Who Pays After an Uber or Lyft Accident? Breaking Down California Rideshare Insurance

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When it comes to rideshare accidents, one of the most confusing parts is figuring out who pays for your injuries and damages. Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, which creates unique challenges when filing a claim.

California Rideshare Insurance Coverage

Rideshare accidents fall into three main insurance coverage periods:

  1. App Off (Driver Not Available)
    • Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. Uber/Lyft’s policy doesn’t cover anything during this time.
  2. App On (Driver Waiting for a Ride Request)
    • Contingent liability coverage from Uber/Lyft applies:
      • $50,000 per person for bodily injury
      • $100,000 per accident total
      • $25,000 for property damage
  3. Active Ride (Passenger Accepted or in Car)
    • Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if another driver is at fault and lacks insurance.

Multiple Parties Could Be Liable

Unlike standard car accidents, several parties may share liability in a rideshare crash:

  • The Uber/Lyft driver
  • Another negligent driver
  • The rideshare company’s insurer
  • Vehicle manufacturers or maintenance companies (if mechanical failure was involved)

Why Insurance Companies Deny Claims

Even with these policies in place, many accident victims face delayed or denied claims. Insurance adjusters often argue over who was responsible, leaving victims stuck with medical bills. Without legal help, you may receive far less than you deserve.

How an Attorney Helps

An experienced rideshare accident lawyer can:

  • Investigate the driver’s status at the time of the crash
  • Prove negligence through police reports, app data, and witness statements
  • Negotiate aggressively with insurers to maximize your payout
  • File a lawsuit if necessary to secure fair compensation

👉 Don’t assume Uber or Lyft will pay right away. Their insurers often fight hard to avoid liability. Having a lawyer on your side ensures you won’t be left with the financial burden of someone else’s negligence.

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