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Bojat Law Group

Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney Los Angeles

According to 2023 figures, the Uber platform is used by 149 million consumers and 3.5 million drivers who serve this growing user base, out of which 1.5 million drivers are in the US alone. Uber produced $37.2 billion in revenue in 2023, a 16% increase over the previous year, with an average of 28 million journeys per day.

Based on the Uber US safety study, there were 59 Uber-related fatalities in 2019, while in 2020 that number decreased to 42. 

Keeping this data in mind, it is evident that the problem of accidents caused by Uber driving is becoming more relevant.

Injured in an Accident While Riding in an Uber or Lyft?

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If you’ve been involved in an Uber and Lyft accident, you may be wondering who is responsible and how you can get the compensation you deserve. Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident lawyers from Bojat Law Group specialize in navigating these complex scenarios and will fight to protect your rights. Call Bojat Law Group at (818) 877-4878 to get your free case evaluation.

In cases that reached settlement or verdict between 2018–2024, our law firm obtained compensation for the vast majority of clients. If you are represented by Bojat Law Group, you will win. With over 24 years of combined experience, our clients can rest assured they are getting the best representation for their case.

This article outlines your legal options and the strategic advantages that specialized legal assistance can provide in the pursuit of just compensation.

Client Testimonials

bojat-law-group-testimonials“Bojat Law Group truly cares for their clients and their well-being.  They are caring, communicative, effective, efficient, and knowledgeable.  I appreciated all they have done to help and being there every step of the way during such a tumultuous and uncertain time. I very highly recommend Sasha and the Team.” – Kevin Jackson

bojat-law-group-testimonials“Sasha was wonderful to work with. He handled my case with care and made sure that not only did I receive all of the medical treatment I needed for my injury, but that I was also compensated appropriately for my pain and suffering. Highly recommend Bojat Law Group!” – Amanda Bragg

bojat-law-group-testimonials“After a bad crash left me with a spine injury, Sasha took care of me right away. He immediately got me great treatment and went above and beyond to get me a life changing settlement. If you have been injured in an accident, don’t wait. Call Bojat Law Group.” – Skyler Adams

Read our google reviews here.

Case Results

Bojat Law Group has recovered over $1 million in verdicts and settlements for personal injury victims.

$527K

Car Accidents

$291K

Truck Accidents

$182K

Motorcycle Accidents

Bojat Law Group - Attorneys Who Help Uber Accidents Victims

Los Angeles County, which has a population of over 9.7 million people and a vast highway network extending over 515 miles of freeways and expressways, presents a unique challenge for Uber passengers and drivers alike. The high population density, together with the surge of tourists that pour into Los Angeles County every year increases the risk of motor vehicle accidents, including those involving rideshare services.

If you are ever involved in an Uber accident, the busting nature of Los Angeles County can only amplify the difficulty of the whole situation. This is why it is crucial to have the expertise of an experienced Uber accident lawyer. These legal professionals are the people you need in your corner while navigating the aftermath of a rideshare collision in a busy metropolis such as Los Angeles.

Immaculate record, Bojat Law Group attorneys have won all cases. Bojat Law Group is your ticket to victory. Our clients know they’re getting the best representation with over 24 years of combined experience.

Steps to Take When You're Involved in an Uber Accident

If you are ever involved in an Uber accident in Los Angeles, it is crucial that you take the appropriate steps to protect your legal rights: These are the steps you should follow:

  1. Call 9-1-1.
  2. Seek medical attention for any injuries you are experiencing.
  3. Report the facts of the accident to the police.
  4. Gather all relevant evidence. Take photos and videos of the accident scene, take photos and videos of the vehicles involved in the accident, and take photos and videos of any injuries.
  5. Collect contact information from any witnesses.
  6. Exchange insurance information with other parties unless the police ask you not to do so.

By following these crucial steps, you will be better equipped to protect your legal rights once your case begins.

Contacting an Uber Accident Attorney: When and Why

As stated above, the number one priority after an Uber accident is to seek medical treatment. However, contacting an Uber accident attorney should be the next priority. Doing this will ensure the adequate protection of your legal rights, as time is of the essence and further steps must be taken properly and timely. A rideshare accident lawyer will take the appropriate steps to protect your rights.

By reaching out to us for a free consultation, you will gain an understanding of how the entire process works and what your options are for securing the proper compensation for your injuries as well as property damage.

