San Bernardino Rideshare Accident Lawyer

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San Bernardino Rideshare Accident Attorney

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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What Is a Rideshare Accident?

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.

Major San Bernardino Car Accident Settlement Results

✓ $450K – Bike vs. Auto accident
✓ $100K– Vehicle accident involving a light dispute
✓ $100K– Auto vs Auto

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.

FAQs

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.

Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

If you were injured in a rideshare accident, Gonzales Law Offices can help. Contact us today to speak with a representative.

San Bernardino 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

San Bernardino Rideshare Accident Resources:

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!