Rideshare accidents can be especially complex, with multiple drivers, insurance policies, and app-based companies often involved. An Anaheim rideshare accident lawyer can help injured passengers, drivers, and pedestrians learn how liability and coverage work after a crash involving Uber or Lyft.
At Gonzales Law Offices, we help people injured in rideshare accidents by investigating when the crash happened, which insurance policies may apply, and if negligence was involved, so our clients have a chance of navigating a process that is often more complex than a traditional car accident claim.
Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Gonzales Law Offices advocates for injured people across California on complex motor vehicle accident claims, including accidents involving rideshare services. The firm prides itself on thorough case evaluation, clear communication, and detailed review of insurance coverage issues commonly found in Uber and Lyft crashes.
Mark Gonzales has recovered over a million dollars for clients and previously worked in the insurance defense industry, providing him with an inside look at how insurers determine liability. However, past results do not guarantee a similar outcome; every case is different. Gonzales Law Offices takes on rideshare accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront legal fees.
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How Rideshare Insurance Coverage Works at Different Stages of a Trip
The dominant factor in rideshare accident claims is whether the driver was signed into the Uber or Lyft app when the accident happened. While offline, the driver retains only personal auto insurance coverage. Drivers who have logged in and are waiting for a ride request to come in only have limited third-party coverage.
A higher level of commercial liability insurance should be in place once a ride has been accepted or a passenger is in the car. Crashes often take place along Anaheim’s busy corridors, like Harbor Boulevard, or at the city’s freeway ingress and egress points where rideshare drivers frequently pick up or drop off passengers. Identifying what app status the driver was in is often the key question in determining which insurance coverage applies after a crash.
Who May Be Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident
Liability may rest with the rideshare driver, another driver, or several drivers at fault. The circumstances of the accident, like policy disputes on the rideshare company’s or personal auto coverage, can be crucial. California’s comparative fault system apportions liability among parties based on their actions.
Anaheim’s congested traffic near tourist spots and entertainment districts complicates fault assessment. Fault should be established based on police reports, witness accounts, and rideshare data rather than assumptions.
Why Rideshare Claims Can Be More Complicated Than Other Car Accident Cases
Rideshare collisions often involve layered insurance coverage and app-status disputes that do not exist in typical two-car crashes. Rideshare vehicles now comprise a substantial share of the total number of cars on the road daily, particularly in urban centers like Anaheim, resulting in a greater risk of collisions.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were about 4,061 traffic fatalities in California in 2023, the largest total of any state. In 2024, approximately 39,345 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes across the country.
With a combination of driving long hours, taking unfamiliar roads, and stopping more often, rideshare drivers may be at higher risk of being involved in a car crash. Traffic-fatality totals provide context for the risks on California roadways.
Time Limits for Filing an Anaheim Rideshare Accident Claim
California law places time limits on the right of an injured person to file a claim after a rideshare accident. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, most personal injury claims arising from a rideshare accident must be filed within two years of the date of the crash. This includes claims against Uber or Lyft, or against another motorist.
If a government entity was involved in the crash, shorter notice deadlines may apply. It is important to hire a rideshare accident lawyer who can act early on, as rideshare information, app data, and insurance information may become more difficult to obtain as time goes on.
Meet Attorney Mark Gonzales, Esq.
Lead Counsel, Gonzales Law Offices
Since 2007, Mark has represented injured clients across Southern California in car, motorcycle, and truck accidents, traumatic brain injuries, wrongful death, and premises liability. His time in insurance defense gives him inside perspective he uses to help clients take on powerful carriers. He has recovered over a million dollars for clients in difficult cases.
Bar: State Bar of California
Affiliations: CAALA, LACBA
Education: University of La Verne College of Law
Offices: Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Ontario
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What if I Was Hit by a Rideshare Vehicle While Driving or Walking?
If drivers, bicyclists, or pedestrians are injured by rideshare cars, their claims would proceed the same way that most injury cases do. Fault and not rideshare status determine who is liable for injuries. In fact, in some cases, there may even be more than one insurance policy to work with.
Determining how the crash happened and what part, if any, each driver played is an important part of proving who is responsible and what sources of compensation may be available.
Do Uber and Lyft Drivers Have the Same Duties as Other Drivers?