Who is Responsible for Paying Your Bills After a Ridesharing Accident?

Figuring out the responsibilities for paying expenses after a ridesharing accident relies on numerous variables of the crash, insurance policy protection along with suitable regulations. Here are some basic standards: Three parties may be held responsible for paying your medical bills after a ridesharing accident: the ridesharing company, the rideshare driver, and other drivers involved in the accident. It all depends on what state the accident occurred and who is liable for the crash.

In California,

(1)   The rideshare company is responsible for paying your bills if the rideshare driver caused the accident and was online when the accident occurred.

(2)   The rideshare driver is responsible for paying your bills if the rideshare driver caused the accident and was offline when the accident occurred.

(3)   The other driver(s) involved in the accident is responsible for paying your bills if the other driver(s) caused the accident. However, the underinsured or uninsured motorist policy may apply if that driver is not insured or if their insurance is not big enough to cover your medical bills.

Dealing with Insurance After an Uber Accident

Uber insurance coverage plays an important role following an Uber accident. As the coverage that applies depends on the Uber driver’s status at the time of the accident, it is crucial to get in touch with your Uber accident attorney in Los Angeles right away. For instance, insurance coverage provided differs depending on whether the Uber driver was offline, picking up passengers, or driving with passengers in the vehicle. If the Uber driver was offline at the time of the accident, then their personal auto insurance would be the primary source of coverage.

On the other hand, if the ride has been accepted or if the passengers were present in the Uber vehicle at the time of the accident, Uber provides $1 million in bodily injury coverage for the accident for 3rd parties. The same $1 million bodily injury coverage applies to uninsured or underinsured motorists. This requirement was influenced by California law, requiring all rideshare companies to provide adequate protection for their passengers, drivers, and all other parties on the road that may be affected by a ride-share motor vehicle accident.

Understanding these details is crucial for filing a personal injury claim in Los Angeles, and an insightful rideshare accident attorney from Bojat Law Group is instrumental in navigating these waters and dealing with insurance adjusters to secure fair financial compensation for medical expenses and other damages. Call us today at (818) 877-4878 to get your personal injury case valued for free.

Accidents Involving Autonomous Uber Vehicles

Autonomous Uber cases turn on coverage and records. The ride can run under an automated driving system, sometimes with a safety driver present, and insurers look closely at trip status and system documentation.

California requires autonomous technology manufacturers approved for public road operation to maintain proof of financial responsibility in the amount of $5,000,000, satisfied through insurance, a surety bond, or approved self insurance. In a crash where the automated system played a role, that requirement can matter when the responsible autonomous entity is identified and the vehicle was operating under that system.

These claims usually require trip status confirmation plus vehicle system records, including logs showing system engagement and control at the time of impact. That paper trail often drives coverage decisions and claim value.

Are Uber and Lyft Drivers Certified or Trained?

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Although the drivers for Uber and Lyft do not possess any special licenses, they pass background checks and comply with the company’s rules on security and vehicle requirements. They don’t participate in formal training programs, although they do receive safety and security information. These protocols help ensure both guest security and superior services.

Common Causes of Uber Accidents and Driver Responsibilities

Uber accidents and Lyft accidents, like any motor vehicle accidents, can be caused by numerous factors. In the busy city of Los Angeles, police and accident victims report several contributing factors such as:

  • Driver fatigue from long hours on the road
  • Speeding to maximize earnings
  • Distractions both inside and outside the vehicle
  • Unfamiliarity with LA’s intricate roadways

All of these and multiple other factors can lead to unpredictable driving behavior, increasing the risk of accidents.

What Happens When an Uber Driver Hits a Pedestrian?

The busy streets of Los Angeles are not just a canvas for vehicles but a thoroughfare for pedestrians as well. When an unfortunate incident occurs where an Uber driver hits a pedestrian, the aftermath can be devastating. As a pedestrian, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately to address any injuries and document their extent.

Legal representation becomes a critical factor in such scenarios, as an experienced rideshare accident attorney can offer the necessary support and guidance through the legal maze.

The expertise of a rideshare accident attorney is particularly vital given the challenges and potential settlements in pedestrian injury cases against a rideshare company for drivers who are not employees but independent contractors. These intricacies have special caveats that only experienced rideshare pedestrian accident attorneys can navigate. Therefore, it is crucial to contact a rideshare accident lawyer right after a pedestrian Uber accident so that all appropriate steps are taken. 

