Since the rise of ridesharing in 2011, the U.S. has seen a staggering 2% to 3% spike in traffic deaths, making it crucial to know your rights after an Uber or Lyft accident. If you were wrongfully injured in a rideshare accident in San Francisco, put over 70 years of experience on your side by partnering with The Cartwright Law Firm.
Since 1950, our rideshare accident attorneys have forged a winning track record of results and a reputation for holding rideshare companies accountable in Northern California. Our firm is committed to pursuing the justice and compensation you need to get back on your feet after a wrongful injury. As accomplished litigators, we never hesitate to take cases to trial if necessary to achieve a fair outcome.
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft in San Francisco, our attorneys can aggressively pursue justice. Contact us online to request a free case evaluation with our rideshare accident lawyer in San Francisco.
Like any car accident, rideshare accidents can result in serious harm to rideshare employees, passengers, and third-party motorists. Common injuries resulting from Uber and Lyft accidents include:
Rideshare accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. Common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents include:
From reviewing Uber and Lyft insurance policies to identifying negligent parties, determining liability in a rideshare accident is notoriously complex. Working with a skilled rideshare accident lawyer in San Francisco is crucial to pursuing a favorable outcome, especially in cases involving multiple liable parties. Some potentially liable parties include:
If the rideshare employee caused the accident by acting negligently (such as speeding or violating traffic laws), they may be liable for damages.
Uber or Lyft may be liable if the company’s negligence contributed to the accident, such as failing to properly screen their drivers or enforce safety protocols.
If a negligent third-party motorist caused the rideshare accident, they may be liable for injuries. Victims can typically seek compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance policy.
If the rideshare accident was caused by a faulty part or mechanical defect, the vehicle manufacturer may be responsible for damages.
Yes, rideshare companies are required to carry insurance. Both Uber and Lyft carry up to $1 million in liability insurance, but this coverage only applies when the driver is actively using the app to pick up or drop off passengers. While many assume that the rideshare company is automatically liable for accidents that occur while using the app, this isn’t always the case. This is largely because rideshare employees are classified as independent contractors, meaning they are required to carry personal auto insurance.
In California, ridesharing services are classified as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). These companies provide prearranged transportation for purchase using apps or online platforms to effortlessly connect drivers with passengers.
TNCs are subject to certain restrictions under state law, including minimum insurance requirements under Cal. Assembly Bill No. 2293. Uber and Lyft are required to carry at least $1 million in liability coverage per accident, as well as $1 million in uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance coverage.
Determining which type of insurance coverage applies in a rideshare accident depends on the driving period. These include:
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft, our rideshare accident attorneys can help you determine which insurance policy applies and pursue the compensation you deserve.
An unexpected collision can leave victims in pain and unsure of where to turn. Knowing your rights after a rideshare accident is imperative to recovering compensation for your injuries. Some important steps to take after an Uber or Lyft accident include:
Various damages may be recoverable in a rideshare accident claim, including:
Economic damages compensate the victim for direct financial losses, such as medical bills, prescription medication costs, current and future treatments, physical therapy, rehabilitative care, vehicular damage, lost wages, and lost earning capacity.
Non-economic damages compensate the victim for indirect, non-financial losses. Common examples include emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium, and permanent scarring and disfigurement.
Yes, courts may award punitive damages if the rideshare accident involves extreme negligence. Partnering with a knowledgeable rideshare accident lawyer is paramount to accurately calculating damages and pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve.
Rideshare accidents introduce several unique challenges not typically present in standard vehicular accidents. One primary issue is the complexity of determining which insurance policy applies at any given moment during an accident, as coverage can change based on whether the app is on or off and if a ride is in progress. Additionally, categorizing drivers as independent contractors rather than employees can complicate liability claims against rideshare companies. Furthermore, these accidents often involve intricate state and federal regulations affecting Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), requiring a knowledgeable legal approach. In San Francisco, the city’s dense traffic conditions and intricate road networks further contribute to the risk and complexity of rideshare incidents. Clients facing such dilemmas benefit from seasoned legal representation that understands the multifaceted nature of these accidents, ensuring that no detail is overlooked when seeking justice and compensation for the injuries sustained.
Staying safe during a rideshare trip involves both proactive and situational awareness. Before entering the vehicle, passengers should verify the car’s license plate, driver photo, and information on the app to ensure they are getting into the correct rideshare. Sharing trip details with a friend or family member is advisable for added security. While inside the vehicle, passengers should always wear seatbelts and remain alert to the driver’s behavior. If unsafe driving practices, such as speeding or texting, are observed, passengers should feel empowered to speak up or end the ride if necessary. Additionally, sitting in the back seat can provide an extra layer of safety and allow for a more comfortable interaction distance with the driver. Riding with a trustworthy companion is also a good practice, offering additional reassurance. By taking these steps, passengers can significantly enhance their rideshare safety.
When insurance providers refuse to cover damages from a rideshare accident, seeking professional legal advice is essential. Insurance disputes involve complex negotiations, and understanding the fine print of rideshare insurance can be daunting without legal expertise. Reviewing the reason for the denial is crucial as it might indicate missing documentation or a misunderstanding of the policy terms. At The Cartwright Law Firm, our attorneys are adept at interpreting insurance policies and can negotiate with insurers to reevaluate the claim. Pursuing mediation or a legal claim might be necessary to secure rightful compensation if the situation escalates. Keeping meticulous records of all interactions, medical evaluations, repair estimates, and every related document strengthens your position. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure victims are not left bearing the financial burdens of an accident caused by someone else. Our team advocates for clients’ rights to achieve just outcomes.
When you partner with The Cartwright Law Firm, you’ll benefit from: