Huntington Beach Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Hurt in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Huntington Beach? Get Help at Thompson Law

When you hop into a rideshare car, you expect a safe and smooth ride. But when something goes wrong (a crash, a reckless driver, or a violent encounter), the damage can be life-changing.

Sadly, it’s happening more often than most people realize.

In one tragic case, a young man lost both of his legs while helping his Uber driver push a stalled car. The vehicle had run out of gas and stopped on the freeway. While trying to move it to safety, another car struck him. His life changed in seconds, and he now depends on around-the-clock care.

In another devastating crash, three young women were killed while riding in an Uber. A high-speed collision ended their lives instantly.

These aren’t isolated events. Across California,  including right here in Huntington Beach, rideshare accidents can leave passengers, pedestrians, and even other drivers seriously hurt. And in some cases, the companies behind these services try to avoid responsibility.

At Thompson Law, we believe victims deserve better. If you or someone you love was hurt in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, we’re here to help.

We know how to deal with the confusing insurance layers and push back when companies say “not our fault.”  Our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers fight for people who were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Call Thompson Law now for a FREE CONSULTATION. Speak with our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers and get answers today.

 

 

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What You May Be Entitled to After a Rideshare Crash

If you were hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be facing medical bills, missed work, and ongoing pain. The good news is that California law allows victims to seek compensation, and you might be entitled to more than you think.

Here’s what your claim could include:

Uber and Lyft carry up to $1 million in insurance for certain accidents, but getting that money isn’t automatic. These companies often try to deny claims or push the blame onto others.

That’s why it’s important to act quickly and talk to a lawyer who knows how rideshare claims work.

Call our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION and find out what your case could really be worth.

 

Huntington Beach Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Why Thompson Law Should Represent Your Rideshare Injury Claim

When it comes to rideshare cases, the rules are different. Multiple insurance policies, contract drivers, and app-based loopholes can make it hard to know who’s responsible. At Thompson Law, we don’t let those gray areas stop your claim.

Here’s why injured victims choose us:

  • We understand Uber and Lyft’s insurance structures
  • We fight back when companies try to deny or reduce claims
  • We work with medical experts to prove your injuries
  • We gather evidence quickly, including rideshare data and app logs
  • We don’t get paid unless we win for you

You’re already dealing with enough. Let us take the pressure off and fight for the results you deserve.

Start with a FREE CASE REVIEW from our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers.

Call for Your Free Consultation

(844) 308-8180

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best Huntington Beach injury law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated personal injury attorneys who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let a Huntington Beach injury case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law’s Huntington personal injury lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of Huntington Beach injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Common Types of Injuries

Even when rideshare trips feel routine, a sudden crash can cause serious and sometimes lasting injuries. Many of these are similar to what you’d see in other car accidents, but the risk may be higher when passengers are unbuckled or seated in the back.

Here are some of the most common injuries our clients report after Uber or Lyft crashes:

  • Whiplash and neck strain from sudden stops or rear-end collisions
  • Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI), especially in side-impact crashes
  • Back and spinal cord injuries that may lead to chronic pain or mobility issues
  • Broken bones, often from bracing during impact
  • Cuts and bruises from shattered glass or loose items in the vehicle
  • Chest injuries caused by seatbelts or hitting the seat in front
  • Internal bleeding or organ damage in high-speed crashes
  • Emotional trauma such as anxiety, PTSD, or trouble riding in cars again

Even injuries that seem minor at first can get worse over time. That’s why we always recommend seeing a doctor right away, and keeping records of everything.

If you’ve experienced any of these injuries in a rideshare accident, a lawyer can help you recover medical costs, lost income, and more. Talk to our Huntington Beach accident attorneys now for a FREE CONSULTATION.

At Thompson Law

We provide accident victims with dedicated and tenacious legal representation, ensuring you get fair value for your claim. Our Huntington injury lawyers will build a strong case with supporting evidence for injured victims so that you recover the money that you deserve.

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Who’s Liable in Huntington Beach Rideshare Accidents? Driver, App, or Both?

Rideshare accidents are different from regular car crashes because more than one party could be responsible.

Depending on the situation, liability could fall on:

  • The rideshare driver, for speeding, distraction, or reckless driving
  • Uber or Lyft, if their app glitched or they hired an unfit driver
  • Another driver, if they caused the collision
  • Multiple people, in multi-car crashes or unsafe pickup zones

It also matters what stage of the ride you were in. Were you waiting for a ride, in the car, or just dropped off? Uber and Lyft’s insurance coverage changes based on that, and so does your case.

Our team looks at every angle to hold the right parties accountable and maximize your compensation.

Let our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers review your case in a FREE CONSULTATION today. We’ll tell you who may be liable and what to do next.

What to Know About Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage After a Crash

If you were hurt in a crash involving an Uber or Lyft, understanding how their insurance works is key to knowing what your case may be worth. Both companies offer special insurance for accidents, but what’s covered depends on what stage the ride was in when the crash happened.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

When the App Is Off

If the rideshare driver wasn’t using the app, only their personal auto insurance applies. Neither Uber nor Lyft will cover anything.

