Guiding You Through a Lyft or Uber Collision
Glendale’s vibrant shopping and dining scene means rideshare vehicles are a common sight. They provide convenience but also add to traffic congestion and complexity. When a rideshare vehicle is involved in an accident, questions about insurance coverage and liability arise. This article explains what you should do after a rideshare crash in Glendale, how insurance coverage works and why legal assistance is often crucial to securing fair compensation.
Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, and the insurance available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. When the app is off, the driver’s personal policy applies. When the app is on and waiting for a request, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage. Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the car, a higher commercial insurance policy kicks in. Sorting out these phases is essential to determining which insurer is responsible for your losses.
Immediate Actions for Rideshare Accident Victims
If you’re involved in a rideshare crash as a passenger or third party, prioritize safety and documentation:
- Call 911: Report the crash, request medical help if needed and ensure law enforcement documents the scene.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions and injuries. Screen capture details from the rideshare app, such as driver name, license plate and ride ID.
- Seek medical evaluation: Some injuries are not immediately apparent. Prompt diagnosis links your condition to the accident and supports your claim.
- Notify the rideshare company: Report the incident through the app. Save any communication you receive in response.
Do not admit fault or make recorded statements to insurers without legal counsel. Insurance adjusters may twist your words to minimize payouts. An attorney can advise you on what to disclose and when.
Determining Liability and Pursuing Compensation
Liability in rideshare accidents may be shared among the rideshare driver, other motorists, vehicle manufacturers and even governmental entities responsible for road maintenance. California’s comparative negligence rule means that each party’s share of responsibility affects how much you can recover. For example, if the rideshare driver was speeding but another driver ran a red light, both may be held accountable. Your attorney will analyze police reports, witness statements and, if available, dash‑cam footage to build your case.
Rideshare insurance policies often include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which may apply if the at‑fault driver lacks sufficient insurance. Navigating these overlapping policies is complex. A Glendale attorney can identify all potential sources of compensation, communicate with multiple insurers and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
Conclusion: Protect Yourself After a Rideshare Incident
Being injured in a rideshare accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but taking the right steps early helps preserve your rights. Focus on safety, gather evidence, and enlist the support of a seasoned legal professional. To discuss your case and explore your options, contact car accident attorney in Glendale. With knowledgeable guidance, you can navigate the claims process, contend with corporate insurers and pursue the compensation you deserve.
