Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed the way people travel. While these platforms provide convenience, they also come with risks. Accidents involving rideshare vehicles happen more frequently than many realize, leaving passengers, drivers, and pedestrians with injuries and financial losses.

If you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, understanding your rights and legal options is crucial. Navigating the complexities of rideshare insurance policies and liability can be challenging, which is why having an experienced attorney like Michael Hua Injury Law can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Liability in an Uber or Lyft Accident

One of the most complicated aspects of rideshare accidents is determining who is responsible. Liability in a Uber or Lyft accident depends on several factors, including the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

• If the rideshare driver was offline – When an Uber or Lyft driver is not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance applies, and the rideshare company is not liable.
• If the driver was online but had no passenger – Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage in case of an accident during this period. However, claims may still require negotiations with the driver’s personal insurance provider.
• If the driver was carrying a passenger or on the way to pick one up – Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, which can be used to compensate injured parties.

Because of these varying levels of insurance coverage, working with a lawyer who understands rideshare accident laws is essential to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Common Causes of Uber or Lyft Accidents

Accidents involving rideshare vehicles occur for many reasons, including:

• Distracted Driving – Rideshare drivers frequently check their apps for new ride requests, navigate with GPS, and communicate with passengers, which increases the risk of distraction.
• Fatigue – Many Uber and Lyft drivers work long hours, often late at night, leading to exhaustion and slower reaction times.
• Reckless Driving – To complete more rides and earn more money, some drivers speed, make sudden lane changes, or ignore traffic signals.
• Inexperienced Drivers – Rideshare companies do not require special training for drivers, leading to situations where they may not handle difficult traffic conditions well.
• Vehicle Maintenance Issues – Since rideshare drivers use their personal vehicles, some fail to properly maintain their cars, increasing the likelihood of brake failures or tire blowouts.

Regardless of the cause, if you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and other damages.

Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident

If you’re involved in a Uber or Lyft accident, following these steps can protect your legal rights and help build a strong case:

1. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you don’t feel injured, some injuries appear later. A medical report will also serve as crucial evidence.
2. Call the Police – A police report can provide an official record of the accident, which is helpful when filing an insurance claim.
3. Take Photos and Gather Evidence – Capture pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, visible injuries, and road conditions.
4. Collect Driver and Witness Information – Get the rideshare driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and Uber or Lyft trip details. If there were witnesses, get their statements and contact information.
5. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft – The rideshare company must be informed, but avoid making statements that could be used against you.
6. Contact a Rideshare Accident Lawyer – Michael Hua Injury Law specializes in rideshare accident claims and can help you navigate the legal complexities.

Why You Need Michael Hua Injury Law for Your Case

If you have been in an Uber or Lyft accident, hiring an experienced legal team can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Michael Hua Injury Law has the expertise to:

• Determine Liability – Identifying whether the rideshare driver, another driver, or the rideshare company is responsible is crucial to maximizing your compensation.
• Handle Insurance Negotiations – Uber and Lyft’s insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney will ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Maximize Your Settlement – Beyond medical bills, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical treatments.
• Provide No-Win, No-Fee Representation – You don’t pay unless you win, ensuring you get the legal help you need without financial risk.

With Michael Hua Injury Law on your side, you can focus on recovering while your legal team fights for your rights.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Victims of Uber or Lyft accidents may be eligible for various types of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses – Covers hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical treatments.
• Lost Wages – If the accident caused you to miss work, you can recover lost income.
• Pain and Suffering – Compensation for emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage – Covers repairs or replacement of damaged vehicles and belongings.
• Wrongful Death Claims – If a loved one was killed in a rideshare accident, their family may be entitled to compensation for funeral costs and loss of companionship.

Each case is unique, so consulting with a lawyer ensures you receive the maximum settlement possible.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Rights After an Uber or Lyft Accident

An Uber or Lyft accident can leave you facing medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. Since rideshare companies have complex insurance policies, recovering compensation is not always straightforward. That’s why having a dedicated lawyer like Michael Hua Injury Law on your side is essential.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t wait. Contact Michael Hua Injury Law today for a free consultation and take the first step toward getting the justice you deserve.