Riverside Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Injured in a Riverside Uber or Lyft Accident? Let’s Talk About Your Rights

In April 2025, a chaotic multi-car collision in downtown Riverside left one person dead and six hospitalized. Days later, a DUI crash near University Avenue killed a 60-year-old man. Not long before that, a suspected drunk driver pulling a horse trailer caused a fatal wreck on Washington Street.

These tragic events are a sobering reminder of just how quickly a routine ride can turn into a life-altering event.

For many, that routine ride means stepping into a rideshare vehicle. Uber and Lyft have become part of everyday life across California, with millions using these services for daily commutes, airport pickups, and nights out. Both companies launched in the state (Uber in San Francisco in 2010, followed by Lyft in 2012) and quickly expanded into Riverside.

What started as a way to make transportation easier has become a major piece of our local traffic.

But when rideshare drivers get into crashes, things get complicated. Who’s liable? Is it the driver, the company, or someone else? What if you were a passenger? What if you were hit by a rideshare car while driving, biking, or walking?

Our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers help you get answers. If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft crash, you don’t have to face the insurance companies alone. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

 

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What Compensation Can You Recover After a Riverside Rideshare Crash

After a rideshare accident in Riverside, you may be eligible for compensation that covers the full scope of your losses. This includes more than just the cost to fix your car or cover your hospital bill.

You can potentially recover:

  • Medical expenses, including ER visits, surgeries, and follow-up care
  • Lost income if your injuries has prevented you from working
  • Pain and suffering for both the mental and physical toll
  • Property damage for your personal items or vehicle
  • Future medical costs, or loss of earning capacity in severe cases

In fatal crashes, eligible family members may also pursue wrongful death claims. Every case is different, and your claim depends on who was at fault, how badly you were hurt, and what coverage is available.

Talk to our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How Our Riverside Rideshare Accident Lawyers Investigate and Prove Fault

Proving fault in an Uber or Lyft accident can be tricky, especially when multiple vehicles or drivers are involved. At Thompson Law, we focus on facts and follow the digital trail.

Here’s how we investigate:

We use all this information to determine if the rideshare driver, another motorist, or even the rideshare company contributed to the crash.

Contact our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

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Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best personal rideshare accident law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated personal rideshare accident 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 an accident case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law‘s Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Common Types of Injuries

Rideshare collisions often involve fast-moving traffic, distracted drivers, or sudden stops, which can lead to a wide range of injuries. At Thompson Law, we’ve helped rideshare accident victims in Riverside recover from all types of trauma, some of which may not show symptoms until hours or days after the crash.

These are some of the most common injuries we see:

Even minor symptoms should be taken seriously after a rideshare crash. Delayed pain can lead to more serious complications if left untreated. If you’ve been hurt, we recommend seeking medical attention right away, then speaking with a Riverside rideshare accident lawyer to protect your rights.

Contact our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

At Thompson Law

We provide rideshare accident victims with dedicated and tenacious legal representation, ensuring you get fair value for your claim. Our Riverside rideshare accident 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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The Layers of Insurance Coverage in Rideshare Crashes

Rideshare accidents in California fall under a layered insurance system, depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

Here’s how it works:

  • Driver not logged into the app:  Their personal auto insurance is the only coverage available.
  • Driver logged into the app, but no ride accepted yet:  Uber or Lyft provides limited liability coverage, up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident.
  • Driver en route to pick up or transporting a passenger:  Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

This system helps protect both passengers and third parties but often leads to disputes over which coverage applies.

Let our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers help you sort it out. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Using Trip Logs and App Data to Support Your Rideshare Accident Claim

Trip logs and app data can be powerful tools in a rideshare injury claim. They show when the driver was active, where the trip began and ended, and if the company’s insurance should apply.

We use this data to:

  • Confirm the driver was on duty when the crash happened
  • Track speeds, routes, and possible reckless driving
  • Tie your injuries directly to the rideshare trip

Uber and Lyft keep digital records of every trip, but getting that data can take legal action. Our team knows how to request and use this information to support your case.

Reach out to our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

What to Do If You Were Hurt While Using a Rideshare App in Riverside

If you were injured as a rideshare passenger, here’s what to do next:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident.
  2. Get medical attention, even if you feel okay.
  3. Save screenshots of your ride receipt and trip details.
  4. Get names and contact info from everyone involved.
  5. Report the crash to Uber or Lyft through the app.
  6. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurers without legal advice.

Most importantly, speak with a lawyer before accepting any settlement.

Talk to our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers now for a FREE CONSULTATION.

When Uber or Lyft Denies Responsibility, And What Happens Next

Sometimes Uber or Lyft tries to avoid liability by claiming the driver was an independent contractor or off-duty. In these cases, it’s important to look at the app status, the trip history, and how much control the company had over the driver’s work.

