Rideshare Driver or Passenger? Legal Steps to Take After a California Uber or Lyft Accident

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a standard part of daily life in San Diego and California. Whether used for commuting, running errands, or traveling safely after a night out, these platforms offer convenience and accessibility. However, when an Uber or Lyft ride ends in a crash, passengers and drivers often find themselves confused about what steps to take and how to protect their legal rights.

At National Injury Help, our San Diego County personal injury lawyers understand that rideshare-related injuries present unique legal challenges. Liability, insurance coverage, and compensation can vary significantly depending on whether you were a passenger, a rideshare driver, or another driver involved in the crash.

We are here to help you make sense of the legal process and confidently move forward.

Key Steps to Take Immediately After a Rideshare Accident

If you are involved in an Uber or Lyft crash in California, your priority should always be your safety and health. Once emergency medical needs are addressed, protecting your ability to pursue a claim is essential.

Key steps include:

• Call 911 and request a police report, even if injuries seem minor.
• Document the scene with photos of all vehicles, damage, license plates, and surroundings.
• Gather contact and insurance information from all drivers involved.
• Collect witness names and contact details, if available.
• Take screenshots of your rideshare trip details, including time, location, and driver information.
• Seek medical attention as soon as possible and follow all treatment recommendations.
• Avoid discussing the crash or posting about it on social media.

Even if you are unsure whether you will file a claim, taking these steps early helps preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.

How Insurance Works in Uber and Lyft Accidents

Uber and Lyft provide layered insurance coverage for drivers and passengers. The coverage that applies depends on the stage of the ride when the crash occurred.

• App Off: The driver’s auto insurance applies when not logged into the app.
• App On, Waiting for Ride Request: Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage if the driver’s insurance does not apply.
• En Route to Pick Up or With a Passenger: Full commercial coverage from the rideshare company applies, including up to $1 million in liability and uninsured motorist coverage.

Passengers are typically covered under Uber or Lyft’s insurance during an active trip. However, navigating this process is rarely simple. Determining which insurer is responsible and whether coverage is sufficient often requires legal assistance.

Let National Injury Help Advocate for You After a Rideshare Injury

The legal process can feel overwhelming, whether you were a rideshare driver, passenger, or another person hurt in a crash involving Uber or Lyft. At National Injury Help, we have experience handling complex rideshare claims and fighting insurance companies that try to deny or minimize payouts.

Our San Diego personal injury lawyers can help you pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses.
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering.
• Emotional distress.
• Property damage.
• Permanent disability or disfigurement.

We are here to guide you from the initial claim through settlement or trial, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

Contact National Injury Help today for a free consultation. We are ready to stand by your side and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve after a California rideshare crash.

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