Rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft are more complicated than typical car accident claims, because the insurance coverage that applies depends on what the driver was doing at the moment of the crash. Call or text today for a free consultation.
How Rideshare Insurance Coverage Works
California Public Utilities Code section 5433 sets minimum insurance that a transportation network company must provide, depending on the driver's status:
App on, no ride accepted: at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per incident for death and personal injury, and $30,000 for property damage, with at least $200,000 per occurrence in excess coverage. If the driver's own policy has lapsed or been canceled, the company must provide the required coverage from the first dollar of a claim.
Ride accepted until the ride is complete: $1,000,000 for death, personal injury and property damage.
Passenger in the vehicle: uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage of $60,000 per person and $300,000 per incident, which the statute makes primary and the company's obligation.
These are statutory minimums. The statute does not limit a company's liability for damages above the required insurance.
Why These Claims Are More Complex
Depending on what the driver was doing, your claim may involve:
The rideshare company's insurance
The rideshare driver's own insurance
The other driver's insurance, if a different vehicle caused the accident
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, if applicable
Determining which policy applies, and at what limits, is often the central issue.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
Note the details of the ride, including when it was accepted, when the passenger was picked up, and the trip status at the time of the accident. Screenshots of the app can help.
Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor at first
Document the scene with photos, witness information and the accident report
Be careful about giving a recorded statement to any insurance company before speaking with an attorney
Consult an attorney if your claim stalls or the coverage picture is unclear
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter whether I was a passenger or a pedestrian hit by a rideshare vehicle?
It can. The uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage in section 5433 is tied to a passenger being in the vehicle. Which coverage applies to a pedestrian or another driver depends on what the rideshare driver was doing at the time of the crash.
What if the rideshare driver wasn't logged into the app at all?
Section 5433 sets requirements for the periods it describes, which begin when the driver logs on. If the driver was not logged on, other insurance, such as the driver's personal policy, may be the relevant coverage.
How long do I have to file a claim in California?
The statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits in California is two years (Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1). Deadlines can be shorter in some situations, so ask promptly.
Talk to a Santa Clarita Rideshare Accident Attorney Today
