Imagine you’re in Pasadena, catching an Uber or Lyft to meet friends. Suddenly, the unexpected happens—a serious collision. In the aftermath, you’re left injured with mounting medical bills and countless questions.
Who’s responsible? How will you cover your expenses? What happens if your driver was at fault? What if another driver caused the crash?
At Peerali Law, you’ll work with a Pasadena rideshare accident lawyer who understands the turmoil you’re experiencing. We’re here to guide you every step of the way. You don’t have to go through this alone—we treat our clients like family and fight relentlessly for their rights.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Pasadena
Ridesharing has revolutionized transportation in Pasadena and beyond. Services like Uber and Lyft offer convenience but also introduce complexities when accidents occur.
Unlike traditional car accidents, where liability is often straightforward, rideshare accidents involve multiple parties, including the driver, the rideshare company, and even third-party insurance providers.
Determining who is responsible for covering your damages isn’t always clear-cut, and navigating the legal landscape can be daunting. That’s why working with an experienced Pasadena rideshare accident lawyer is essential.
Who’s Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
In California, liability in rideshare accidents depends on the driver’s status at the time of the incident. Because Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, their responsibility for accidents isn’t always automatic. Here’s how rideshare liability breaks down:
- App off. A driver’s personal insurance applies if they aren’t logged into the rideshare app when the collision occurs. This means Uber and Lyft bear no responsibility, and you must file a claim through the driver’s auto policy.
- App on, no passenger. When the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride, both their personal insurance and the rideshare company’s contingent liability coverage may come into play. Uber and Lyft provide up to $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage in these cases.
- En route or passenger onboard. Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. This coverage extends to injured passengers, other drivers, and even pedestrians involved in the accident.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial when pursuing rightful compensation. If you are unsure which category applies to your accident, our Lyft and Uber accident lawyer in Pasadena can evaluate your case and provide clear guidance.
Your Rights As an Injured Passenger
As a passenger injured in a rideshare accident, you can seek compensation for a range of damages. Many people underestimate the long-term effects of an accident, but injuries can lead to ongoing medical needs, emotional distress, and even financial instability.
The good news? You are not responsible for covering these costs if someone else is at fault. Your claim may include:
- Medical expenses. Compensation for current and future healthcare costs related to the accident, including hospital visits, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover lost income, including potential future earnings.
- Pain and suffering. Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life due to the accident.
- Property damage. If you had personal belongings damaged in the crash, such as a phone, laptop, or luggage, you may be entitled to reimbursement.
California’s comparative fault laws mean that even if you share some responsibility, you can still recover damages proportionate to the other party’s fault. The key is ensuring you have strong legal representation to advocate for your rights. Our Pasadena Lyft and Uber accident attorney can help build a strong case on your behalf.
Choose an Experienced Pasadena Rideshare Accident Lawyer
At Peerali Law, we’re more than just attorneys—we’re your advocates, confidants, and, most importantly, your extended family. We recognize an accident’s emotional and physical toll and are committed to easing your burden. Our goal is to make the legal process as stress-free as possible so that you can focus on healing.
Personalized Attention
Every case is unique, and so is our approach. Unlike large firms that treat clients like case numbers, we take the time to understand your story, tailoring our strategies to meet your specific needs and goals. We communicate openly and ensure you never feel lost or unsure about your case’s progress.
Proven Track Record
Our firm has successfully recovered millions for personal injury clients. We have extensive experience handling rideshare accident cases and understand the nuances of insurance policies and legal requirements. With our knowledge and commitment, we can fight aggressively to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Contingency Fee Basis
Worried about legal fees? Don’t be. With our contingency fee arrangement, you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Doing so allows our interests to be fully aligned with yours—we only get paid if you do. There are no upfront costs, retainers, or hidden fees.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
The steps you take immediately following an accident can significantly impact your claim. Many victims make mistakes, such as failing to gather evidence or accepting a low settlement offer from an insurance company. To protect your rights, follow these steps:
- Seek medical attention. Your health should always come first. Even if your injuries seem minor, consult a healthcare professional to ensure there are no hidden issues like concussions or internal injuries.
- Document everything. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Gather the driver’s name, insurance details, and rideshare app information, as well as statements from anyone who witnessed the accident.
- Report the incident. Notify the rideshare company through their app and file a police report. Having an official record of the accident will help support your claim.
- Consult a Pasadena rideshare accident lawyer. Before speaking with insurance companies, contact us to ensure your rights are protected. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim, but we will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Taking these steps early on can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. The more evidence and documentation you have, the stronger your claim will be. If you need assistance, our team at Peerali Law is ready to help.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer?
One of the most common concerns people have is the cost of legal representation. At Peerali Law, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our fees are a percentage of the settlement or verdict, and if we don’t recover for you, you owe us nothing. This structure ensures that you can access high-quality legal representation without financial strain.
Contact a Pasadena Lyft and Uber Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Pasadena, don’t navigate this journey alone. The aftermath of an accident is stressful, but with the right legal team on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
Our dedicated team is ready to listen to your story, answer your questions, and develop a strategy that puts you on the path to recovery. With Peerali Law, you gain more than legal representation—you gain a team that truly cares about your well-being. Contact us today by calling us at 818-688-4050 or filling out our secure contact form for a free consultation.