Injured in an Uber or Lyft? Know Your Passenger Rights in California
Rideshare accidents can be confusing — here’s what every Uber and Lyft passenger in Los Angeles should know about protecting their health and their claim.
Los Angeles lives on rideshare. From quick commutes across Downtown to late-night rides home from Santa Monica, apps like Uber and Lyft keep the city moving.
But when your ride ends in a crash, the experience can turn chaotic fast. Whose insurance covers you? What steps should you take?
Here’s a clear breakdown of your rights as a rideshare passenger, how Uber and Lyft insurance works, and what to do if you’re injured on public transit too.
Your Rights as a Rideshare Passenger
A concerned passenger in the back seat of a car, holding a phone with the Uber/Lyft logo visible.
You have the same legal protections as any other passenger in California. If you were injured in an accident while using Uber or Lyft, you can pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost income if you can’t work
- Pain and emotional suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Rideshare drivers — and the companies they drive for — have a duty of care to keep passengers safe. When negligence causes a crash, you have every right to seek recovery.
Understanding Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage
Rideshare insurance can be confusing, but here’s how it generally works:
- When the app is on and a ride is active, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage.
- If another driver is at fault, their insurance may cover you first — but Uber/Lyft’s policy can step in if that driver is uninsured or underinsured.
- If your driver is off-duty or waiting for a request, lower coverage limits apply.
Even with this safety net, multiple insurers often dispute who’s responsible — that’s where a rideshare accident attorney helps ensure you get full and fair compensation.
What to Do Right After a Rideshare Accident
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Safety comes first.
- Document the scene — photos of vehicles, location, and injuries.
- Report it in the app. Uber and Lyft both have “Safety Incident” or “Report an Accident” features.
- Avoid giving detailed statements to the company or insurers until you speak with a lawyer.
- Keep copies of medical records and expenses.
These first steps can make or break your claim — especially when rideshare companies try to limit their payout.
What About Public Transportation Accidents?
Even if your accident didn’t involve a rideshare, public transportation passengers have rights too.
If you’re injured on an LA Metro bus, DASH shuttle, or Metrolink train, your case involves government liability — and the process is different from a regular car crash claim.
- You must file an administrative claim within six months (California Tort Claims Act).
- The agency has 45 days to respond.
- You could be dealing with multiple liable parties — the driver, Metro, contractors, or another motorist.
- Surveillance footage may be erased within days, so time is critical.
Public transportation claims can be complex, but compensation is available for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Act fast to protect your case.
How Much Compensation Can You Get as a Rideshare Passenger?
Every rideshare accident is different, but your compensation can include:
- Economic damages: medical bills, rehab, income loss
- Non-economic damages: pain, trauma, loss of enjoyment
- Future damages: disability, therapy, or long-term care
An attorney will calculate the full picture — not just what Uber or Lyft’s insurer initially offers.
Why You Should Call a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Rideshare claims can pit you against billion-dollar companies and multiple insurance carriers. Maximus Law knows how to level the playing field.
We investigate the crash, preserve evidence, and fight to ensure Uber, Lyft, and their insurers honor your rights under California law.
Conclusion: Stay Protected — and Take Action
Whether you’re injured in a rideshare or on public transit, your recovery and legal claim deserve attention right away.
📞 Call Maximus Law today for a free consultation.
Our Los Angeles-based attorneys specialize in rideshare, passenger, and public transportation accidents.
We handle the legal details — you focus on getting better.
Maximus Law, A.P.C. — Protecting Victims. Pursuing Justice.
Call Today: 833-863-2274
