Rideshare Accident Claims: Uber and Lyft Liability in California

Who Is Liable When You Are Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in California, but they have also created a complex web of liability questions when accidents occur. Whether you were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, or are a rideshare driver yourself, understanding who is responsible for your injuries — and which insurance policies apply — is critical to recovering fair compensation.

California’s Rideshare Insurance Requirements

California was one of the first states to regulate rideshare companies. Under the California Public Utilities Commission regulations and AB 2293 (now Insurance Code Section 11580.24), rideshare companies must provide specific levels of insurance depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

App Off — The driver’s personal auto insurance applies. Uber and Lyft provide no coverage.

App On, Waiting for a Ride Request — Uber and Lyft must provide at least $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident in bodily injury liability and $30,000 in property damage liability.

En Route to Pick Up or During a Trip — Uber and Lyft must provide $1 million in commercial liability coverage per accident, plus $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

If You Were a Rideshare Passenger

As a passenger, you are in the strongest legal position. You were not at fault for the accident regardless of which driver caused it. If your Uber or Lyft driver caused the crash, Uber or Lyft’s $1 million commercial policy covers your injuries. If another driver caused the crash, you can file a claim against that driver’s insurance, and if their coverage is insufficient, Uber or Lyft’s UM/UIM coverage fills the gap.

If You Were Hit by a Rideshare Driver

If an Uber or Lyft driver caused your accident while they were actively on a trip or en route to pick up a passenger, you can file a claim against Uber or Lyft’s $1 million commercial liability policy. If they were waiting for a ride request, the lower coverage tiers apply. If the app was off, you would file against the driver’s personal insurance.

Challenges in Rideshare Accident Claims

Rideshare accident claims are more complex than standard car accident claims. Uber and Lyft often try to classify drivers as independent contractors to distance themselves from liability. Determining the driver’s exact status at the time of the accident requires obtaining records from the rideshare company. Multiple insurance policies may be involved, each with different coverage limits and deductibles.

Experienced Rideshare Accident Attorneys

At Smilove & Rosenblum, we understand the unique legal landscape of rideshare accident claims. We know how to obtain the necessary records from Uber and Lyft, navigate multiple insurance policies, and hold the right parties accountable. Call (800) 300-3226 for a free consultation.

Related Resources

• Practice Area: Car Accident Attorney Services
• Practice Area: Pedestrian Accidents Involving Rideshare Vehicles
• What to Do After a Car Accident in California
• Dealing with Insurance Adjusters After an Accident