Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become part of daily life in Sherman Oaks, offering convenient transportation at the tap of an app. However, when an accident happens, these cases are more complicated than a typical car crash. Multiple insurance policies may apply, different coverage levels depend on whether the driver was “on the app,” and victims often struggle to determine who is responsible.
At Pilavjian Law, we help injured passengers, drivers, and pedestrians understand their rights and get the compensation they deserve after a rideshare accident.
Why Rideshare Accidents Are More Complicated
Unlike traditional car accidents, Uber and Lyft crashes involve multiple parties and layered insurance coverage. Determining which policy applies depends on whether the driver was actively working for the rideshare company at the time.
- Was the app off? Only the driver’s personal insurance applies
- Was the driver logged in but without a passenger? Limited rideshare coverage applies
- Was a passenger in the car or on the way to pick up? Full rideshare coverage applies
Understanding which coverage applies is crucial, as liability may shift between the driver, the rideshare company, or even third parties.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
While causes are similar to standard car crashes, rideshare drivers face additional distractions, including navigation apps and passenger interactions.
- Distracted driving while using phones or GPS
- Fatigue from long driving shifts
- Speeding to complete more pickups
- Unsafe lane changes due to frequent stops
- Drivers unfamiliar with local Sherman Oaks traffic patterns
Even when a rideshare driver is not at fault, victims may still have a valid claim against other negligent parties.
Who Can File a Claim After an Uber or Lyft Accident?
You may be eligible to seek compensation if you were:
- A passenger in an Uber or Lyft
- Another driver hit by a rideshare vehicle
- A pedestrian, cyclist, or scooter rider involved in the crash
- A rideshare driver injured by someone else’s negligence
Your rights do not depend on whether you were a passenger—what matters is who was negligent.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Uber and Lyft accidents often lead to serious injuries, even at moderate speeds. Victims may be eligible for compensation for:
- Medical expenses and ongoing treatment
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, emotional distress, and trauma
- Property damage, including vehicle repairs
- Long-term rehabilitation and recovery costs
Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that do not reflect full long-term needs. Once accepted, these offers cannot be undone.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
Knowing what to do immediately after an accident helps protect your health and your legal rights.
- Call 911 to report injuries or unsafe conditions
- Take screenshots of ride details and driver information
- Photograph vehicles, road conditions, and visible injuries
- Collect contact and insurance information from all parties
- Get medical evaluation even if symptoms seem minor
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurers before speaking with an attorney
These steps help preserve your claim and prevent insurers from minimizing your injuries.
Why Legal Representation Matters in Rideshare Cases
Rideshare accident claims are often denied or delayed because companies argue about coverage, app status, or driver classification. At Pilavjian Law, we sort through the insurance policies, prove liability, and negotiate aggressively for full compensation—not just what insurers want to offer.
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Sherman Oaks, do not face the insurance companies alone. Call (818) 380-3021 today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and recovery.