Los Angeles Uber and Lyft Ridesharing Accident Lawyer

Who do I file a claim against in an Uber and Lyft accident? Under California Civil Code § 1714, a claim may be filed against the Uber or Lyft driver, the company, another motorist, or multiple parties involved in the collision if their negligence contributed to the accident. The available insurance coverage may also depend on whether the rideshare driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, on the way to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger at the time of the crash. An experienced car accident attorney can determine which parties may be liable and identify the insurance coverage available under the circumstances.

Uber and Lyft accidents can involve more complicated insurance and liability issues than a typical car accident. Whether the collision occurred near LAX, on I-405, I-5, or US-101, determining who is responsible and which insurance policy applies is often an important part of the claims process.

The Los Angeles car accident lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers are committed to helping Uber and Lyft accident victims achieve fair recovery. With over 50 years of service in personal injury law, our firm has represented injured clients throughout Los Angeles and across California. Our longstanding service and local expertise make us a trusted choice for rideshare accident cases.

• More than $2 billion recovered in verdicts and settlements
• 50+ years of service to the Los Angeles and California communities, reflected in client testimonials
• Our personal injury lawyers have been recognized and awarded by respected legal organizations for their remarkable work
• Contingency fee-based representation — No upfront fees to start a case and completely free initial case evaluation

Past results depend on the facts and circumstances of each case. They do not guarantee, warrant, or predict the outcome of your legal matter.

Contact Jacoby & Meyers through our 24/7 hotline or complete our online form and speak with our Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident lawyer.

What Our Clients Have To Say

What should you do after a rideshare accident?

After a rideshare accident, prioritize your safety, seek medical attention, report the collision, and preserve evidence related to both the crash and the Uber or Lyft trip. Whether you were a passenger, rideshare driver, occupant of another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist, documenting the accident early can help establish what happened and which insurance policies may apply to the claim.

In Los Angeles, this may involve assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department or the California Highway Patrol, particularly after collisions near busy areas such as LAX, US-101, or Interstate 5.

• Seek safety and call 911. If possible, move to a safe location while waiting for emergency responders.
• Get medical attention. Seek evaluation from emergency responders or visit a nearby medical facility, such as the Los Angeles Medical Center, even if your injuries appear minor.
• Report the accident to the police. A police report may become an important part of the insurance and claims process.
• Gather evidence. Take photographs or videos of the vehicles, accident scene, visible injuries, and road conditions.
• Obtain information from everyone involved. Collect driver information, insurance details, contact information, and witness contact information when possible.

After an accident, it can be hard to conclude whether the damages and your injuries are minor or serious. Having important evidence can help your claim when things become much clearer.

What actually happens after an Uber & Lyft accident in Los Angeles?

The reality for many Uber and Lyft accident victims in Los Angeles is that recovery and the claims process often begin at the same time. While dealing with medical treatment, vehicle repairs, and time away from work, those involved in the accident may also need to obtain police reports, communicate with insurance representatives, and determine what insurance coverage may apply to the claim. This can be especially challenging after collisions on heavily traveled routes such as US-101, I-405, and I-5.

Los Angeles realities that can affect the claims process include:

• Traffic collision reports may take days to process. Obtaining a finalized report from the Los Angeles Police Department or the California Highway Patrol can take days or weeks, especially for multi-vehicle pileups in high-density zones like West Hollywood.
• Insurance companies strike quickly. Within days of the crash, while you are getting evaluated at facilities like Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, insurance adjusters are already looking for ways to deny liability or challenge your claim.
• Medical care is a prolonged process. Victims often require months of physical therapy, orthopedic consultations, and advanced imaging to fully address their injuries.
• Rideshare coverage questions may arise. Determining whether the driver was waiting for a ride request, on the way to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger can affect how the claim is handled and what insurance coverage may be available.

The combination of medical recovery, insurance investigations, and rideshare coverage issues can make the Uber and Lyft claims process more complicated than a typical motor vehicle accident.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accident Cases

Common injuries in Uber and Lyft accident cases include whiplash, broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal injuries, and cuts or bruises. Whether you were a rideshare passenger, driver, pedestrian, cyclist, or occupant of another vehicle, you must always get medical help to assess and treat injuries and document them for future personal injury claims.

• Whiplash: A neck injury caused by the sudden back-and-forth movement of the head during a collision.
• Broken bones: Fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, wrists, or other parts of the body that may require treatment and recovery time.
• Head injuries: Injuries ranging from concussions to more serious traumatic brain injuries that can affect memory, concentration, and daily activities.
• Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine that may result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, or, in severe cases, paralysis.
• Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs or internal bleeding that may not be immediately visible after the accident.
• Laceration and bruises: Cuts, scrapes, and soft tissue injuries caused by impact with the vehicle interior, airbags, or debris.

The congested traffic on Los Angeles highways like the I-405, combined with busy pedestrian zones near tourist hotspots and frequent pickups in areas with limited visibility, can contribute to collisions that result in serious injuries requiring medical treatment and recovery time.

Who may be liable for an Uber and Lyft accident in Los Angeles?

Fault in an Uber or Lyft accident may fall on the rideshare driver, another motorist, or other parties whose negligence contributed to the collision under California Civil Code § 1714. Determining who is at fault often requires a careful review of how the crash happened and whether the rideshare driver was actively using the Uber or Lyft app at the time of the accident. 

