A rideshare accident in San Diego refers to any collision involving an Uber, Lyft, or similar app-based driver regardless of whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, or another motorist. These accidents are becoming increasingly common and can lead to complicated insurance battles, especially when liability is unclear. Unlike traditional car crashes, rideshare injury claims involve corporate policies, third-party insurers, and California’s gig worker laws.
This article explains how California rideshare claims work, who is liable, what insurance coverage applies, and how injured parties can pursue fair compensation. It also covers Proposition 22 and the legal strategies needed to navigate these complex cases.
Legal Facts You Should Know After a Rideshare Crash
- Yes, you can seek compensation even if you’re not the rideshare passenger
- Uber and Lyft provide up to $1M in insurance, depending on app status
- California law limits your time to file a claim (2 years)
- Corporate insurers often deny or delay claims without legal pressure
- Legal counsel helps identify liable parties and negotiate higher settlements
What Qualifies as a Rideshare Accident in San Diego?
Who is considered a rideshare accident victim?
Any incident involving an active Uber or Lyft driver qualifies. This includes passengers injured during a ride, pedestrians hit by a rideshare vehicle, or other drivers struck while the app is in use. Whether the driver was accepting a ride, en route to pick up, or carrying a passenger impacts the coverage.
Who can file a rideshare injury claim?
Eligible claimants include:
- Rideshare passengers
- Drivers of other vehicles involved in the crash
- Cyclists or pedestrians hit by a rideshare car
You don’t need to be in the Uber or Lyft vehicle to pursue a claim.
Insurance Coverage by Uber and Lyft Explained
When does the company’s insurance apply?
Coverage depends on the driver’s app status:
- App off: Driver’s personal insurance applies
- App on, no ride accepted: Contingent policy applies ($50K/$100K/$25K)
- Ride accepted or in progress: $1M liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
These policies are underwritten by providers like James River or Allstate and require specific documentation.
How does Proposition 22 affect your legal options?
Prop 22 classifies drivers as independent contractors. This restricts direct lawsuits against Uber or Lyft and shifts the burden of liability primarily to the driver’s insurance. Additional benefits are also governed differently than traditional employment.
Your Rights and Remedies Under California Law
Can you sue Uber or Lyft directly?
No, in most cases. Because drivers are not considered employees, personal injury lawsuits are generally filed against the individual driver or their insurer not the rideshare company.
What compensation can victims claim?
Potential damages include:
- Medical bills (ER visits, surgeries, therapy)
- Lost wages and future income loss
- Pain and emotional suffering
- Long-term or permanent disability
- Vehicle or personal property damage
If the crash caused a brain injury or ongoing disability, a San Diego personal injury lawyer can help calculate future medical needs and earning losses.
What if a child was involved in the crash?
Minors require a legal guardian to file claims. Settlements over $5,000 must be approved by the court. For further steps, see our child injury claim services.
What to Do Right After a Rideshare Crash in San Diego
What are the immediate next steps?
Act quickly to protect your rights:
- Call emergency responders and document injuries
- Photograph the crash scene and app screen status
- Collect the driver’s license, registration, and rideshare ID
- Request a police report through San Diego PD
Should I give a statement to the insurance company?
No. Speak to an attorney first. Insurance companies are trained to minimize payouts, especially in rideshare claims.
How a Attorney in San Diego Can Help
Can a lawyer improve your case outcome?
Yes. An experienced attorney gathers digital logs, GPS records, and expert testimony to establish fault. They also calculate damages properly to avoid lowball offers. If you’re navigating a case involving Uber or Lyft, a trusted San Diego rideshare accident lawyer can help you pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to under California law.
How do legal fees work?
Most injury firms operate on contingency. You don’t pay unless your case wins. At Mova Law Group, this policy supports victims through every step.
Common Legal Questions About Rideshare Injury Cases
How long do I have to file a rideshare claim?
Two years from the accident date. This is the statute of limitations in California.
Can I still recover if I’m partially at fault?
Yes. California follows comparative negligence, meaning your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
What if the driver lacked insurance?
Uber and Lyft provide uninsured motorist coverage. It applies if the driver was using the app when the crash happened.
Can I file on behalf of a child injured in an Uber or Lyft crash?
Yes, as a parent or guardian ad litem. You must provide consent and get court approval if the compensation exceeds $5,000.
Start Your Rideshare Injury Claim With Mova Law Group
If you were injured in an accident involving Uber or Lyft, the legal process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Mova Law Group has helped countless San Diego residents recover physically and financially after rideshare accidents.
- Schedule a free consultation today with our experienced legal team
- Bring your documentation: medical records, ride receipts, police reports, and witness details
- Let Mova Law Group manage the entire process—from investigation to settlement negotiations
We charge nothing upfront, and you owe us nothing unless we win. Let our firm fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Helpful Law Reources:
- California Vehicle Code §5430–5436
- California Civil Code §1714 (Negligence)
- Uber Insurance
- Prop 22 Summary
- Lyft Insurance Overview
- San Diego Police Department Traffic Unit
Ready to Start? Contact Us Today!
(858) 333-4999