Rideshare accidents are not uncommon in and around this area. Due to the complexities of these cases, crash victims must work with a skilled Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident attorney. The ride-sharing industry continues to grow to provide Southern California residents with an alternative to traditional taxi services. Companies such as Uber and Lyft take advantage of Smartphone technology to streamline access to transit using an app that matches passengers to drivers. With the streamlined business model in this emerging industry, there is tremendous pressure on drivers to complete fares quickly and make more money. Distractions from cell phones, GPS devices, and the pressures of the job often lead to serious accidents.
California lawmakers have scrambled to create a patchwork of regulations that apply to this nontraditional form of taxicab or livery service. The relationship between the ride-share company and its drivers creates complexity in obtaining maximum compensation for injuries suffered in an accident.
Insurance Issues After An Uber Or Lyft Accident
Perhaps the most challenging aspect of accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles is dealing with insurance carriers. To be sure, insurance carriers are notoriously difficult to deal with after any type of vehicle accident. However, after an Uber or Lyft accident, you will be dealing with even more insurance carriers, none of which want to pay out a large settlement.
Both Uber and Lyft handle insurance in a “tiered” manner that depends on the status of a driver at the time of the crash occurs.
- If the rideshare driver causes a crash when they are not signed into the app to work, then they are considered to be on their personal time, and the crash will be handled like any other vehicle collision in the state of California. The driver’s personal insurance carrier will be responsible for covering damages to other parties.
- If the rideshare driver causes a crash when they are signed into the app to work, but they do not have a passenger, then their personal insurance carrier is still going to be primarily responsible for damages. Both Uber and Lyft do offer limited coverage in this scenario, but only if the driver’s personal carrier refuses the claim or if the policy limits are maxed out.
- If the rideshare driver is signed into the app to work and has a passenger, or is on the way to pick one up, then anybody involved in the crash will be covered by Uber or Lyft’s $1 million liability insurance policy.
Accidents Involving Rideshare Vehicles Are Going To Occur
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, we know that there were more than 272,000 people injured in traffic collisions across the state during the latest reporting year. Vehicle accidents are simply a reality in a place as crowded as Los Angeles in the surrounding areas. While the state does not keep track of how many of these accidents involve rideshare vehicles, these incidents do occur.
It is important to point out that Uber and Lyft drivers typically have no more driver training than anybody else on the roadway. Aside from having a valid driver’s license and a vehicle that passes inspection, there are really no additional requirements in place to become an Uber or Lyft driver. These drivers are just as prone to making mistakes and getting into an accident as anybody else. Some of the most common causes of rideshare vehicle accidents include:
- Operating while distracted by a phone, particularly when interacting with the rideshare company’s app.
- Operating while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Failing to follow traffic laws.
A skilled Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident attorney will be able to conduct a complete investigation into the crash in order to determine liability.
Looking Out For The Best Interests of Each Client
Uber accident claims in Los Angeles require a detailed analysis of the circumstances surrounding the crash and complex insurance coverage issues involving both the driver’s and the company’s insurance policies. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving an Uber, Lyft, or other ride-share industry drivers, it is critical for you to work with a Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident attorney who has a strong command of personal injury, liability and insurance law to protect your rights.
The Los Angeles Law Offices of Howard Kornberg has a solid track record of success in maximizing compensation for accident victims and their families throughout California. While past performance does not guarantee future results, our legal team draws on more than 35 years of experience to protect the best interests of our clients. Our vast knowledge of insurance coverage is a clear strength in fighting to maximize recovery after an Uber accident. Our legal team utilizes an aggressive and comprehensive approach to help place each client in the best position to succeed.
car accident lawyer Howard Craig Kornberg is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) and holds an AV Preeminent rating* from Martindale-Hubbell for his trial skills and ethical standards.
THE INITIAL CONSULTATION IS FREE.
Just one ride-sharing accident can be devastating. It can result in huge hospital bills, constant medical treatment along with the high cost of damages, and lost wages due to missed time from work. It is vital to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer who is dedicated to holding big business and negligent drivers accountable for the harm they cause. Attorney Howard Craig Kornberg and his legal team are ready to help. He understands the challenges and obstacles accident victims face on a daily basis. Take the first towards recovering the maximum compensation you deserve. Send us an email or call 310-997-0904. Schedule a free initial Consultation from Los Angeles Uber & LYFT Accident Attorney Howard Craig Kornberg to understand your legal option. Our focus is always on obtaining optimal results to help injury victims recover with dignity.
