San Jose Uber Accident Lawyer

Our San Jose Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer are dedicated to protecting clients’ legal rights and best interests. Discover how our award-winning legal team in Santa Clara County can maximize your claim. Schedule a free consultation online or by calling us at (409) 449-6897.

How a San Jose Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer Will Benefit Your Case
Is Uber or Lyft Liable After an Accident
Will Uber or Lyft Cover the Damages from the Accident
What Can Be Compensated in a Rideshare Accident?
Common Types of Uber and Lyft Accidents in San Jose, CA

Why Hire a San Jose Lyft and Uber Accident Lawyer

Injured in an Uber or Lyft accident? You may be eligible for financial compensation.

Uber and Lyft have revolutionized commuting for daily travel and everyday use. However, this increase in rideshare services, particularly in crowded regions like Silicon Valley, has led to a rise in overall motor vehicle accidents.

Adding to the legal complexity surrounding personal injury cases, car accidents involving rideshare drivers are handled differently than standard auto accidents. If you’ve been injured while riding in an Uber or Lyft, or hit by a rideshare vehicle, you have the right to pursue fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.

Our dedicated rideshare injury legal team will handle your case from initial claim to settlement or verdict. Our legal services include:

Thorough investigation: Gathering evidence to understand how and why the accident happened
Identifying liable parties: Determining all parties responsible for the crash to hold them accountable for damages
Insurance claims and negotiations: Filing insurance claims and negotiating with insurance companies for the maximum compensation
Medical care coordination: Coordinating medical treatment and working to reduce medical liens for clients
Lawsuit filing: Pursuing the rideshare accident case in court if a fair settlement isn’t offered during negotiations
Court representation: Representing clients in court if the case goes to trial

Our San Jose Lyft and Uber accident attorneys help injured victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses caused by a driver’s or the rideshare company’s negligence.

Free Consultation • No Fees Unless We Win • Se Habla Español

Common Causes of San Jose Lyft and Uber Accidents

Due to various distractions such as GPS navigation, phone notifications, and the pressure to quickly complete rides, drivers are prone to collisions. These accidents can result in severe injuries for passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers.

In San Jose, Uber accidents can occur due to various forms of driver negligence, including:

Distracted driving: Texting, using the app, or other distractions
Speeding: Exceeding limits to complete more rides
Driver fatigue: Operating a vehicle for extended hours
Traffic violations: Illegal turns, lane changes, running red lights or stop signs, and following too closely
Driving under the influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired
Inexperienced or untrained drivers: Lacking the necessary skills or knowledge
Poor vehicle maintenance: Neglecting essential vehicle upkeep

Unique Circumstances Surrounding Uber and Lyft in Car Accident Cases

San Jose’s active tech industry and widespread suburbs create a continuous need for Uber and Lyft services. The increasing number of drivers vying for passengers has led to a rise in accidents, particularly during:

Peak commute hours on Highway 101, I-880, and downtown corridors.
Weekend nightlife traffic in areas like downtown San Jose and Santana Row.
Airport pickups at San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC).
Special events at venues such as SAP Center or Levi’s Stadium.

Rideshare companies often fail to monitor driver fatigue or enforce safety standards, leaving passengers vulnerable to preventable crashes.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Following any motor vehicle accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention to document injuries. Uber and Lyft collisions can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Common suffered injuries in these accidents include:

Whiplash and soft tissue damage
Broken bones and fractures
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Neck and back injuries
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Internal bleeding or organ damage
Facial injuries and scarring
Emotional distress or PTSD

Who Can Be Held Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Determining liability in a rideshare crash depends on who caused the accident, either directly or indirectly, and the driver’s status within the rideshare app. Potential at-fault parties may include:

The at-fault driver: The Uber driver or any other motorist involved
Other contributing drivers: When more than one party shares responsibility, like a vehicle manufacturer for faulty parts or a government entity for poor road maintenance
Third-party contractors: If maintenance failures contributed to the accident
The Uber or Lyft driver: If driver negligence, like speeding, texting, or using the rideshare app, caused the accident
Vehicle manufacturers: In cases of defective vehicle parts, like tires, the braking systems, or airbags

Often, multiple parties may share responsibility for the accident, including the Uber driver, the rideshare company, and other drivers involved in the incident. An experienced San Jose Uber accident attorney will investigate the details of your case to identify every potential source of monetary compensation.

What if I’m Also at Fault?

In California, the principle of pure comparative negligence allows you to seek damages even if you bear some responsibility for the accident.

Our legal team is dedicated to minimizing your assigned percentage of fault and preventing insurance companies from unjustly placing the full blame on you.

California’s Comparative Negligence Law

California law follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means the party seeking damages may still recover some compensation, even if partially responsible for contributing to their own injuries.

