Injured in an Uber Accident in Los Angeles?
You’re not alone. As rideshare use increases, so do crashes involving Uber and Lyft vehicles. From Downtown LA to the Westside, thousands of rideshare passengers and drivers are affected by collisions every year. Knowing your rights, what coverage applies, and how to build a claim can make a critical difference in your recovery.
Rideshare Accidents Are On the Rise in LA
According to the California Public Utilities Commission, Uber and Lyft provide millions of rides annually in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, many of these rides end in accidents caused by distracted driving, speeding, or negligent third-party drivers. A study by the University of Chicago and Rice University found that rideshare services have contributed to a 2-3% increase in traffic fatalities since 2011. This means more victims — and more legal questions.
Who’s Covered in an Uber Accident?
One of the most complex parts of an Uber crash is understanding the insurance coverage. California law requires Uber to provide commercial insurance coverage when the app is on. Here’s how it breaks down:
- App off: Uber provides no coverage — driver’s personal insurance applies.
- App on, no passenger: Uber provides up to $50,000 per person / $100,000 per incident for injuries and $25,000 for property damage.
- En route to pick up or with passenger: Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Who Can File a Claim After an Uber Accident?
- Uber Passengers: You’re covered under Uber’s $1M policy if your driver is at fault or another car hits your Uber.
- Uber Drivers: If you’re on the app, you may qualify for coverage depending on ride status.
- Third Parties: Pedestrians, cyclists, or drivers hit by an Uber vehicle can file claims against Uber’s insurance or the driver’s personal policy.
Real Case: $500K Uber Settlement in Westwood
In 2022, a woman in Westwood was injured when her Uber was rear-ended by a drunk driver. Her spinal injuries required surgery and long-term rehab. Uber’s uninsured motorist coverage kicked in when the at-fault driver’s policy only offered $15K. With the help of a personal injury lawyer, she secured a $500,000 settlement that covered medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What to Do Immediately After the Crash
- Get Medical Help: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out. Documentation is key.
- Call the Police: A police report helps prove liability and may uncover other issues (e.g., intoxication).
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of all vehicles, injuries, the location, and any witnesses.
- Get Contact Info: For your driver, the other driver(s), and any witnesses.
- Report the Crash to Uber: Use the app or the online form.
- Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer: Don’t deal with insurance alone.
How ANTN Law Can Help After an Uber Crash
Injured in an Uber Accident in Los Angeles? ANTN Law and attorney Arpine Navasardyan have represented countless victims of rideshare crashes across Los Angeles. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, or pedestrian, her team will fight for full and fair compensation. They navigate complex insurance policies, gather evidence, and negotiate with aggressive insurance adjusters.
Schedule your free consultation here — and let ANTN Law help you recover.
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FAQs About Uber Accident Claims in Los Angeles
- How long do I have to file an Uber accident claim in California? Two years from the date of the crash.
- What if the Uber driver was at fault? Uber’s insurance covers your injuries if the driver was active on the app.
- Can I sue Uber directly? Not usually — Uber classifies drivers as independent contractors. But you can access their insurance policy.
- What happens if the other driver was at fault? Uber may still cover your damages through uninsured motorist coverage.
- Does Uber’s insurance cover hit-and-runs? Yes, under the uninsured motorist portion of their policy.
- Can I get compensation for missed work? Yes. Lost wages are part of economic damages you can recover.
- What if I’m partially at fault? You may still recover damages under California’s comparative fault rule.
- What should I avoid doing? Don’t talk to Uber’s insurance adjuster without legal advice.
- Is the process different if I was a pedestrian? You can still file a claim against Uber’s coverage if their driver was at fault.
- What does a rideshare attorney cost? ANTN Law works on a contingency fee — you pay nothing unless you win.
- What if Uber denies my claim? Your attorney can appeal and take the case to court if needed.
- Can I recover for pain and suffering? Yes — emotional trauma is part of your non-economic damages.
- How long does the claim process take? It varies — typically 3 months to 1 year depending on severity and complexity.
- Do I need a lawyer even if I have Uber’s insurance? Yes. Insurance adjusters work to minimize payouts.
- Where can I get help now? Contact ANTN Law for a free case review.
