San Diego Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Are You a Victim of a Rideshare Accident in San Diego?

Since Uber’s debut in San Diego in 2010, followed by Lyft later on, rideshare services have become a staple in the city’s transportation landscape. They offer convenient travel options for both locals and visitors, catering to various needs from daily commutes to special events.

As San Diego’s population has grown, so has the number of vehicles on its roads. This increase contributes to traffic congestion and a higher chance of accidents, including those involving rideshare vehicles. Collisions with Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare cars can be as hazardous as any other vehicle accident, potentially leading to serious injuries, emotional distress, and financial difficulties.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in San Diego, it’s important to understand your rights and the resources available to you. Navigating the complexities of insurance claims and determining liability can be challenging. Call Thompson Law today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

 

Rideshare accident in San Diego

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Rideshare accident cases can be complicated. Unlike regular car crashes, these accidents involve corporate insurance policies, legal loopholes, and disputes over liability. You may not know which insurance policy applies or how much compensation you should receive.

If you were injured in an accident involving an Uber, Lyft, or any other rideshare or delivery driver in San Diego, speaking with an attorney can help you protect your rights. A lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and handle the legal process so you can focus on healing. Get your FREE CASE REVIEW today!

 

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What Compensation Can I Receive After a Rideshare Accident in San Diego?

If you’ve been in a rideshare accident in San Diego, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the amount you can recover depends on the circumstances of the crash. A rideshare accident can leave you with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma, and knowing your options can help you get the financial support you need.

Here are the types of compensation our San Diego rideshare accident lawyers can help pursue for victims:

  • Medical Expenses:  Covers emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation.
  • Lost Wages If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for the income you missed while recovering. This may also include future lost earnings if your ability to work is permanently affected.
  • Property Damage If your car or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you can recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
  • Pain and Suffering:  Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, PTSD, and a reduced quality of life caused by the accident.
  • Punitive Damages In cases where the rideshare driver or another party acted with extreme negligence, a court may award additional damages to punish reckless behavior.
  • Rideshare Insurance Coverage:  Depending on whether the driver was waiting for a ride request, on the way to pick up a passenger, or had a passenger in the car, Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies may apply.

Every case is different, and getting fair compensation requires a strong legal strategy. If you were injured in a rideshare accident, contact our experienced San Diego rideshare accident lawyers to help you determine the full value of your claim.

Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents in San Diego

Establishing who is responsible in rideshare accidents can be complex, especially when determining if the driver was actively working for the rideshare company (picking up or transporting passengers) or driving for personal reasons. This distinction depends on whether the driver was using the rideshare app, which tracks active rides and determines insurance coverage.

  • If the Driver Was On Duty:  The company’s commercial insurance may apply.
  • If the Driver Was Off Duty:  The driver’s personal insurance typically handles the claim.

Establishing liability involves gathering evidence, reviewing app data, and analyzing the details of the accident. San Diego rideshare accident attorneys have the expertise to assess your case thoroughly, identify all responsible parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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Why Choose Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers

As one of the best personal injury law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated Rideshare Accident Lawyers 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 personal injury case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law’s San Diego 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.

Insurance Coverage in San Diego Rideshare Accidents

Insurance plays a major role in resolving claims and settlements after rideshare accidents, but it can be quite complex compared to traditional auto or commercial vehicle accidents. Compared to long-established regulations for commercial vehicles like trucks and delivery vans, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate under laws and emerging technology, creating new concerns in determining insurance coverage and liability.

In California, where San Diego’s a part of, Uber and Lyft have specific insurance requirements for their drivers. Here’s a breakdown of their coverage:

Uber’s Insurance Coverage for San Diego Rideshare Accidents

Uber’s insurance coverage depends on the driver’s activity in the app:

Offline

  • Only the driver’s personal insurance applies.
  • Drivers must maintain San Diego’s minimum insurance requirements.
  • Uber’s coverage does not apply.

Online but No Ride Accepted

  • Third-Party Liability:
    • $50,000 per person for injuries.
    • $100,000 per accident for injuries.
    • $25,000 for property damage.
  • Additional coverage may include uninsured/underinsured motorist protection and personal injury protection (PIP), depending on San Diego laws.

En Route or During a Trip

  • Third-Party Liability:  At least $1,000,000 for property damage and injuries.
  • Comprehensive and Collision:  Covers vehicle repairs up to the car’s value, with a $2,500 deductible, if the driver’s personal policy includes this coverage.
  • Additional coverage may include uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, PIP, and Optional Injury Protection for drivers.

Uber’s policies aim to provide robust protection, but conditions and exceptions apply. If you’ve been in injured from a rideshare accident, contact our San Diego rideshare accident lawyers to help you through the claims process.

Lyft Insurance Coverage

  • Base Coverage (When App is On but No Ride Accepted):
    • $50,000 per person for bodily injury.
    • $100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
    • $25,000 for property damage.
  • Coverage During Pickup or Ride:
    • $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage.
    • $250,000 in uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) bodily injury coverage.
    • Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage with a $2,500 deductible, covering physical damage up to the vehicle’s cash value if the driver has comprehensive and collision coverage on their personal policy.

