Sacramento Rideshare Accidents Attorneys

Experienced legal guidance for Uber or Lyft injuries in California

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a routine part of daily life in California and throughout the United States. While convenient, these services also increase traffic congestion and the risk of collisions on busy roads, such as Interstate 5, Highway 50 and city streets throughout downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. When a rideshare accident occurs, issues relating to liability and insurance coverage might be more complex than in standard car crash claims. Our Sacramento rideshare accident attorneys help injured victims navigate these challenges and collect appropriate compensation from the at-fault parties.

How rideshare accidents happen on Sacramento roads

Rideshare accidents occur for many of the same reasons as other motor vehicle collisions, but certain elements of this service create an enhanced risk. Distracted driving is common, as drivers rely heavily on smartphone apps for navigation, ride requests and passenger communication. Frequent stops, sudden lane changes and unfamiliarity with neighborhoods can also contribute to crashes.

Fatigue is a factor when drivers work long hours or late at night to maximize earnings. In high-traffic areas such as Midtown, East Sacramento and near Sacramento International Airport, aggressive driving behaviors increase the likelihood of rear-end collisions, intersection crashes and pedestrian accidents. In some cases, other negligent motorists are responsible for the collision.

Insurance coverage phases in Uber and Lyft accident claims

Uber and Lyft provide varying levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s “app status” at the time of the crash. When the driver is offline, only the driver’s personal auto insurance policy applies. When the app is on and the driver is waiting for a ride request, limited contingent liability coverage from the rideshare company can apply, if the driver’s policy does not fully cover damages. Once a driver accepts a ride or a passenger is in the vehicle, the company’s commercial insurance policy applies.

Who can be held liable in a Sacramento rideshare collision

Liability in a rideshare accident depends on specific facts. The rideshare driver might be responsible if their negligence—such as speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield—caused the crash. In some situations, another driver may be partially or entirely at fault.

Although Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, the companies’ insurance policies can still provide compensation when drivers are actively engaged in rideshare activities. In certain cases, additional parties may share liability, such as vehicle manufacturers (if a defect contributed to the crash) or government entities responsible for unsafe road conditions.

A thorough investigation is essential to determine fault, gather evidence and identify all potentially liable parties.

Injuries commonly sustained in rideshare crashes

Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries affecting drivers, passengers, pedestrians and occupants of other vehicles. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Head trauma
• Spinal cord injuries
• Soft tissue damage

Passengers in the back of a rideshare vehicle may be particularly vulnerable if they are not wearing seat belts.

More severe crashes can lead to traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding or permanent disabilities requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation. 

Compensation available for rideshare accident victims in California

Victims of rideshare accidents in California may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages can include reimbursement for medical bills, future healthcare expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity and property damage. Non-economic damages may compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life.

In rare cases involving particularly reckless or egregious conduct, punitive damages may also be available. Our Sacramento car accident lawyers are determined to maximize the value of your claim by presenting a cogent and complete presentation of your case.

Contact a California rideshare accident attorney for a free consultation

Mastagni Holstedt, APC represents clients injured in rideshare accidents throughout California. To schedule a free consultation, call or contact us online. We are located in Sacramento, Rancho Cucamonga, Pleasanton and Redwood City.