The Uber Driver 

When an accident is caused by an Uber or Lyft driver who is off duty and not logged into the app, they may be held responsible for the collision. In most cases, their personal auto insurance policy is usually what will cover the compensation for the damages caused.

The Rideshare Company 

Ridesharing companies are required to maintain insurance coverage for certain accidents involving drivers using their platforms. Depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident, coverage ranging from $50,000 to $1,000,000 may be available. This coverage may apply 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.

Another Driver 

If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, a claim may be filed against that driver and their insurance company. In some cases, more than one driver may share responsibility for the collision.

Other Parties 

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

• A vehicle manufacturer: Defective vehicle components, such as brakes, tires, or airbags, may contribute to a collision.
• A government entity: Unsafe road conditions, missing signs, or defective traffic signals may contribute to an accident.
• Maintenance or Repair Shops: Improper repairs or negligent maintenance may affect a vehicle’s safety.
• 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.

What are the damages you can recover after an Uber & Lyft accident?

Under California Civil Code §§ 3281–3294, Uber and Lyft accident victims may recover economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in limited circumstances, punitive damages through a personal injury claim. Economic damages cover measurable financial losses, while non-economic damages compensate for the personal impact of the accident. In cases involving serious misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded.

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

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded only in limited situations involving serious misconduct, extreme recklessness, or intentional harm. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, they are intended to punish wrongful conduct and discourage similar behavior in the future.

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. Every case is different and must be evaluated based on its own circumstances.

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:

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

What is the deadline for filing a rideshare accident 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.

Pitfall Alert: What if my Uber or Lyft trip information is lost?

Losing your Uber or Lyft trip information can make it more difficult to determine what insurance coverage applies and how the accident occurred. In these situations, other evidence such as phone records, app screenshots, GPS data, receipts, witness statements, and police reports may help reconstruct the trip and establish what happened. If key details are missing, a rideshare accident lawyer can also request records directly from Uber or Lyft and work to identify the coverage that may apply to your case. 

Remember, trip receipts, ride confirmations, driver information, and communications through the Uber or Lyft app can help establish important details about the accident. Whether the collision occurred during a trip to Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, or another part of the city, this information can play an important role in the outcome of your case. So, saving screenshots, trip receipts, and other ride information soon after the accident can help preserve details that may become important later in the claims process.

Why do you need an Uber & Lyft accident attorney in Los Angeles?

Uber and Lyft accident cases often involve multiple insurance policies, coverage questions, and liability disputes that can make the claims process more complicated than a typical car accident case. Attorneys can handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies while helping protect your rights throughout the claims process.

Opponent Playbook

One of the biggest challenges after an Uber or Lyft accident is figuring out which insurance coverage applies. Rideshare claims can be complex because coverage may depend on whether the driver was offline, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger at the time of the crash. 

Other common challenges injured claimants face without legal representation include:

• Insurance companies pressuring 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 multiple defendants
• Recorded statements that may later be used during negotiations or litigation

Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident lawyers understand the challenges that can arise in rideshare claims. They can help by:

• Building a claim supported by evidence and, when necessary, expert analysis
• Communicating and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
• Identifying available insurance coverage and potential sources of recovery
• Protecting the value of your claim throughout the claims process, even if it means taking it to court

By handling the legal and insurance aspects of the claim, an attorney can help injured victims focus more on recovery and less on the challenges of the claims process.

What does an Rideshare accident claim process look like?

A rideshare accident claim process usually involves gathering evidence, determining who may be responsible, reviewing applicable insurance coverage, negotiating with insurance companies, and, in some cases, litigation. The timeline can vary depending on the severity of the injuries, the available evidence, and whether liability or coverage is disputed.

1. Evidence Gathering and Preservation: Collecting important evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, rideshare trip information, and other records related to the accident.
2. Coverage Determination: Reviewing the facts of the accident, rideshare records, and available insurance policies to determine what coverage may apply to the claim.
3. Negotiations with Insurance Companies: Presenting evidence, discussing liability and damages, and attempting to resolve the claim through settlement.
4. Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed through litigation in the Los Angeles Superior Court, including courthouses such as the Stanley Mosk Courthouse.

What to look for in a Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyer?

Before choosing a rideshare accident lawyer, consider the firm’s experience with Uber and Lyft claims, reputation in personal injury law, understanding of California rideshare regulations, and ability to handle cases involving serious injuries and disputed liability. These qualities can help determine whether a law firm is prepared to handle the legal and practical challenges of your case.

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.

Client Testimonials

For over 50 years, our firm has upheld integrity and reliable support, doing our best to fight for the justice our clients 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

Read more about what former clients have to say about our firm on our client testimonials page.

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.

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

Areas We Serve

Our team of attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers serves the whole Los Angeles community, including:

• Downtown Los Angeles
• West Hollywood
• Pasadena
• Glendale
• Sherman Oaks
• Century City
• Encino
• Woodland Hills

Our services also extend throughout California through our statewide network of offices, including:

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

See the areas we serve here.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Claims against government entities in California are governed by 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. 

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
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• 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
• Back Injury
• Rideshare Accidents