When the App Is On but No Ride Is in Progress

This is the “waiting for a ride” period. Both Uber and Lyft offer limited third-party liability coverage if the driver causes a crash:

  • $50,000 per person for injuries
  • $100,000 total per accident for injuries
  • $25,000 for property damage

This coverage kicks in only if the driver’s personal insurance doesn’t cover the accident.

When a Ride Is Accepted or In Progress

This is when coverage gets much stronger. If you’re hurt as a rider or in another car:

  • Uber and Lyft provide at least $1 million in third-party liability coverage
  • Both companies may cover injuries caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers
  • They may also offer medical coverage (PIP or MedPay), no matter who caused the crash

If the rideshare driver has their own collision coverage, Uber and Lyft also offer coverage to repair the vehicle (up to its actual value), minus a $2,500 deductible.

Who Gets Covered?

  • Passengers
  • Other drivers involved in the crash
  • Bystanders or pedestrians (in some cases)
  • Rideshare drivers (with some limitations)

Insurance companies don’t always make it easy to get paid, especially when multiple policies overlap. That’s where legal help makes a big difference.

Our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers know how to handle these claims from start to finish. Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us walk you through your rights and next steps.

Injured as a Passenger? Here’s Who Pays for Your Medical Expenses

If you were riding in an Uber or Lyft when the crash happened, you’re likely covered under the rideshare company’s insurance. But exactly who pays depends on how the crash happened and who was at fault.

Here’s how it usually works:

  • If the rideshare driver caused the crash:  Uber or Lyft’s insurance should cover your medical bills. They provide up to $1 million in liability coverage during active rides.
  • If another driver caused the crash:  Uber or Lyft still offer coverage if that driver has no insurance or not enough of it. This is called uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
  • If both drivers share the blame:  You may be able to recover from both policies, depending on how fault is divided.

Either way, you shouldn’t be stuck with the costs. A lawyer can help file the right claims and deal with the back-and-forth between insurance companies.

Need help figuring out who should pay for your injuries? Call our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Trip Data, App Logs, and Digital Records That Can Support Your Case

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft track everything, and this data can make or break your injury case.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Timestamps show when the driver accepted your trip, when it started, and when the crash happened.
  • Route tracking proves where the driver was and how fast they were going before the crash.
  • App status (offline, waiting for a ride, or actively on a trip) determines which insurance coverage applies.
  • Driver actions (like hard braking or sudden turns) may also be recorded by the vehicle or app.

This digital paper trail helps show that:

  • The ride was active (triggering Uber or Lyft’s insurance)
  • The driver was speeding, distracted, or breaking traffic laws
  • You were a real passenger on the app, not just a bystander

The problem? Rideshare companies don’t always hand over this data easily. That’s why we send immediate legal requests to preserve the records before they disappear.

If you were hurt, let our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers pull the proof and protect your case. Start with a FREE CONSULTATION.

Off-App Drivers and Unofficial Rides: How We Handle Complex Claims

Not every rideshare crash involves a clean, app-based ride. Sometimes things get messy, like when:

  • A driver gives someone a ride without going through the app
  • The driver says the app was off, even though the ride was arranged through text or call
  • The driver switches between apps and isn’t logged into any during the crash

In these cases, the rideshare company may deny responsibility. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.

We dig into:

  • Phone records to show if the ride was arranged with a known driver
  • App usage logs to see if the driver was switching between rides
  • Insurance policies to find all possible sources of coverage
  • Driver background and history to show pattern behavior

These cases are harder to prove, but not impossible. And we know how to push back when Uber, Lyft, or insurers try to avoid liability.

Hurt in a confusing or off-the-record rideshare situation? Our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers can help you sort it out. Call now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Local Vehicle Ordinances That May Impact Your Rideshare Injury Case

In Huntington Beach and across California, local vehicle rules and rideshare regulations can play a big role in how your injury case unfolds. If you were hurt in an Uber or Lyft ride, understanding these rules can help explain who’s responsible and what compensation might apply.

Strict Rules for State Workers Using Ridesharing

California state employees using Uber or Lyft for government business must follow cost-saving rules. These include:

  • Choosing the cheapest ride option available (like UberX or Lyft Standard)
  • Avoiding surge pricing
  • Justifying any expensive upgrades to larger vehicles

While these policies are for government trips, they show how closely rideshare use is monitored. and why paper trails like receipts and ride logs matter in your claim.

Safety Checks Are Encouraged

Before entering a rideshare, passengers are advised to:

  • Match the driver’s name, license plate, and vehicle make/model to the app
  • Confirm the driver knows your name
  • Report mismatches or unsafe behavior directly in the app

These safety steps can protect your health, and also serve as proof that your ride was through an official platform, which triggers coverage from Uber or Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy.

Prop 22 and Your Legal Rights

After California passed Proposition 22, Uber and Lyft drivers were officially classified as independent contractors, not employees. This limits certain worker protections, but doesn’t remove your rights as a passenger. If you’re hurt, you still may be covered under rideshare insurance if:

  • The driver was logged into the app
  • You were in an active trip
  • The trip was arranged through the platform

Know Your Rights if You Were Hurt

If your driver was off the app, solicited the ride unofficially, or broke the local travel rules, those details could affect liability. And with new legislation (like AB 1340) aiming to give rideshare drivers more power, the way these cases are handled may continue to evolve.