Need help after a crash? Call Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Sasha Bojat for expert guidance and unwavering support

What Are the Requirements for Driving for a Rideshare Company?

In California, you must meet certain requirements in order to drive for a ridesharing company:

1. Age: You must be at least 21 years old.
2. License: You must possess a valid driver’s license.
3. Car: You must have a 4-door car that qualifies.
4. Experience: You must have driven a vehicle in the US for at least a year (three years if you are under 25).

Three Uber Rideshare Periods

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An Uber driver’s insurance company coverage varies depending on their status, whether they are offline or in Periods 1, 2, or 3.

Offline

An offline period occurs when the Uber driver is not even logged into the Uber app.

Period 1

Period 1 starts from the moment an Uber driver has the app open but still hasn’t accepted the ride.

Period 2

Period 2 starts from the moment an Uber driver accepts the ride but has not picked up a passenger yet.

Period 3

Period 3 starts from the moment an Uber driver picks up a passenger all the way until the ride ends.

What Are the Insurance Policy Limits if I'm Involved in an Uber Accident?

Offline Insurance Policy Limits

If an Uber driver is completely offline and not even logged into an up but gets into an accident, then the accident would only be covered by the Uber driver’s personal or commercial auto insurance.

Period 1 Insurance Policy Limits

If an Uber driver is in Period 1, meaning only the ride has been accepted, then the following insurance policy limits would apply for the accident:

  1. $50,000 of bodily injury coverage per person involved in the accident.
  2. $100,000 of bodily injury coverage for the entire accident, meaning for all parties involved in the accident.
  3. $30,000 of property damage coverage, which is usually applied for vehicle repairs.

Period 2 and 3 Insurance Policy Limits

If an Uber driver is in Period 2 or 3, the same insurance policy limits apply. They are:

  1. $1,000,000 of bodily injury coverage for the accident for 3rd parties, meaning parties not at fault.
  2. $1,000,000 of bodily injury coverage for the uninsured or underinsured motorists.

The Impact of California Law on Rideshare Accidents

California laws, especially Assembly Bill 5, have a big impact on how rideshare accidents happen and who is liable for them. Because of this legislation, Uber and Lyft drivers are now considered employees rather than independent contractors, which has an impact on how liability is assessed. The legal issues inherent in the rideshare market have been highlighted by the large investments made by rideshare companies in response to activities aimed at exempting its drivers from the obligations of this law.

It is important that anyone involved in a rideshare accident should be aware of how California law influences these incidents since it influences the legal process and possible consequences.

How Can an Uber Accident Attorney Help Me?

When you’re in a rideshare accident, many potentially liable parties are involved, including rideshare drivers, the rideshare company, and more. For that reason, if you’ve been in a rideshare accident, you’ll want an experienced rideshare accident attorney on your side. An accident involving a rideshare vehicle and a rideshare driver presents a unique set of circumstances. It’s not the same as an accident with a regular passenger vehicle, but also a bit different from a traditional commercial vehicle accident.

Can I Sue Uber for an Accident?

The short answer is yes, you have the right to file a lawsuit against Uber if you receive injuries in an accident. Nevertheless, the details of your case will dictate whether you should pursue legal action against the company directly or against the individual Uber driver. 

Call your Los Angeles Uber and Lyft accident lawyer to help you through this complex process at (818) 877-4878.

Why Should I Hire an Uber Accident Lawyer After My Accident?

The answer lies in the intricate complexity of the commercial insurance policies held by both Uber and Lyft.

Unlike ordinary traffic accidents, Uber uses complicated commercial insurance policies. Their system is deliberately complex – with varying levels of coverage and numerous clauses. The insurance companies behind these policies are huge corporations with experienced legal teams. Their job is to find every possible way to reduce the amount they will pay you.

Without a lawyer, you will likely receive only a fraction of the compensation to which you are entitled. Why? Because the average person simply cannot cope with a system designed to minimize payoffs. Insurance companies will quickly offer you a sum that sounds attractive – but it is often far below the actual value of your case.

Bojat Law Group knows all the tactics these companies use. We know how to access every level of their policies and how to document your case so that you get the maximum possible compensation.

What Type of Compensation Can I Receive Following an Accident with an Uber or Lyft Driver?

In California, the victims of rideshare accidents have a right to claim damages for their injuries and accident-related costs. In such instances where the defendant’s negligence is extreme or reckless, the court may also give punitive damages but this happens in rare cases.

