Rideshare Accidents
And we're not your typical lawyers.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in San Francisco and the Bay Area. Millions of passengers rely on these app-based services every day. But when an accident happens involving a rideshare vehicle, the legal landscape becomes far more complex than a typical car accident.
If you've been injured as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle or struck by a rideshare driver, understanding your rights and the insurance coverage involved is critical to getting fair compensation.
Unlike traditional auto accidents, rideshare accidents involve multiple layers of insurance coverage and complex questions about liability. Here's what makes them unique:
Rideshare drivers are self-employed, independent contractors—not employees. This affects who is responsible for insurance coverage and liability.
Coverage depends on whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger, en route to pick up a passenger, or simply had the app on.
Companies like Uber and Lyft provide significant insurance policies, but accessing that coverage requires navigating specific legal requirements.
The driver's personal auto insurance may not cover accidents that occur while working for a rideshare company, creating potential gaps in coverage.
Uber and Lyft provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver's status at the time of the accident:
Driver is logged into the app but hasn't accepted a ride request yet.
Coverage: Limited liability coverage (typically $50,000/$100,000/$25,000)
Driver has accepted a ride request and is driving to the pickup location.
Coverage: $1 million liability + uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Driver is actively transporting a passenger to their destination.
Coverage: $1 million liability + $1 million uninsured/underinsured motorist + contingent comprehensive/collision
Important: The driver's personal auto insurance typically does NOT cover accidents that occur while working for a rideshare company. This is why understanding which phase the driver was in is critical.
If you've been injured in a rideshare accident, our skilled team knows the ins and outs of California auto accidents and rideshare legal claims. We can help:
Remember, the rideshare driver is a self-employed, self-insured contractor. Their personal insurance might not cover your medical expenses. We make sure all available insurance policies are properly accessed and that insurers act in good faith.
If necessary, we pursue claims directly against Uber or Lyft to access their $1 million commercial policies. We understand the legal requirements and procedures to hold these companies accountable.
We fight for full compensation covering medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering—from the driver's insurer and/or the rideshare company. Our aggressive advocacy ensures you're not shortchanged.
Rideshare accidents can happen in various ways, each with unique legal considerations:
You were riding in an Uber or Lyft when the driver caused an accident or another vehicle hit you
An Uber or Lyft driver struck your vehicle, bicycle, or you as a pedestrian
Complex accidents involving rideshare vehicles and multiple other drivers
Accidents caused by rideshare drivers using navigation apps or distracted by their phones
Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
Document everything: take photos of the scene, vehicles, injuries, and app screenshot showing the ride details
Get the driver's information AND the rideshare company's insurance information
Report the accident to the rideshare company through their app
Contact an experienced rideshare accident attorney BEFORE accepting any settlement offers
Beahm Law offers no-cost, no-recovery, no-fee representation on most personal injury matters. You don't pay unless we win your case.
Don't settle your case before speaking to one of our experienced attorneys.
We understand the complex insurance and liability issues unique to rideshare accidents
Voted "Best of SF" four times, with a track record of maximizing compensation
We're not your typical lawyers—we fight aggressively for every client
Insurance companies move fast to minimize payouts. Contact an attorney immediately to protect your rights.
Your case may involve the driver's personal insurance, the rideshare company's policy, and potentially other drivers' insurance.
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Insurance companies often make quick, low settlement offers hoping you'll accept before understanding the full extent of your injuries and damages.
Don't navigate the complex world of rideshare insurance alone. Contact Beahm Law for experienced legal representation that fights for maximum compensation.
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