Despite these clear coverage limits, restrictions and exceptions can make the claims process difficult. Coverage varies depending on the driver’s status (active on the app, en route to a passenger, or off-duty) and whether the driver’s personal policy applies.

If you need help understanding your options and pursuing a successful claim, contact our San Diego rideshare accident attorneys at (844) 308-8180 for a FREE CONSULTATION. We’re here to guide you through every step of your case.

At Thompson Law

We provide rideshare accident victims with dedicated and tenacious legal representation, ensuring you get fair value for your claim. Our San Diego rideshare 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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Rideshare Accidents: Causes and Effects in San Diego

The emergence of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft has transformed transportation in San Diego. Nationally, the ridesharing market is valued at $147.28 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. While these services offer numerous conveniences, they also introduce new challenges to road safety.

Ridesharing can reduce instances of drunk driving and provide efficient transportation solutions. However, the surge in on-demand transportation adds more vehicles to already busy streets, increasing the potential for accidents.

Many rideshare accidents stem from common driving issues, but the nature of the job introduces unique risks. Drivers often rely heavily on technology, using smartphones to manage rides and GPS for navigation. They may work irregular hours, leading to fatigue. Unlike traditional taxi drivers, rideshare drivers typically don’t receive formal training, which can result in mistakes on the road.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

  • Distracted Driving:  Managing ride requests or following GPS directions can divert attention from the road.
  • Driver Errors:  Mistakes such as improper lane changes or failure to yield.
  • Speeding:  Exceeding speed limits, especially on unfamiliar roads or in pedestrian-heavy areas.
  • Low Visibility at Night:  Challenges include reduced visibility and glare from oncoming headlights.
  • Vehicle Maintenance Issues:  Neglecting regular upkeep can lead to mechanical failures.
  • Road Conditions:  Hazards like potholes, debris, or adverse weather conditions.
  • Driver Fatigue:  Long or irregular working hours can cause drowsiness.
  • Traffic Congestion:  High-demand areas often experience heavy traffic, increasing the risk of accidents.

The consequences of these accidents can be severe, resulting in various types of collisions such as rear-end crashes, side-impact (T-bone) collisions, and head-on collisions. These incidents can lead to significant injuries or even fatalities.

If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, call Thompson Law’s San Diego rideshare accident lawyers to navigate the aftermath effectively.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in San Diego

Experiencing a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. Taking the following steps can help protect your rights and strengthen any potential claims:

  • Call 911 ASAP, especially if there are serious injuries, and ask for emergency assistance.
  • Gather information about all involved, including drivers, vehicles, passengers, and witnesses. Work with law enforcement to make sure all details are recorded accurately
  • Consult a legal professional, the right San Diego rideshare accident lawyer will guide you towards every step of the way and make sure your rights are protected.

Accurate documentation is vital in any motor vehicle accident to help ensure justice and secure rightful compensation for injuries and damages.

Common Injuries from Rideshare Accidents in San Diego

Rideshare accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-threatening conditions. Even low-speed collisions can result in serious harm, especially for passengers who may not always wear seatbelts.

Many rideshare trips happen late at night, in busy areas, or when drivers are fatigued. These conditions can make accidents more severe. If a driver is distracted or speeding to complete more trips, passengers and others on the road can suffer the consequences.

Some of the most common injuries in San Diego rideshare accidents include:

  • Cuts and bruises
  • Whiplash
  • Head injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Broken bones
  • Spinal injuries
  • Paralysis
  • Neck injuries
  • Spinal disc injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Sprains and strains
  • Muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries
  • Joint injuries and trauma
  • Internal injuries
  • Internal bleeding
  • Amputations
  • Dismemberment
  • Wrongful death

San Diego Rideshare Accident FAQs

How does the San Diego law handle rideshare accident liability?

In San Diego, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft must carry insurance for their drivers, but liability depends on when the accident happened. If a driver was not logged into the app, their personal insurance applies. If they were waiting for a ride request, en route to a passenger, or carrying a passenger, Uber or Lyft’s insurance may provide coverage. Determining who is responsible often requires reviewing app records, driver activity, and other evidence.

Can I file a claim against the rideshare company directly?

Uber and Lyft typically avoid direct responsibility by classifying drivers as independent contractors instead of employees. However, they provide insurance coverage during active rides. If you are injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver, you may be able to file a claim through the company’s insurance. A lawyer can help determine which policies apply and ensure you seek compensation from the right sources.

What should I do if I’m injured as a passenger in a rideshare accident?

If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, focus on getting medical care, make sure to document the accident, and get more information about the driver, vehicle, and witnesses. Contact a rideshare accident lawyer as soon as possible to help navigate insurance claims and secure compensation for your injuries.

Are there different insurance requirements for Uber and Lyft drivers in San Diego?

Yes. Both Uber and Lyft drivers must maintain personal auto insurance and are covered by the companies’ commercial policies while logged into the app. Coverage levels are based on whether the driver is waiting for a ride, on the way to a pickup, or actively transporting a passenger.

How long do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident in San Diego?

In San Diego, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, some cases have shorter deadlines. If a government vehicle was involved, you may have only six months to take legal action. If a minor was injured, the timeline may be extended. Missing the deadline means losing the right to seek compensation, so it’s important to act quickly.

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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.