Los Angeles Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Uber and Lyft carry commercial liability coverage that applies when a driver is on the app, and higher limits apply once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the car. Which coverage applies depends on the app status at the moment of the crash, so screenshots and trip records matter.
The coverage depends on app status
App off: only the driver’s personal policy applies. App on and waiting for a request: contingent coverage with lower limits. On the way to a rider or carrying a passenger: the higher commercial policy applies.
That is why saving your trip receipt, driver name, and the time of the crash is more useful than most people realize.
Passengers are rarely at fault
If you were in the back seat, you almost certainly did nothing wrong, which usually simplifies liability. The real work is sorting out which policy pays and making sure the medical picture is complete before anyone talks numbers.
Working with a rideshare accident lawyer in Los Angeles
Our office is at 10850 Wilshire Blvd # 375 in Westwood, just off the 405 and a short drive from West LA, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Century City, and Beverly Hills. Sam Schmuel handles cases throughout Los Angeles County.
We work on a contingency fee, which means you pay nothing up front and nothing at all unless we recover money for you. We speak English and Spanish, and we can come to you if you are still in the hospital or recovering at home.
If you're not sure where to start, just call us at (310) 601-7289. The consultation is free, and there's no fee unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I sue Uber or the driver?
Claims are usually made against the applicable insurance policy, which may be the driver’s personal insurer or the rideshare company’s commercial coverage depending on app status.
What if another driver caused the crash?
You can pursue that driver’s insurance, and rideshare uninsured or underinsured coverage may also apply if their limits are too low.
What should I save after the crash?
The trip receipt, driver and vehicle details, screenshots from the app, the police report number, and photographs of the scene and your injuries.
How long do I have to file?
Generally two years from the date of the crash in California.