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center: 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095
• Keck Hospital of USC: 1500 San Pablo St, Los Angeles, CA 90033

Urgent Care

• Dignity Health – St. Mary Medical Center: 1050 Linden Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813
• Exer Urgent Care: Multiple locations throughout Los Angeles County
• Total Access Urgent Care: Multiple locations throughout Los Angeles

Police Departments

• Los Angeles Police Department (Traffic Group): 100 W. 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department: 211 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Courthouses

• Los Angeles Superior Court: 111 N. Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Stanley Mosk Courthouse: 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Speak With a Los Angeles Rideshare Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Los Angeles, you have the right to understand your legal options. Jacoby & Meyers offers free initial consultations, and our attorneys are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We are available by phone, via an online form, or via live chat.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Cases We Take On

• Car Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Dog Bites
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Premises Liability
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Construction Accidents
• Boat Accident
• Bicycle Accidents
• Paraplegia Injury
• Brain Injuries
• Catastrophic Injuries
• Burn Injuries
• Wrongful Death
• Laceration Injury
• Orthopedic Injury
• Whiplash Injury
• Amputations
• Broken Bone Injuries
• Neck Injuries
• Quadriplegia Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury