Ridesharing is part of many daily routines in San Bernardino, whether you use Lyft or Uber. However, when an accident occurs with a rideshare vehicle, legal issues can be complicated. If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, a San Bernardino rideshare accident lawyer at Gonzales Law Offices is here to help you understand your rights so that you can take your next step with confidence.
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A rideshare accident is a car crash involving a rideshare driver who is transporting passengers as part of their job for Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service. Passengers, drivers, occupants of other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists can all be involved in a rideshare accident.
Rideshare accidents differ from regular car accidents due to the unique legal situations involved. Liability becomes more complicated when the driver turns on their app. If the driver was waiting for a request, driving to pick up a passenger, or transporting a passenger, their personal insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance may or may not cover the accident.
This complex system often confuses accident victims, which is why it’s so critical to have an experienced San Bernardino rideshare accident attorney on your side. Understanding how to hold the proper parties accountable and trigger the right insurance policies will significantly impact your claim.
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California Rideshare Accident Laws
California classifies rideshare companies as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), and they must adhere to regulations from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). They must carry a minimum amount of liability insurance coverage and coverage for property damage. This applies when the driver is on the app but has no passengers in the car. Once they accept a fare request or passenger, the coverage provided can go up substantially.
Your compensation and liability determination depend on whether the driver had their app activated. If they were not on their app at the time of the crash, you will seek damages from their own insurance company. If the driver was on their app, the rideshare company’s policy will be used. California has a comparative negligence system. If you share fault, your liability costs could be reduced by the percentage of fault you share.
Accident Statistics in San Bernardino
In San Bernardino County, 14,615 people were injured or killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2024. Automobile drivers and passengers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and individuals such as equestrians or train passengers represent all possible victims. When adjusted for population growth, the past year saw a 3% reduction in victims, and the last decade experienced a 1% decrease in victims. The victimization rate per 100,000 residents has fallen 4% since 2015.
While the city does not typically gather statistics on rideshare accidents specifically, the above accidents include rideshare crashes.
Since Proposition 22 and AB5 legislation make rideshare drivers independent contractors, this can also make it more difficult to establish legal responsibility after an accident. Even though Uber and Lyft are still required to offer insurance while drivers are engaged in a ride, they are often insulated from direct liability. That is why it becomes even more important for injured people to know how and when rideshare accident laws apply.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
If you are ever in a rideshare accident, there are certain steps you should take to help protect your future. This will typically involve different steps than a normal car accident. You should begin by doing the following:
Seek medical attention, even if your injuries are minor. You’ll want to make sure you do not have any hidden injuries, such as internal injuries.
Report the crash to the rideshare company.
Gather evidence, such as photos and videos of the crash and any injuries.
Keep records of any medical treatment you receive, such as medications and treatment plans.
After your initial steps, be sure to hire a rideshare accident lawyer to assist with your rideshare accident claim.
Why Choose Us?
At Gonzales Law Offices, our San Bernardino personal injury lawyers have been fighting for the rights of injury victims for over ten years. We have thorough knowledge of California state law and extensive experience with the San Bernardino Justice Center.
We know how to get results for our clients, and we do everything in our power to get the compensation you deserve. With personal attention and a proven track record, we have established ourselves as a respected law firm in the Inland Empire.
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 Should I Do If I’m Injured in a Rideshare Vehicle?
If you are injured while riding as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you should seek medical treatment, report the accident in the app, obtain the driver’s information, and take photographs, if possible. You should not make any statements to insurance companies without speaking with an attorney. Due to the unique insurance policies that rideshare companies maintain, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible after a rideshare accident.
Can You File a Claim Against Uber If You Get in an Accident?
You can take legal action following an Uber accident. Whether or not you can file a claim against the company itself will depend on the circumstances. If the driver was on duty using the app, Uber’s insurance policy may apply. California considers drivers independent contractors, which complicates holding the company directly liable. A lawyer can help identify the appropriate party or policy to pursue damages from.
How Much Is a Lyft Accident Settlement in California?
The size of a Lyft accident settlement in California will depend on the specifics of your accident. Each case is unique, which means each settlement is unique as well. Settlement amounts depend largely on the damages incurred, so accidents that result in a significant amount of medical treatment, property damage, and pain and suffering generally have larger payouts than minor accidents.
How Much Does a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Cost in California?
The cost of a rideshare accident lawyer can vary in San Bernardino, California. Many car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the lawyer does not get paid unless you win, and their fee will be a percentage of your settlement. This is financially beneficial for many people, as they do not have to worry about legal fees when seeking justice. It’s important to talk to your attorney upfront about fees so you are aware of your financial expectations.
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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.
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