Los Angeles Uber & Lyft Accident Attorney

Rideshare Accidents in Southern California

Were you hit by a rideshare driver or seriously injured as an Uber or Lyft passenger? Did you get into a crash that was someone else’s fault while working for a rideshare company? Either way, you may be living with painful, debilitating injuries and wondering how you will be able to pay your medical bills and keep up with everyday expenses while out of work.

If you were hurt in an auto accident involving an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare vehicle and another individual or entity was to blame, you should not have to pay the consequences yourself. Attorney Scott J. Corwin has more than 30 years of experience in personal injury law with a focus on motor vehicle accidents. In his career, he has obtained more than $175 million in compensation for over 3,000 clients, and he is prepared to give your case the personalized attention it deserves.

In California, you only have a limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit. Contact Scott J. Corwin, A Professional Law Corporation right away to avoid missing the deadline to file. The sooner you reach out to our team, the sooner we can begin gathering evidence and building a powerful, persuasive case on your behalf. We proudly serve clients throughout Southern California, including in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, San Diego, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties.

Contact us online or call our office at (310) 683-2300 today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with our rideshare accident attorney in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Rideshare Laws

Rideshare drivers are typically required to meet certain criteria, including age, driving experience, and passing background checks. They may also need to have a valid driver's license and a vehicle that meets specified standards.

Vehicles used for rideshare services may need to meet certain safety and emission standards. Additionally, there may be specific requirements regarding the vehicle's model year, insurance coverage, and inspections.

Rideshare drivers are often required to have insurance coverage that meets both state and platform-specific standards. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft generally provide insurance coverage during different phases of the ride (e.g., while the driver is actively engaged in a ride).

The Three Rideshare Accident Scenarios

There are several different rideshare accident scenarios, each of which has unique implications when it comes to recovering compensation for damages. For example, the same rules do not necessarily apply when someone is injured as an Uber or Lyft passenger vs. as the driver or passenger of another vehicle. Fault, including comparative fault, also plays a role in how different types of rideshare accident claims are settled.

Below, we have outlined the three most common types of rideshare accidents and how they may affect the victim’s ability to recover compensation:

• Type 1: Struck by a Rideshare Driver/Vehicle: In such cases, the rideshare driver is typically considered negligent, and the injured victim is the driver or passenger of a separate vehicle or a pedestrian or bicyclist on the road. The rideshare company carries liability insurance, so the victim and their attorney pursue medical expenses and recovery from the rideshare company and driver. Most rideshare companies carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance.
• Type 2: Rideshare Driver Crashes: If the rideshare driver crashes or otherwise causes an accident due to negligence or wrongful conduct, and the injured victim is a passenger inside of the rideshare vehicle, the victim may pursue compensation from the rideshare company. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft carry liability insurance, so the victim and their attorney can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering from the rideshare company. Most rideshare companies, including Uber and Lyft, now carry $1,000,000 in liability insurance coverage for injured passengers.
• Type 3: Struck While Riding in a Rideshare Vehicle: When the injured victim is a paying passenger taking an Uber or Lyft, and the rideshare car is hit by another vehicle but the rideshare driver is not at fault, the injured victim must file a third-party claim. Because the rideshare driver was not at fault, the third-party claim must be brought against the at-fault driver. There are situations where the at-fault driver carries no insurance or is underinsured. Medical and financial recovery is still possible, as most rideshare companies now carry $1,000,000 in uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM).

Regardless of the specific circumstances of your crash, Scott J. Corwin, A Professional Law Corporation can help. Based in Los Angeles, our rideshare accident attorney helps victims of Uber and Lyft accidents throughout Southern California. Our firm has recovered millions of dollars in compensation, and we are ready to fight for you.