There are two main types of damages:

Economic Damages: These are measurable expenses resulting from the accident, including medical bills, property damage, lost income, and loss of earning capacity.

Non-economic Damages: These damages are more subjective and harder to measure. They include pain and suffering, emotional distress, disability-related losses, permanent disfigurement, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life. California does not place a maximum on compensation for personal injury victims. A jury can award a victim an amount they think is just after hearing evidence during the trial and estimating losses incurred by the plaintiff.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Rideshare Accident Attorney?

At Bojat Law Group, a personal injury law firm from Los Angeles, we operate on a contingency basis. This means we won’t charge you any fees until we secure a settlement or verdict for your Uber or Lyft accident claim. If we’re unable to successfully resolve your personal injury claim, you won’t owe us any fees. Plus, the initial consultation is always free of charge.

How Is Liability Determined in an Uber Accident?

Liability in a ridesharing accident is established by verifying: (1) If the rideshare driver was at fault for the accident, (2) if the rideshare driver was actively utilizing the same ridesharing services or app during the accident (3) if other parties were involved in or played a role in causing the accident occurred.

Liability for Uber and Lyft accidents is similar, if not the same, as any other motor vehicle accident. In other words, whoever causes the accident will be held liable. The difference between Uber and Lyft accidents is that Uber and Lyft insurance companies will pay for damages if the Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident during the course and scope of their work. If the accident was not caused during the course and scope of work, then Uber or Lyft driver’s personal insurance will step in and cover the damages, in which case this becomes an ordinary motor vehicle accident claim. Let’s dive deeper into the potential factors that could be the reason for liability:

(1)   Uber driver’s negligence: If the Uber driver’s negligence or actions contributed to the accident, they could be held liable. This may include situations where the driver was speeding, running a red light, or driving recklessly.

(2)   Other drivers: Liability may also fall on other drivers involved in the accident if their actions, such as running a stop sign or driving while intoxicated, were a contributing factor.

(3)   Uber: Uber itself may share liability if it’s determined that their driver was unfit to drive (e.g., lacked proper insurance or was not properly screened). Also, if the Uber vehicle defects played a role in the accident, the manufacturer or maintenance provider could be liable.

(4)   Road Conditions: If the accident occurred due to poor road conditions or inadequate signage, the entity responsible for road maintenance or design may be held liable, as well as potentially the city, county, or state in which the accident occurred.

(5) Autonomous Vehicle Parties (Self Driving Uber): If your Uber ride involved a self driving vehicle, liability may not stop with the person sitting behind the wheel. In many self driving Uber crashes, there may be a backup driver who is supposed to take over when the system cannot handle a situation. If that driver failed to step in, they may be held liable.
Self driving Ubers use cameras, sensors, and onboard systems to make driving decisions in real time. If the crash happened because that system made the wrong call or did not react the way it should have, liability may point to the company responsible for the self driving technology.

Our Featured Case Results

Bojat Law Group has almost 25 years of combined experience. During that time, we have handled countless Uber accident cases. According to our own law firm numbers, these are the settlement values from our previous clients:

Average Uber accident settlement: $350,899.12

Average Lyft accident settlement: $310,256.57

These numbers are based on real cases handled by Bojat Law Group. The average Uber accident settlements and average Lyft accident settlements should not be interpreted as any promise or warranty on any particular case but as mere average values of cases handled by Bojat Law Group. These numbers may vary based on the particulars of your unique case. Every case is very different from another.

Insurance Company Requirements for Rideshare Services

In California, Uber and Lyft drivers are mandated to possess rideshare insurance as soon as they activate the respective company’s rideshare app. 

The specific phase you’re in as an Uber or Lyft driver dictates the necessary auto insurance requirements. When the rideshare app is inactive, your personal insurance policy is technically in effect. 