Our team stays updated on local ordinances and state laws that apply to Uber and Lyft accidents. We’ll review the app data, driver status, and trip logs to build your case.

Contact our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’ll explain how the rules apply to your situation and help you move forward.

Hot Spots for Rideshare Accidents in Huntington Beach

Not every intersection in Huntington Beach carries the same risk. Some areas are busier, harder to navigate, or have poor visibility, especially dangerous when rideshare vehicles are picking up or dropping off passengers in a rush.

These locations stand out for frequent crashes involving cars, bikes, and rideshare drivers:

Ellis Avenue and Newland Street

This crossing has poor sight lines and steady vehicle flow. It’s especially dangerous during morning and evening commutes when Uber and Lyft trips spike.

Brookhurst Street and Adams Avenue

Known for constant congestion and red-light runners. This intersection sees heavy foot traffic and is near schools and businesses, creating high chances for serious wrecks.

Bolsa Avenue and Victoria Street

Residents have reported multiple collisions here. Limited signage and confusion about right-of-way make it a problem area, especially for rideshare drivers unfamiliar with the layout.

Other risky spots include:

  • Gothard Drive at Heil Avenue
  • Magnolia Street at Yorktown Avenue
  • Adams Avenue at Bushard Street
  • Goldenwest Street at Slater Avenue

If your crash happened at one of these intersections, you’re not alone, and legal help is available.

Call our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Emergency Rooms and Clinics for Rideshare Victims in Huntington Beach

If you’ve been in a rideshare crash, don’t wait to get checked out, even if you think you’re fine. Injuries like concussions, whiplash, or internal trauma often show up later.

Here are local places where many crash victims go for treatment:

  • Huntington Beach Hospital
  • Hoag Health Center Huntington Beach
  • Orange Coast Medical Center
  • UCI Medical Center
  • Fountain Valley Regional Hospital

Always keep copies of your medical bills and records, they can help prove your injury claim.

Need help covering those costs? Contact our Huntington Beach rideshare accident attorneys for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Where and How to Report an Uber or Lyft Crash in Huntington Beach

After a rideshare crash, getting a police report is one of the smartest things you can do. It creates a record of what happened and can help prove who was at fault.

To get your report:

In person

Go to the Records Counter at:

  • Huntington Beach Police Department
  • 2000 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
  • Open Tuesday–Thursday (8 a.m.–5 p.m.) and weekends (8 a.m.–12 noon)

Online

Visit the Huntington Beach PD website. Have your name, accident date, and report number ready. There may be a small processing fee.

Other things to know:

  • Reports take about 5 business days to show up
  • You may also need to file a DMV SR-1 form if someone was hurt or damage exceeds $1,000
  • For fatal crashes or missing reports, call 714-536-5641

Need help? We can request the report for you.

Reach out to our Huntington Beach rideshare accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Don’t Wait to Get Help, Schedule Your Free Case Evaluation With Thompson Law

Getting into a rideshare crash can turn your life upside down. But you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.

At Thompson Law, we make it easy to take the first step.

Whether you were riding in an Uber, driving your own car, or walking nearby when a rideshare crash happened, you may be entitled to compensation.

Schedule your FREE CASE REVIEW with our Huntington Beach rideshare accident attorneys today and let us help you move forward.

 

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FAQs About Rideshare Accident Claims in Huntington Beach

Can you still file a claim if you weren’t wearing a seatbelt during the rideshare trip?

Yes, you can. Not wearing a seatbelt doesn’t stop you from seeking compensation. It might affect the amount you can recover, but California law allows injury victims to pursue claims even if they were partly at fault. Your compensation may be reduced, but not denied outright.

What happens if the rideshare driver was driving recklessly or taking unsafe routes?

If your Uber or Lyft driver was speeding, running red lights, or making aggressive moves, that can be considered negligence. If the app was on and the ride was active, the company’s insurance policy may apply. In some cases, app data or passenger reports can help support your claim.

What if you didn’t know it was an official rideshare ride until after the crash?

If you got in the car and later realized it was an Uber or Lyft ride, or weren’t sure at the time of the crash, don’t worry. If the driver was using the app or giving a ride through the platform, you’re still likely covered under that company’s insurance policy.

Is it possible to sue Uber or Lyft directly after a crash?

Most injury claims are handled through Uber or Lyft’s insurance, not through lawsuits against the companies themselves. However, in rare situations, like when the company failed to vet a dangerous driver or there was an issue with the app, you might have grounds for a direct legal claim.

How long do you have to file a rideshare accident claim in California?

You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. But some situations, like those involving government entities, could have shorter deadlines. It’s important to act quickly so evidence doesn’t go missing and your claim remains valid.

Thompson Law Guarantee

Thompson Law charges NO FEE unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We’ve put over $1.9 billion in cash settlements in our clients’ pockets. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get your questions answered, and understand your legal options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.