If your claim is denied:

  • We investigate the timeline and request all available app data.
  • We challenge any denial based on the company’s insurance agreement.
  • We build your case for trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered.

Don’t accept a denial without speaking to someone who understands rideshare accident law.

Call our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW today.

What If You Were a Pedestrian or Cyclist Hit by a Rideshare Driver?

Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable in rideshare crashes. In Riverside, many popular pickup spots are located near busy intersections and college areas, which increases risk.

If you were hit by an Uber or Lyft vehicle:

  • You can still file a claim even if you weren’t a passenger.
  • Rideshare insurance may still apply if the driver was logged into the app.
  • If the driver was off-duty, we can pursue their personal insurance.

We’ll help determine which policy applies and fight for your full compensation.

Contact our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Can You File a Claim if the Uber or Lyft Driver Was Off-Duty?

Even if the driver wasn’t logged into the app, you can still file a claim through their personal auto insurance. California law requires all drivers to carry minimum coverage, and rideshare drivers are no exception.

The challenge is proving the driver’s status at the time of the crash. That’s why we:

  • Review driver app activity and timelines
  • Look into any prior complaints or unsafe driving records
  • Help you access medical coverage while the insurance dispute is handled

If needed, we explore other options like uninsured motorist coverage or third-party liability.

Call our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Riverside’s Most Dangerous Intersections & Hotspots for Rideshare Crashes

Rideshare accidents in Riverside tend to happen in the same busy spots where other serious collisions occur. Intersections with high traffic volume, heavy foot traffic, and multiple turning lanes are especially risky for Uber and Lyft drivers trying to navigate unfamiliar roads, meet pickup times, or deal with distracted passengers.

Based on local traffic data and historical patterns, some of Riverside’s most dangerous intersections include:

  • Van Buren Boulevard and Arlington Avenue
  • Van Buren Boulevard and Indiana Avenue
  • Tyler Street and Magnolia Avenue
  • Van Buren Boulevard and Trautwein Road
  • Van Buren Boulevard and Jurupa Avenue

These intersections are frequently used by rideshare drivers traveling between downtown Riverside, residential areas, and major destinations like shopping centers, hotels, and college campuses. Quick stops, lane merges, and speeding are common at these locations, which increases the odds of a crash, especially during peak commute hours or weekend nightlife traffic.

Even if you were just a passenger, being hit in one of these crash-prone zones can leave you with serious injuries and unanswered questions. Our team can help you make sense of what happened and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Local Crash Data: Uber and Lyft Accident Statistics in Riverside

While there are no publicly available numbers that track exactly how many Uber or Lyft crashes happen in Riverside, the city’s overall traffic injury data paints a clear picture: the roads are dangerous, and rideshare drivers are often part of the mix.

According to 2022 data from the California Office of Traffic Safety:

  • 1,764 people were killed or injured in total crashes
  • 690 DUI arrests were made
  • 266 crashes were caused by speed
  • 194 hit-and-runs were recorded
  • 165 accidents involved alcohol
  • 91 involved motorcyclists
  • 91 involved pedestrians
  • 46 involved bicyclists

Zooming out to Riverside County in the same year:

  • 15,151 people were killed or injured in total crashes
  • Over 3,100 were speed-related
  • More than 1,100 were hit-and-runs
  • Close to 2,000 involved alcohol
  • Over 1,000 involved motorcycles
  • 543 crashes involved pedestrians
  • 320 involved bicyclists

Riverside ranks 6th among 15 similarly sized cities in California for total injury crashes, and that doesn’t include how many of those involved rideshare vehicles. Still, given the number of Uber and Lyft drivers operating in the area and the sheer volume of trips completed daily, it’s likely that a significant share of these crashes involve rideshare vehicles either directly or indirectly.

If you were hurt while riding with Uber or Lyft (or hit by one) don’t wait to get answers. Reach out to our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Riverside Ordinances That Impact Uber and Lyft Claims

Rideshare accidents in Riverside don’t just involve the usual traffic laws. They’re shaped by a complex framework of state and local regulations that affect how claims are handled and who may be held responsible. Uber and Lyft drivers operate under a unique legal structure in California, which directly influences injury claims, insurance coverage, and employment rights.

State Laws and Rideshare Liability

California’s AB 2293 requires Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft to maintain tiered insurance coverage. This means:

  • While the app is on and waiting for a ride (Period 1), limited liability coverage applies.
  • From the moment a ride is accepted to when it ends (Periods 2 and 3), full commercial coverage kicks in, typically $1 million in liability insurance.

Drivers are also required to carry personal insurance, undergo annual vehicle inspections, and follow strict operational standards under the California Public Utilities Code and Business & Professions Code. If a driver lacks proper documentation or vehicle certification, it can complicate claims or shift liability back to the company.

