Who Is Liable If You Are Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident in California?

 Posted on December 16, 2025 in Car Accidents

When a collision occurs during an Uber or Lyft ride, passengers face an immediate question: Who pays for their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages? The answer depends on liability. Who caused the crash, and what was the rideshare driver doing at the time of impact?

In California, insurance coverage for rideshare accidents follows standards set by the California Public Utilities Commission, with different policies applying based on the driver’s activity at the time. Accidents near high-traffic Los Angeles intersections like Sunset and Vine add another layer of complexity, as congestion and road conditions can affect fault determination. Los Angeles, CA rideshare accident lawyers can help you understand which insurance policies apply to your case and how to pursue the compensation you deserve.

How Does Liability Work After an Uber or Lyft Accident in California?

California uses a fault-based system. This means the person who caused the accident is generally responsible for the harm. California Civil Code Section 1714 states that individuals are accountable for injuries caused by their lack of ordinary care. This rule applies to rideshare drivers, other motorists, and in certain situations, even the rideshare companies.

If the Uber or Lyft driver violated a traffic law, such as speeding, making an unsafe turn, or driving distracted, they may be found negligent. That negligence makes them liable for any accident that resulted from their actions. If another driver hits the rideshare vehicle, then that driver’s insurance may be responsible.

Sometimes several people share responsibility. Under California’s comparative negligence law, fault is divided based on each party’s share of the blame. This also determines how much each insurance company may have to pay.

How Do Uber and Lyft Insurance Policies Apply?

Uber and Lyft both carry commercial insurance policies, but these policies only apply during certain stages of a trip. California rules divide rideshare activity into three periods, and each period has different insurance coverage levels.

Period one applies when the driver has the app on but has not accepted a ride request. Coverage during this time is more limited. Period two begins when the driver accepts a ride and is driving to pick up the passenger. At this point, liability limits increase. Period three applies when the passenger is in the rideshare vehicle. This stage offers the highest insurance limits under California law.

What If Vehicle Problems or Company Policies Played a Role?

Some crashes occur because of issues other than driver error. A crash might involve worn brakes, old tires, or other maintenance problems. When this happens, responsibility may extend to the driver for failing to keep the vehicle in a safe condition.

Company practices can also influence safety. If a rideshare company encourages long driving hours, the driver may be fatigued, which can lower reaction time. While these situations are more complex, they still play a role in determining fault and insurance obligations.

What Should You Do After a Rideshare Accident?

What you do immediately after a car accident can help or hurt your claim. Consider taking the following steps to help increase your chance at receiving the compensation you need:

• Get medical care as soon as possible.

• Save screenshots of your ride details and driver information.

• Report the crash through the rideshare app.

• Collect witness names and contact details.

• Take photos of the crash scene, including damage and road conditions.

• Contact an attorney before speaking with insurance companies.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Glendale, CA Rideshare Accident Attorney

Rideshare injury cases involve multiple insurance policies, complex fault determinations, and companies that prioritize their bottom line over your recovery. Contact Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C. at 818-242-8201 to speak with our Los Angeles, CA rideshare accident lawyers who can review your case. Our family practice understands what's at stake, and we'll guide you through every step of the claims process.