Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in San Francisco and throughout California. However, when accidents involving these vehicles occur, the legal landscape becomes significantly more complex than a typical auto accident and involves well-funded corporations and insurance companies.

A central challenge in rideshare accident cases is determining which insurance policy, if any, applies. Coverage depends on the rideshare driver's status at the time of the crash: whether they were logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger. Each status triggers different insurance coverage levels and different potentially responsible parties.

The insurance coverage Uber and Lyft are required to maintain is constantly changing from legislative proceedings, but accessing these policies requires navigating complex insurance frameworks. The rideshare company, the driver's personal insurance company, and the rideshare company's commercial insurer may all be involved, each potentially trying to avoid responsibility.

The Brandi Law Firm helps injured passengers, drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists involved in rideshare accidents navigate these complexities. Whether you were a passenger in the Uber or Lyft, struck by a rideshare vehicle, we can help you understand your options and pursue maximum compensation.

California was the first state to create a regulatory framework for rideshare companies (known as Transportation Network Companies or TNCs). The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) requires TNCs to maintain insurance coverage, the amount of which is constantly changing from legislative proceedings, and coverage depends on the driver's status at the time of the accident.

California's statute of limitations for rideshare accident claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, the complex insurance landscape means that prompt action is important to identify and preserve all potential sources of recovery.