Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are common throughout Fresno, from downtown to residential neighborhoods and Highway 99 corridors. But when a crash happens, determining who is legally responsible can be confusing. Liability in rideshare accidents is not always straightforward. A skilled Fresno injury lawyer can help identify the responsible party and ensure you pursue compensation from the correct insurance source.
Rideshare accident claims often involve layered insurance policies, independent contractor classifications, and multiple potentially liable drivers.
Is the Uber or Lyft Driver Responsible?
If the rideshare driver caused the crash through negligence — such as speeding, distracted driving, unsafe lane changes, or failure to yield — they may be held liable.
However, rideshare drivers are generally classified as independent contractors, not employees. This classification affects how liability is structured. While the driver may be personally negligent, rideshare companies typically provide commercial insurance coverage that applies during active trips.
Determining whether the driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger is critical. Insurance coverage changes based on driver status at the time of the crash.
When Does Uber or Lyft Insurance Apply?
Rideshare companies carry tiered insurance coverage:
- Driver offline: The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
- Driver logged in but waiting for a ride request: Limited rideshare liability coverage applies.
- Driver en route to pick up a passenger or actively transporting a passenger: Full commercial coverage typically applies.
A knowledgeable Fresno injury lawyer will obtain trip records and app data to confirm the driver’s status at the time of the collision. This step is essential because insurance companies may dispute which policy applies.
What If Another Driver Caused the Accident?
In many Fresno rideshare crashes, another motorist is at fault. If a third-party driver caused the accident, their liability insurance is usually the primary source of compensation.
If that driver is uninsured or underinsured, Uber or Lyft’s uninsured motorist coverage may provide additional protection for passengers. Injured individuals may also rely on their own uninsured motorist policies in some cases.
Identifying every available insurance policy can significantly affect the total recovery.
Can Uber or Lyft Be Directly Sued?
Because rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors, Uber and Lyft often argue they are not directly responsible for driver negligence.
However, rideshare companies may still face liability in certain circumstances, such as:
- Failure to properly screen drivers
- Allowing unsafe drivers to remain active
- Failing to maintain required insurance coverage
- Technology or app-related safety failures
Each case depends on specific facts. Corporate liability claims often require deeper investigation into company safety practices.
What If You Were a Passenger?
Passengers injured in rideshare vehicles are rarely at fault. If you were injured as a passenger, you may be able to pursue compensation from:
- The rideshare driver’s commercial insurance
- A third-party driver’s insurance
- Uninsured or underinsured coverage
- Potential corporate liability sources
Because passengers typically have no control over vehicle operation, liability often rests with one or more drivers involved in the crash.
Common Rideshare Accident Injuries
Uber and Lyft crashes can cause serious injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Broken bones
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage
- Internal injuries
Medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation, and long-term disability may all factor into the value of a claim.
Why These Cases Are More Complex
Rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurance carriers disputing responsibility. Each insurer may attempt to shift blame to reduce its payout.
Digital evidence — including trip logs, GPS tracking, and app activity — becomes crucial. Early investigation helps preserve this information before it is lost.
A skilled Fresno injury lawyer understands how to coordinate with multiple insurers and prevent delays that harm injury victims.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Depending on the severity of your injuries and the available insurance coverage, you may recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
Because Fresno sees both local and highway rideshare traffic, accident severity can vary widely. Serious collisions often require aggressive legal representation to secure fair compensation.
California Comparative Fault Rules
California follows pure comparative negligence. Even if you were partially at fault — for example, as another driver involved in the crash — you may still recover damages, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Insurance companies frequently attempt to assign unfair fault to reduce settlements. Strong legal advocacy protects your claim.
Why a Fresno Injury Lawyer Can Help After an Uber or Lyft Crash
Rideshare accident claims require careful analysis of insurance layers, driver status, and corporate policies. A knowledgeable Fresno injury lawyer investigates liability, preserves digital evidence, and negotiates with multiple insurance companies to pursue full compensation.
At Bojat Law Group, we represent victims injured in Uber and Lyft accidents throughout Fresno. Our team handles complex insurance disputes and fights to recover compensation that reflects the full impact of your injuries.
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, call (818) 877-4878 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.