As rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft become increasingly popular in Los Angeles, so do accidents involving these vehicles. Whether you are a rideshare passenger, another driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian, getting into a rideshare accident can suddenly complicate things legally and with insurance claims. With numerous parties involved and complex insurance policies, determining who is at fault—and how to seek compensation—requires clarity and strong legal expertise.
This article will define the essentials surrounding liability in LA rideshare accidents and how an experienced Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyer can assist you in seeking the just compensation you deserve.
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In rideshare accidents, unlike other car accidents, a third party is involved: the rideshare company. Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees, which allows these companies to distance themselves from direct liability in many situations. However, both companies have insurance that covers their drivers on certain occasions. The amount of insurance and types available will depend on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.
If the driver was logged off of the app and not working, their insurance coverage is the only coverage that will be available. If the driver is logged in to their app but has not yet accepted a ride, Uber or Lyft may provide limited liability insurance coverage. If a rideshare passenger contacts the driver or is en route to pick up the passenger, the rideshare company’s $1 million liability insurance will typically apply.
Knowing the driver’s exact state of mind during the accident is crucial in determining which insurance policies will apply. A qualified Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyer can investigate the driver’s application usage and police report to get these facts and establish liability.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
In a rideshare accident, liability can be attributed to multiple parties. The most common is the rideshare driver when they are driving negligently—speeding, distracted, driving under the influence, etc. However, liability in rideshare accidents could also stem from the actions of the other driver in a case against them, or even a third party, such as a vehicle manufacturer (in the event of a mechanical failure) or a city department responsible for road maintenance.
On the other hand, rideshare companies themselves are generally insulated from liability because the drivers are considered independent contractors. However, certain situations apply. For example, if Uber or Lyft mishandled the process of screening a driver with a dangerous history or a technical failure in the app contributed to the crash, then they might also be held liable.
To determine who is legally liable, the investigation may involve obtaining and reviewing data from GPS devices, driver logs, traffic cameras, and witness testimonies. This is why retaining an experienced attorney is helpful. At law firms like Capital Law Firm, lawyers are experienced in handling the complex aspects of rideshare accident claims and determining who may be liable, so you can seek your full and fair resolution.
Getting Compensated for Your Injuries
Suppose you have been injured in a rideshare accident in LA. In that case, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, emotional distress, and costs for future treatment. However, filing a claim and getting compensation is not easy, and payment is complicated by having more than one insurance company that could play a role in covering your damages.
Insurance adjusters may offer you a trivial settlement or attempt to assign blame to you. Other injured parties mistakenly believe that Uber or Lyft will automatically cover all damages, which is not always the case. For the most part, your compensation is contingent upon your ability to prove liability and show the full extent of your injuries.
Calculating your true losses may require medical documentation, documentation from your employer that proves lost wages, and expert or specialist reviews. A good attorney will see the need to incorporate expected future medical needs or long-term impacts that must be compensated in your claim.
Final Thoughts
Accidents involving rideshare vehicles, such as Uber and Lyft, are more complex than regular auto accidents, especially in a busy city like Los Angeles. Rideshare accidents involve rideshare companies, app data, various insurance policies, legal loopholes, and many more. Because of these added layers, injured victims often struggle to get the compensation they deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a collision with a rideshare vehicle, don’t attempt to maneuver it yourself. You should consult with an attorney who understands the complexities that accompany rideshare crashes.
