If you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Los Angeles, you may find yourself dealing with a complex and confusing legal situation. While rideshare companies have made it more convenient to reach your destination, accidents can and do happen.

Whether you have been injured as a passenger in Van Nuys or an Uber or Lyft vehicle hit your car, your best course of action is to hire an experienced Uber and Lyft accident attorney. Knoll Law Group is a leading Uber and Lyft accident firmin Van Nuys, and we are here to guide you through this complex situation so you can get the compensation you deserve.

What Should You Do If You’re Injured by Uber or Lyft as a Passenger?

If you are involved in an accident while riding as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft in Van Nuys, your first priority is always your health and safety. However, whenever possible, you should take immediate steps to gather information at the scene of the accident. This will be important when you need an Uber accident attorney in Los Angeles.

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not manifest right away, and a medical evaluation can document your condition.
2. Collect Information: If you’re physically able, collect information from the accident scene, including driver information, insurance details, and witness contact information. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
3. Contact the Police: Report the accident to the police. A police report can serve as valuable evidence in your case.
4. Contact an Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney: As soon as you can, reach out to an Uber and Lyft accident attorney at Knoll Law Group. We will guide you on how to proceed, help you communicate with insurance companies, and protect your rights throughout the process.

What If an Uber or Lyft Hits Your Car?

If you are hit by a rideshare driver while driving your own car, the process is very similar to being involved as a rideshare passenger. However, it’s important to follow through with each step.

1. Safety First: Ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers. Move your vehicle to a safe location, if possible, and check for injuries.
2. Exchange Information: Exchange information with the Uber or Lyft driver involved in the accident. Gather driver details, insurance information, and vehicle information.
3. Witness Information: If there are any witnesses, obtain their contact information. Their statements may be necessary in determining fault.
4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any relevant road signs or traffic signals.
5. Contact the Police: Report the accident to the police. A police report will document the incident and provide an official account of what happened.
6. Contact an Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney: Consult with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer at Knoll Law Group, as we specialize in rideshare accidents. We will help you navigate the claims process, deal with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for your damages.

How Is Liability Determined in a Lyft or Uber Accident?

Determining liability in an Uber accident in Van Nuys, California, a comparative fault state, involves several factors due to the involvement of rideshare services. Liability is influenced by the following aspects:

1. Driver Period: Liability hinges significantly on the Uber driver’s status at the time of the accident. Rideshare drivers operate under different periods:

App Off (Offline): If the driver’s app is off, indicating they are not actively seeking passengers, their personal insurance generally applies, and liability may be divided based on each party’s degree of fault.

App On, No Passenger (Period 1): When the driver’s app is on but they haven’t accepted a ride request or picked up a passenger, the rideshare company’s contingent liability coverage may come into play.

2. En Route to Pick Up (Period 2): While the driver is en route to pick up a passenger after accepting a ride request, the rideshare company’s commercial insurance usually covers them. In California, comparative fault can impact the distribution of damages among the involved parties.
3. Passenger in the Vehicle (Period 3): Once a passenger is inside the vehicle, the rideshare company’s commercial insurance typically applies, covering both the driver and the passenger. In the event of an accident, comparative fault principles may be used to assess each party’s contribution to the accident and allocate liability accordingly.
4. Third-Party Liability: If another driver is at fault in the accident, their insurance may be primarily responsible for covering damages.
5. Negligence and Comparative Fault: Establishing negligence is important for determining liability in California.
6. Witness Testimony and Evidence: Witness accounts, photographic evidence of the accident scene, and surveillance footage can significantly influence the determination of liability. These pieces of evidence can help reconstruct the events leading up to the accident.
7. Rideshare Company Policies: Uber and Lyft have specific policies for their drivers. Violations of these policies may impact liability, with fault assigned based on the degree of compliance or non-compliance with company guidelines.

Given California’s comparative fault system, you should consult with an experienced Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident lawyer in Van Nuys at Knoll Law Group. We can assess your case’s specific details, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that your rights are protected.

What’s the Difference Between an Uber Accident and a Regular Car Accident?

The primary difference between an accident involving Uber or Lyft is that rideshare companies have different levels of insurance coverage, depending on the period the driver was in when the accident occurred. However, there are additional differences.

1. Insurance Coverage: Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that cover accidents involving their drivers. These policies can provide higher coverage limits than personal auto insurance policies, which can be beneficial for accident victims.
2. Complex Liability: Rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, other drivers, and passengers. Determining liability can be more complex than in a standard car accident.
3. Rideshare Company Policies: Uber and Lyft have specific policies and protocols for handling accidents. Understanding these policies and how they apply to your case is essential for a successful claim.
4. Regulatory Issues: Rideshare companies are subject to unique regulations and legal requirements. These can impact liability and the compensation available to accident victims.

Why You Need an Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney

Navigating the legal and insurance issues after a rideshare accident can be complicated. Hiring the best rideshare accident attorneys in Van Nuys at Knoll Law Group can ensure that you are getting the best possible results.

1. Specialized Expertise: Rideshare accidents are legally complex, including issues related to insurance coverage, liability, and regulations. Experienced Uber and Lyft accident attorneys at Knoll Law Group understand these nuances and can navigate the legal landscape effectively.
2. Maximize Compensation: Your attorney’s primary goal is to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. We will evaluate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court to secure the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
3. Legal Protection: Having a dedicated attorney on your side provides you with legal protection. We will advocate for your rights and ensure you aren’t taken advantage of by insurance companies or rideshare companies.

Hire A Lyft and Uber Accident Attorney in Los Angeles

If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Los Angeles, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced rideshare accident lawyer. We are the best rideshare accident attorney in Van Nuys, specializing in helping clients navigate the complexities of these unique cases.

We will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t face the challenges of a rideshare accident alone—contact us at (818) 610-0955 or complete our online form to protect your rights.