Rideshare drivers, like all California motorists, are legally obligated to follow the rules of the road. Drivers working as rideshare operators maintain their duty to operate vehicles safely even when working within their job responsibilities. If a driver is speeding, texting, or otherwise driving recklessly, that conduct may help establish liability in a rideshare accident claim.
Why Do Rideshare Accident Claims Take Longer Than Other Car Accident Cases?
Rideshare accident claims may require additional investigation and insurance review than typical car accidents. Determining the driver’s status, gathering app data, and addressing coverage disputes can take time. Also, the involvement of multiple insurers or parties in a rideshare claim may lengthen negotiations and the overall time to resolve compared to standard vehicle collision cases.
Does It Matter Whether the Rideshare Driver Was Using Their Personal Vehicle?
Rideshare drivers generally use their own vehicles. Despite this fact, coverage exists alongside liability responsibilities. It may become a question of how the vehicle was being used at the time of the crash and what policies apply to that use. Owning the vehicle personally does not preclude an injured person from pursuing a claim when the rideshare driver crashes and causes injury.
Contact an Anaheim Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Uber and Lyft accidents can pose unique legal challenges compared to traditional motor vehicle collisions. Rideshare crashes can present complex liability issues and insurance coverage questions. A rideshare accident attorney in Anaheim can help injured victims understand how California law applies to Uber and Lyft crashes and explain all available legal options.
The attorneys at Gonzales Law Offices offer clear answers for clients seeking to pursue accountability after a rideshare collision. Schedule a consultation today.
Anaheim Rideshare Accident Lawyer Reviews
★★★★★
“On April 9th 2024, I was in a very severe accident caused by a reckless driver. I had contacted Gonzalez law firm in which Mrs. Marilyn explain the procedures, and helped me through process. They were very responsive and answered any questions that arose. They were very attentive and if I needed any additional help, they were willing to get me the necessary help I needed. They were very helpful and would highly recommend this law firm.” – Carmen Villalobos
★★★★★
“I am extremely pleased with Gonzalez law. Mr. Mark Gonzalez himself is a very well rounded and educated lawyer in his field. He was communicative, concise, and efficient with handling my personal injury case. I am grateful to have him as my lawyer. His staff was informative and helpful with getting through my process and the he decision to choose this firm was the best decision I could have made. Thank you Mr. Gonzalez and your team! Continue to serve the community well. It is very much appreciated!” – Roza Keflom
★★★★★
“Great Experience. Once I entered you can feel they care. They talk with Experience and knowledge. Thankful to be represented by this law firm! Will recommend.” – Edward SerranoWB
I could not be more happy with the help Mark Gonzales provided. He was there for me every step of the way. He explained each step in a way that was easy for me to understand. He was available to me when ever I had a concern. His staff made me feel like I was family. I highly recommend Mark to anyone who needs legal help!
Robert R.
Mark helped me recover all my expenses due to my car accident. The insurance company tried to slow the process and doubted that I was even injured. Mark fought for me and gave me peace of mind. I felt like I had an army on my side since his staff worked tirelessly for me. They got the insurance company off my back and helped me get back on my feet faster than I expected.
April F.
Mark did a fantastic job for me when I slipped in a restaurant. I owner had the nerve to claim it was my heels, when clearly the floor was damaged and caused me to fall. He tried to make himself look like the victim of a scam. Mark put an end to that real fast. He took control of everything for me. He helped me get my medical costs paid as well as compensation for the lost time at work.
Dottie F.
The Law Office of Mark Gonzales was a smooth experience people were great and professional !! I would recommend them to anyone and if I ever need an injury attorney again I will definitely come back. THANK YOU.
Vanessa M.
The people working here are very nice and helped make a bad experience better. They made the process go smoothly and were always willing to help and answer my questions. The attorney was very personable and willing to help. The office makes sure you are comfortable and that you understand the process. I highly recommend them.
Elizabeth R.
I would like to thank the attorney Mark Gonzalez and his staff for the prompt results representing my family with our case, I would highly recommend his office, thank you in advance.
Jose G.
I want to highly recommend the lawyer Mark Gonzalez due to his great work. He took my case and won it even though another lawyer had said it was a lost case. Very friendly environment especially with the secretary at the front desk. Thank you!
Marelena R.
Mr. Gonzales did an amazing job in solving my case. I was feeling helpless and all hope lost, but him and his staff got me through it. I wouldn’t consider any other attorney than Mr. Gonzales himself. 100% recommended!
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