For example, if you were not wearing a seatbelt when the crash occurred and suffered a TBI as a result, the courts may deem you partially at fault. If total damages awarded are $100,000, but you were found 20% at fault, you can still recover $80,000.

Our attorneys fight to minimize your percentage of fault and ensure insurance companies don’t unfairly blame you.

How Uber and Lyft’s Insurance Coverage Works

Both Uber and Lyft are required to carry a $1 million insurance policy that includes liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. However, this coverage is subject to specific qualifications and is not automatically accessible to the injured parties after an accident.

Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies are distinct from personal auto insurance. Coverage is limited to specific scenarios and comes with varying policy limits. An overview of coverages consists of the following details.

Period 0: The Lyft/Uber Driver Is Offline

If an Uber or Lyft driver is not logged into the app, the rideshare company is not responsible. In such cases, only the personal auto insurance of the drivers involved may apply.

The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
Uber and Lyft provide no coverage if the driver isn’t logged into the app.

Period 1: The Driver Is Waiting for a Ride Request

This period begins when an Uber or Lyft driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride. If an accident occurs during this period, coverage may be provided by the driver’s personal auto insurance and the rideshare company’s liability coverage, which includes:

$50,000 per person for bodily injury
$100,000 per accident for bodily injury
$30,000 for property damage

Period 2: The Driver En Route to Pickup or During a Ride

This period begins when a driver is actively logged into the app, accepts a ride request, and is en route to pick up a passenger. The rideshare company’s insurance policy covers passenger injuries and other sustained damages.

Uber and Lyft’s $1,000,000 liability policy applies.
This coverage also includes uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) protection if another driver caused the crash but has insufficient insurance.

Period 3: The Driver En Route to Drop-Off Location

This period begins when a driver is currently driving the passenger to their destination. The rideshare company’s insurance policy covers passenger injuries and other sustained damages. Additionally, during this time, the same coverage from Period 2 is also available.

Uber and Lyft’s $1,000,000 liability policy applies.
This coverage also includes uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) protection if another driver caused the crash but has insufficient insurance.

Determining the applicable insurance policy is vital and often disputed. Our attorneys manage all communications with insurance adjusters throughout the claims process, ensuring they do not undervalue or deny legitimate Uber and Lyft accident claims.

Types of Compensation Available

We work with medical and economic experts to calculate the full extent of losses, not just what the insurer wants to pay. Our goal is to pursue compensatory damages for both economic and non-economic damages that may be awarded.

Economic Damages

Hospital bills, surgery, and physical therapy
Prescription medications
Lost wages or business income
Future medical care
Property repair or replacement

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment of life
Scarring or disfigurement
Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence, such as a rideshare driver who was drunk driving, victims may also be awarded punitive damages. Unlike economic and non-economic losses, punitive damages are meant to punish and prevent similar behavior.

Statute of Limitations for Uber and Lyft Accidents in California

In California, a personal injury lawsuit, including those stemming from Uber/Lyft accidents, generally must be filed within two (2) years of the accident date. This is known as the statute of limitations.

While there are exceptions that can either shorten or lengthen this filing period, it is crucial to understand how these specific circumstances might affect your individual case. It is highly advisable not to delay, as waiting makes it increasingly difficult to collect necessary evidence and obtain witness statements.

Common Scenarios in Uber and Lyft Accidents

Lyft/Uber accident claims, particularly those involving rideshares, present unique legal challenges. Our firm specializes in these complex cases, offering the expertise of dedicated Uber and Lyft accident lawyers. We frequently handle a range of situations, including:

Passenger Injured in an Uber or Lyft

If you were a passenger who sustained injuries in an Uber/Lyft accident, you’re covered by a $1 million policy. This applies whether your rideshare driver was at fault or another driver was responsible for the accident.

Uber and Lyft drivers are responsible for passenger safety and can be held liable for accidents caused by their negligence. They have a legal duty to exercise care when transporting passengers, and their insurance coverage is crucial for compensating for any injuries that may occur.

Other Driver Hit by an Uber/Lyft Vehicle

If a rideshare driver caused a collision, you have the option to file a claim with the insurer of either Uber or Lyft, contingent on the driver’s active app status at the time of the incident.

Pedestrian or Cyclist Hit by a Rideshare Driver

Similar to a vehicle-on-vehicle accident, a rideshare company’s insurance policy also provides monetary compensation for pedestrians and bicyclists hit by one of their drivers.

Multi-Vehicle Collisions

In multi-vehicle accidents, more than one party may bear responsibility for damages. We will carefully investigate the car accident to determine which insurance company to file a claim with and ensure all negligent drivers are held responsible.