To operate legally, this policy must meet California’s minimum auto insurance standards:

  • $30,000 of bodily injury coverage per individual injured in an accident
  • $60,000 of bodily injury coverage total per accident 
  • $15,000 of property damage coverage per accident

If the rideshare app is active but you haven’t yet been matched with a passenger, you’re required to have rideshare insurance providing:

  • $50,000 of bodily injury liability coverage per person injured in an accident
  • $100,000 of bodily injury liability coverage total per accident
  • $30,000 of property damage liability coverage per accident

Call Experienced Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney at Bojat Law Group Today for Free Consultation

In some instances, Uber and Lyft will hire unqualified drivers or refuse to suspend drivers even after passengers have complained about their driving. If this is the case, it’s best to speak with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer at Bojat Law Group to learn about your legal options. Sometimes in ridesharing accidents, the driver(s) other than the rideshare driver, may be responsible for the accident. For instance, your Uber driver was driving through a traffic light and was t-boned by another driver who ran the red light. In a case like this, you can still collect compensation through an Uber or Lyft insurance policy if such is warranted, with the help of an experienced t-bone accident attorney capable of navigating choppy legal waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What should I do first after being involved in an Uber accident in Los Angeles?

After being involved in an Uber accident in Los Angeles, your first step should be to seek medical attention for any injuries. Then, collect evidence, exchange information, report the incident to Uber, contact law enforcement, and consider consulting with an experienced Uber accident lawyer for legal guidance.

How does California Assembly Bill 5 affect Uber accident cases?

No. While AB5 changed worker classification rules in California, Uber and Lyft drivers are generally treated as independent contractors under Proposition 22. In accident cases, liability does not turn on employee status. What matters is who caused the crash and whether the driver was logged into the app or transporting a passenger, because that determines which insurance coverage applies.

What if I was partly at fault for the Uber accident?

In California, even if you were partly at fault for the Uber accident, you may still be entitled to compensation under the pure comparative negligence system. However, the awarded compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault in the accident.

How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim?

In California, the time limit to submit your personal injury legal action is 2 years after the rideshare accident. This is known as statute of limitations.

Will I lose access to my Uber or Lyft services if I file a claim in Los Angeles County?

If you file a personal injury claim under Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance policy, you won’t face any consequence like suspension or being banned from utilizing their services. Both Uber and Lyft are obligated to remit a specific portion of each fare directly to their insurance providers to handle accident coverage. Both Uber and Lyft have to give some money from each ride to their insurance companies. This money is used to pay for accidents if they happen.

Can an Uber accident attorney help me if I'm a pedestrian hit by an Uber driver?

Yes, an Uber accident attorney can assist you in seeking compensation for your injuries and damages as a pedestrian hit by an Uber driver.

Are there any upfront fees for hiring an Uber accident lawyer?

No, most Uber accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no upfront fees; you only pay if they secure compensation for you.

Get a Free Consultation Today!

“Sasha was absolutely amazing!! Very attentive, very communicative, and would always handle each interaction with white gloves. He worked with the very best to make sure I was taken care of and recovered accordingly. At the end of the day, he exceeded my expectations by a large margin. Thank you, Sasha!!”

Andrew Schmidt

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“Bojat Law Group is a group that actually cares about its clients. They helped me with a case I would have lost if I had gone to anyone else. They provided a life changing experience and I will never go to a different law group in regards to personal injury.

They transparent this law group is one of a kind and I couldn’t be more grateful to have found them.”

Dylan Short

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“Sasha was wonderful handling my case. Explained everything in detail where we could understand the process. My case was handled smoothly and efficiently. His eased all our worries when it came to getting compensation for my case. Very accommodating! Would recommend him to anyone.”

Bethany Braun

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Main Office

Westlake Village Office

2829 Townsgate Road, Ste. 100

Westlake Village, CA 91361

Why Hire Bojat Law Group as Your Los Angeles Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer?

With more than 1000 successfully resolved traffic accident cases in Los Angeles, Bojat Law Group stands out for its unique approach to each client. We know that you need reliable legal support after an accident.
Here are the reasons why clients come to us after car accidents:

Personal Approach

From day one, you work directly with the Bojat Law Group lawyer in charge of your case. We do not pass clients through various assistants – you get a permanent, dedicated lawyer.

A Team of Experts

Our team of attorneys has many years of experience representing clients before the California courts. The combination of our detailed knowledge of the local legal system and our dedication to each case allows us to achieve the best results for our Los Angeles clients.

Available 24/7

We know that accidents don’t choose the time – that’s why we’re always here for you. While you focus on your recovery, we take care of your case and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. At Bojat Law Group, your lawyer is just one call away.

Get a Free Consultation

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Westlake Village

2829 Townsgate Road, Ste. 100, Westlake Village, 91361, CA

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21550 Oxnard St, 3rd Fl., Woodland Hills, 91367, CA