Proposition 22 and Driver Status

Passed in 2020, Proposition 22 classified rideshare drivers as independent contractors instead of employees. This limits some legal protections and benefits but still mandates certain standards, including a healthcare stipend, minimum earnings guarantee (120% of local minimum wage while actively driving), and accident insurance.

Riverside County Requirements

On a local level, Riverside County and the City of Riverside may require rideshare drivers to hold a business license if they’ve operated for more than 30 days in a year. If a driver doesn’t meet this requirement, it could raise questions about their legal operating status and the validity of their commercial insurance at the time of a crash.

Emblems, Inspections, and Local Restrictions

Drivers must display Lyft and Uber emblems on both windshields while operating, complete annual inspections, and follow local restrictions on where and how they can pick up passengers, especially near airports and designated traffic zones. Failure to comply with these requirements can affect liability and how insurance companies handle your claim.

Labor Disputes and Wage Theft Investigations

Separate lawsuits filed by California’s Labor Commissioner and Attorney General allege Uber and Lyft underpaid drivers between 2016 and 2020. These cases do not directly impact individual injury claims, but they do explore broader questions of accountability and fair treatment.

If a driver involved in your accident was misclassified or lacked proper training, it could factor into your claim.

If you were injured in a Riverside rideshare crash, your case may hinge on more than just who had the green light. Vehicle inspections, licensing compliance, insurance periods, and worker classification all come into play. Our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers understand these layers and are ready to help you sort through them.

Contact our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Where to Seek Medical Help After a Rideshare Crash in Riverside

Getting checked out by a doctor right after a rideshare crash is one of the most important steps you can take for your health and your case. Even if your injuries seem minor, documentation from a medical professional can help you recover fair compensation later.

Riverside has several hospitals and urgent care centers that treat crash-related injuries:

If you’re seriously hurt, call 911 immediately. First responders will take you to the nearest emergency facility. After that, make sure to follow up with your primary care provider or a specialist.

Not sure where to start? Our team can refer you to doctors familiar with accident-related care.

Talk to our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers now for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How to Get a Crash Report from the Riverside Police Department

A crash report is often one of the strongest pieces of evidence in a rideshare accident case. It documents key facts like time, location, weather, involved parties, and officer observations. In Riverside, these reports are managed by the Riverside Police Department (RPD).

Here’s how to get your report:

Reports are usually available 7 to 10 business days after the incident. If you don’t have the report number, the department can help search by driver name, location, or approximate time.

Need help retrieving it? Our legal team can take care of this for you.

Contact our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Why Hire Thompson Law for Your Uber or Lyft Injury Case in Riverside

When you’re up against a billion-dollar company like Uber or Lyft, you need more than just a law firm. You need a team that knows exactly how to fight back. At Thompson Law, we’ve built a reputation across Riverside for taking on tough cases and getting real results for crash victims.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • We know how rideshare cases work. From insurance period breakdowns to app data requests, we understand the fine print these companies rely on.
  • We handle everything. While you focus on recovery, we’ll gather evidence, deal with adjusters, and fight for fair compensation.
  • We’re local and accessible. We know Riverside streets, intersections, courtrooms, and hospitals, and we keep you informed every step of the way.
  • We don’t get paid unless you do. Our contingency-based fees mean no upfront costs and no stress.

We’re ready to stand by your side. Call our Riverside rideshare accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

 

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FAQs About Riverside Rideshare Accidents

What if the rideshare driver fled the scene before I could report the accident?

Hit-and-run involving Uber or Lyft vehicles can complicate your claim, but you still have options. If you were a passenger, Uber and Lyft can often use trip records and GPS data to identify the driver. If you were a pedestrian or another driver, police reports, traffic cameras, and witness statements may help track them down. Contact an attorney right away to begin an investigation and preserve any digital evidence.

Can I still sue if I was partly at fault in a rideshare crash in Riverside?

Yes. California follows a comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially to blame. Your compensation will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% responsible, you could still recover 80% of your total damages.

What happens if the rideshare driver didn’t have the required business license in Riverside?

Operating without a valid business license could signal other violations, such as insurance gaps or inspection failures. While it doesn’t automatically invalidate your claim, it can impact liability and may shift more responsibility to the rideshare company. A lawyer can determine how this detail affects your case.

Can I file a claim if the accident happened while getting in or out of the Uber or Lyft car?

Yes. Injuries that occur during the entry or exit process can still fall under the rideshare company’s coverage, especially if the driver failed to stop safely or opened doors into oncoming traffic. Be sure to document exactly when and how the incident occurred.

What if the driver accepted another ride immediately after my crash without reporting it?

Drivers are required to report all accidents to Uber or Lyft. If they don’t, it can delay your claim or result in the denial of coverage. However, rideshare platforms log every ride and timestamp, so we can subpoena this data to prove the crash happened on their watch, even if the driver failed to disclose it.

 

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.