The convenience of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft has changed how people get around Burbank. Whether heading to the airport, commuting to work, or enjoying a night out, Burbank residents have a flexible and affordable alternative to driving themselves. But when a rideshare trip ends in a collision, the aftermath can be confusing, painful, and legally complex.
At Peerali Law, we understand that rideshare accident victims are often left with more questions than answers. What happens next? Does Uber or Lyft pay for your injuries? How much does it cost to hire a rideshare accident lawyer?
These cases involve overlapping insurance policies, multi-party liability, and a web of legal considerations. With help from a dedicated Burbank rideshare accident lawyer, you can cut through that complexity and pursue the compensation you need to recover.
Liability in rideshare accidents isn’t always straightforward. When someone is hurt in a rideshare-related accident—whether a passenger, another driver, a pedestrian, or even the rideshare driver themselves—the first thing they often wonder is whose insurance pays.
The answer depends on whether the driver was actively using the app. Uber and Lyft provide tiered insurance coverage only under specific conditions. Here’s how the system works.
Driver Is Not Logged into the App
If the driver isn’t logged into the Uber or Lyft app at the time of the crash, they are not considered “on the clock.” In this scenario, the rideshare company’s insurance does not apply. The accident is treated like any other personal vehicle crash, and the driver’s personal auto insurance is responsible for any damages or injuries caused.
Driver Is Logged in But Hasn’t Accepted a Ride
The next possible situation is when the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request but has not yet accepted one. In these cases, limited third-party liability coverage typically provides the following:
- $50,000 per person for death and bodily injury;
- $100,000 per accident total for death and bodily injury; and
- $30,000 for property damage.
Uber and Lyft’s coverage kicks in if the driver’s personal insurance does not apply or is insufficient.
Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Is Transporting a Passenger
Once a driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide the most extensive coverage. During this active period, their commercial insurance policies apply, and they offer up to $1 million in liability coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
This third tier typically offers the strongest protection for injured passengers and others involved in the crash.
The moments after a rideshare accident can be stressful and disorienting. However, taking a few key steps can help protect your health and legal claim. Here’s what to do if you’re involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Burbank:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked out by a healthcare professional. Some injuries—like head trauma or internal damage—may not present symptoms right away but can worsen if left untreated.
- Report the accident through the rideshare app. Both Uber and Lyft have in-app reporting features for accidents. Notify the company immediately and save any confirmation messages or communications you receive.
- Exchange information with all parties involved. Collect names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information from the rideshare driver and any other drivers involved in the crash.
- Take photographs or videos of the scene. Visual evidence can be beneficial in documenting damage, road conditions, injuries, and other vital details that may support your case.
- Gather the contact information of any witnesses. Independent accounts from bystanders can strengthen your claim and help establish what happened in the moments before and after the crash.
- Request an official report. A police report creates an objective record of the accident, which can be essential when determining fault and pursuing compensation.
- Contact a Lyft and Uber accident lawyer in Burbank as soon as possible. A lawyer can guide you through the claims process, help preserve key evidence, and fight to protect your rights from the start.
At Peerali Law, we’re ready to step in quickly and provide clarity during a confusing time. With our guidance, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal and insurance challenges on your behalf.
At Peerali Law, the answer is simple: you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. We believe that legal representation should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we represent clients on a contingency fee basis. There are no upfront fees, hourly charges, or out-of-pocket costs while your case is pending.
We also offer free consultations, so you can discuss your case with us without financial pressure or obligation.
You have two years from the date of a rideshare accident in California to file a personal injury lawsuit. You may lose your right to recover compensation if you miss this deadline. Two years might seem like plenty of time, but building a strong case takes work—especially when dealing with rideshare companies and insurers. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of protecting key evidence and securing the compensation you deserve. Reach out to Peerali Law today to get started.
Speak to a Burbank Lyft and Uber Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a crash involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, you deserve answers and advocacy. These cases are never simple, but with the right legal team, you don’t have to navigate them alone.
As seasoned advocates with years of experience representing victims of catastrophic injuries in California, we are no strangers to the aggressive tactics used by big insurance companies and corporate legal teams. These entities often rely on delay, denial, or intimidation to limit what they owe.
At Peerali Law, we know how to anticipate their moves, counter their arguments, and present compelling, evidence-based claims that demand results. Whether through strategic negotiation or courtroom litigation, we’re fully prepared to hold powerful companies accountable and fight for every dollar our clients deserve.
Call today at 818-688-4050 or fill out our secure contact form for a free consultation with an experienced Burbank rideshare accident lawyer.