California Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Injured in an Uber or Lyft crash? You're not alone and you're not without options.
At Westside Injury Lawyers, located in Pasadena, we help clients across California recover compensation after rideshare accidents. Whether you were a passenger, a pedestrian, or driving another vehicle, our team knows how to handle the legal complexities unique to Uber and Lyft collisions.
Why Uber and Lyft Accidents Are Legally Complicated in California
Rideshare laws in California are continually evolving. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and recent legislation like AB 5 have shaped how Uber and Lyft drivers are classified and how their insurance obligations work. These rules directly affect how accident claims are handled.
For more details, visit the California Department of Insurance rideshare regulations page.
Unlike regular car accidents, Uber and Lyft crashes involve multiple layers of insurance coverage and corporate policies. Determining who’s liable—driver, rideshare company, another motorist—requires a deep understanding of California’s evolving rideshare laws.
Key legal differences include:
Multiple insurance policies (personal vs. commercial)
Coverage windows (when the app is on, a ride is active, etc.)
Independent contractor vs. employee arguments
Without legal representation, rideshare victims often get lowballed or denied by insurers.
Unique California Rideshare Laws You Should Know
California has a specialized legal framework governing rideshare companies—crucial for understanding liability after an Uber or Lyft crash:
AB 2293 (2014) requires TNCs (like Uber/Lyft) to carry at least $50,000/$100,000 bodily injury and $30,000 property damage coverage when the driver is app-on but unassigned, and $1 million in liability (and uninsured/underinsured motorist) coverage once a match is accepted or during the ride CPUC rules dictate three distinct coverage phases:
App on, no match – personal insurance may not cover; TNCs must have $50k/$100k/$30k primary coverage + $200k excess
Match accepted – TNCs must provide $1 million primary liability, plus $1 million UM/UIM .
Passenger onboard – same TNC coverage of $1 million liability + $1 million UM/UIM .
Additionally, Proposition 22 (2020) keeps Uber and Lyft drivers classified as independent contractors but requires minimum pay, expense reimbursement, medical cost coverage, and safety protections
For the full official insurance breakdown, check the California Department of Insurance: Insurance and Transportation Network Companies page
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Policies and Coverage Windows
Uber and Lyft drivers are covered by different insurance policies depending on their status at the time of the accident:
App off: Only the driver’s personal insurance applies.
App on, no passenger: Limited liability coverage from Uber/Lyft may apply.
Ride accepted or passenger in car: Up to $1 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may be available.
Knowing which phase applies is crucial in maximizing your claim. We help clients interpret policy language and ensure the appropriate carrier pays what you’re owed.
Who Our Pasadena Rideshare Accident Lawyers Represent
Passengers injured during an Uber/Lyft ride
Drivers hit by a rideshare vehicle
Rideshare drivers hurt on the job
Pedestrians or bicyclists struck by an Uber or Lyft
If your injuries were caused by a negligent or reckless rideshare driver or if you were working as one, Westside Injury Lawyers is here to help.
What Compensation You Can Claim After an Uber or Lyft Accident in California
Our experienced Pasadena accident attorneys fight to recover:
Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost income and diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Punitive damages in extreme negligence cases
I want to say thank you to Westside injury lawyers, for your professionalism and most of all your commitment, not just only to help us and guide us in this long waiting difficult journey after my family and I were involve on a unexpected car accident!!!!
The staff was so amazing on answering all our Q&A’s from the moment the case took place, Natalia always help us understand each and every step from paperwork, doctor visits, therapy and towards the end of closing our case it felt like she never let go of my family’s hand the entire journey until Westside injury lawyers kept there promise of winning our case 100%…..
Most definitely I recommend Westside injury lawyers to the whole world!!!!!!
Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Pasadena
Seek medical care immediately.
Get screenshots of the ride details from your app.
Gather insurance info from all drivers involved.
Document the scene (photos, witness contacts, police report).
Speak to a rideshare accident attorney before talking to insurers.
Why Hire a Pasadena Uber Accident Lawyer from Westside Injury Lawyers
Explore all our Personal Injury Services
Proven results in complex rideshare cases
Deep knowledge of California rideshare laws
Free consultations and no fees unless we win
Based locally in Pasadena and serving all of Southern California
Get Your Free Case Evaluation Today
Don’t let Uber or Lyft’s insurance company delay or deny your rightful compensation. Call (877) 834-1311 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