Challenges in the Rideshare Accident Claims Process

Uber and Lyft are multi-billion-dollar corporations. Consequently, their insurance companies and legal defense teams are committed to minimizing payouts. Common tactics used to avoid responsibility or minimize payouts include:

Denying Responsibility: Blaming the driver, another motorist, or other external factors
Disputing “On-App” Status: Claiming the driver was not actively working through the app at the time of the incident
Offering Insufficient Settlements: Proposing lowball offers that fail to cover the full extent of medical expenses
Delaying Resolution: Prolonging the claims process in the hope that victims will abandon their pursuit of compensation

Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer understands their strategies. We build strong cases with irrefutable evidence, utilize expert testimony, and relentlessly pursue maximum settlements for clients. Furthermore, we are committed to helping clients seek and obtain the highest possible compensation for their injuries.

Why Choose Our San Jose Uber and Lyft Accident Attorneys

Local Knowledge Will Improve Case Results

Given our in-depth understanding of San Jose’s heavily trafficked roads, including I-280, US-101, and the Almaden Expressway, our local rideshare law firm is uniquely positioned to handle personal injury claims involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle in the area.

We also recognize that San Francisco, a prominent tech hub, experiences similar rideshare activity and legal challenges. Our firm has a proven track record, having secured millions for accident victims across the Bay Area and Northern California.

Affordable Accessibility to the Best Legal Representation

With our “no-win, no-fee” guarantee, our legal services are accessible to everyone precisely when they need them most. Clients face no financial risks and are free from concerns about legal fees.

Our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing up front. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

Aggressive Representation with Personalized Care

Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer is prepared to contend with the large insurance companies and corporate defense firms. Our reputation for being trial-ready enables us to achieve fair compensation for clients.

Every case deserves individual attention. You are never just a case number at our firm. Therefore, you will work directly with an attorney who will keep you informed throughout the legal process while prioritizing your well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uber/Lyft Accidents

What if I was a passenger and the Uber or Lyft driver wasn’t at fault?

Even if the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient, you can still file a claim. In such cases, Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured policy may provide additional coverage. Regardless of apparent liability, it is vital for passengers to proceed with the necessary precautions to protect their legal rights and potential personal injury claims.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?

In some cases, yes. However, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, shielding them from direct liability, but we can still pursue claims against these companies for negligent hiring, inadequate safety protocols, or app-related distractions.

How long does an Uber or Lyft accident case take to settle?

The timeframe for a settlement can vary. Simpler cases where liability is apparent may be concluded within months, whereas those involving severe injuries or multiple parties, especially if they proceed to trial, could take considerably longer. During your free case evaluation, and once we have more information, we can offer a more precise estimate of the turnaround time.

What if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

Under California’s laws, you may still be able to pursue compensation even if you are partially at fault for your injuries. However, the amount will be reduced based on your assigned percentage of fault due to the comparative negligence rules.

What if Uber or Lyft denies my personal injury claim?

If a claim is denied because the Uber/Lyft driver was not logged into the app at the time of the accident, and the accident didn’t fall within one of the designated “periods,” we can initiate legal action against the driver, the at-fault driver’s insurance provider, or other responsible parties. Often, insurers will reconsider their stance when confronted with assertive legal measures.

Work With the Top Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers in Santa Clara County

An experienced lawyer from Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer helps injured victims seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. The aftermath of an accident does not have to be overwhelming; allow our experienced San Jose Uber/Lyft accident attorneys to guide you through this sensitive time with confidence.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

If you’ve been hurt due to an Uber and Lyft driver or a rideshare service’s negligence in San Jose or the surrounding Bay Area, you deserve compensation. Don’t face big corporations and insurance companies alone.

Address: 66 E. Santa Clara St. Suite 4, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone Number: (409) 449-6897

Our San Jose rideshare accident attorneys know how to take on Uber, Lyft, and their insurers to secure justice for victims. Contact us today, and schedule a free case evaluation.

Other Cases Our San Jose Personal Injury Attorneys Handle

We represent the areas of Downtown San Jose, Willow Glen, Berryessa, Evergreen, Rose Garden, Cambrian Park, Almaden Valley, North and West San Jose, Burbank, Japantown, Little Portugal, Alum Rock, and throughout Santa Clara County—including Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Los Gatos, Campbell, Milpitas, Mountain View, Palo Alto, and Morgan Hill.

After an accident, Jeff’s got you. Call or fill out our online case evaluation form. Our experienced personal injury attorneys in San Jose also specialize in the following practice areas:

Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer’s Other Locations

We have law offices throughout Southern and Northern California. Determine the viability of your rideshare case with our free case checker or schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with one of our personal injury lawyers today. Call us today at (409) 449-6897.