Who Can Be Held Liable for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Liability in an Uber or Lyft accident can depend on various factors and may involve multiple parties. Here are some potential scenarios:

• Driver Liability: Though they are professional drivers, people who drive for Uber do not always act with sufficient care. For example, an Uber driver may become distracted by the Uber app on their phone, the radio, or interacting with their passengers. Or they may simply fail to watch for other cars or motorcycles when changing lanes or making turns.
• Rideshare Company Liability: Uber or Lyft could be held liable under certain circumstances. For example, if the accident occurred during an active ride (when a passenger is in the car) and was caused by a flaw in the app, the company might be considered partially responsible.
• Third-Party Liability: Other drivers or entities not directly associated with the rideshare service may also be held liable if their actions contributed to the accident.
• Vehicle Manufacturer or Maintenance Provider: If the accident resulted from a defect in the vehicle or inadequate maintenance, the manufacturer or maintenance provider might be held responsible.
• Local Regulations: Liability can also be influenced by local laws and regulations, which may vary.

Common Mistakes After a Rideshare Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, and certain missteps may jeopardize your ability to secure compensation. Here are the three most frequent errors victims make:

1. Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Many individuals delay medical treatment, assuming their injuries are minor. However, some injuries could worsen or become apparent later. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly after the rideshare accident to assess any hidden or delayed injuries.
2. Not Gathering Evidence at the Scene: Often, victims neglect to collect vital evidence immediately after the crash. Essential steps include taking photos of the accident scene, exchanging information with the driver, and obtaining contact details of witnesses. This evidence can be crucial when pursuing compensation from the rideshare company or liable parties.
3. Neglecting to Report the Accident: Some individuals assume it's unnecessary to report the incident to Uber, Lyft, or the authorities. Failing to do so can hinder your case. Reporting the accident establishes an official record, which is often pivotal for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Avoiding these common mistakes can strengthen your case and improve your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. If you need assistance, contact Scott J. Corwin, A Professional Law Corporation for guidance from an experienced rideshare accident attorney.

Why You Need an Experienced Los Angeles Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare accidents are not the same as standard car accidents. Many unique rules apply to these types of claims. You need someone who has extensive experience in this area of law who can fight for you and the full compensation you are owed.

Here are some advantages:

• Legal Expertise: We, as experienced lawyers, have a deep understanding of personal injury laws, rideshare regulations, and the complexities of accident cases. This expertise allows us to navigate the legal system efficiently on behalf of our clients.
• Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We can conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the accident. This includes obtaining witness statements, reviewing available evidence, and working with experts if necessary. Our goal is to build a strong case to support your claim.
• Determining Liability: In rideshare accidents, determining liability can be complex. We have the knowledge to identify the responsible parties, whether it's the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, or other third parties. This understanding is crucial for seeking appropriate compensation.
• Communication with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. We can handle communications with insurance providers on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
• Negotiation Experience: Our negotiation skills come into play when working to settle a claim. We aim to negotiate the best possible settlement for our clients, taking into account medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other relevant factors.
• Litigation Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, we are prepared to represent you in court. Our litigation experience allows us to present a compelling case before a judge and jury to seek the compensation you deserve.
• Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be stressful. By hiring us, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind during a challenging time.

When you trust your case to the team at Scott J. Corwin, A Professional Law Corporation, you will receive direct, personal attention from a highly skilled and award-winning Los Angeles Uber/Lyft accident attorney. Your case will never be passed off to an associate or paralegal. Scott is committed to helping his clients every step of the way, providing answers to your questions, and handling every legal detail so that you can focus on what matters most: healing and moving forward with your life.

Injured in a Rideshare Accident? Call Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in an accident or lost a loved one due to a rideshare driver’s negligence, turn to the team at Scott J. Corwin, A Professional Law Corporation. Since 1992, our firm has been fighting for justice on behalf of severely injured individuals and the families of those wrongfully killed throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles County, the Inland Empire, Orange County, and the surrounding areas.

We accept contingency fees, meaning you do not owe any upfront or out-of-pocket expenses when you work with our firm. Instead, we only recover attorney fees if and when we secure a settlement or verdict for you.

Reach out to us today at (310) 683-2300 or contact us online to set up a FREE initial consultation with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer in Los Angeles.