Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Hurt in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Rideshare accidents are more complicated than regular car accidents because more than one insurance policy may apply, and which one depends on what the driver was doing at the moment of the crash. Lipel Law helps passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, and rideshare drivers figure out who is responsible and pursue the coverage that applies.

Consultations are free, and you pay no attorney's fees unless we win your case. If we don't win, you owe nothing, including case costs.

Whose Insurance Applies?

California law ties rideshare insurance to the driver's status in the app.

App off: the driver is a private driver, and their personal auto insurance applies.

App on, waiting for a ride request: lower liability limits apply, provided through the rideshare company's coverage.

Ride accepted, driving to the pickup, or carrying a passenger: the rideshare company's coverage must provide at least $1 million in liability coverage.

What Changed in 2026

In 2025, California passed SB 371, which took effect in 2026 and lowered the uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage rideshare companies must carry during trips from $1 million to $60,000 per person and $300,000 per accident. That matters if an uninsured driver hits your Uber or Lyft. Your own uninsured motorist coverage may become more important.

Passengers and People Hit by Rideshare Drivers

If you were a passenger: passengers are almost never at fault. You may have a claim against the rideshare driver's coverage, the other driver if they caused the crash, or both.

If you were hit by a rideshare driver: get a photo or screenshot showing the driver was using Uber or Lyft, if possible, and note whether there was a passenger. This helps establish which coverage applies.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

Get medical care and call the police if anyone is hurt. Take screenshots of your ride in the app, including the driver's name and trip details. Photograph the vehicles and scene, and get witness information. Report the accident through the app, but keep your description short and factual. Talk to a lawyer before giving a recorded statement to any insurance company.

Rideshare Accident FAQs

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly? Rideshare drivers are generally treated as independent contractors, so claims usually proceed through the required insurance coverage rather than against the company itself. We review all possible sources of recovery.

How long do I have? Most rideshare injury claims follow California's two-year personal injury deadline. Trip data and video can disappear much sooner, so don't wait.

Call (818) 904-0100 for a free consultation with attorney Katherine Lipel.