Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have changed how people move around Santa Ana — offering convenience, affordability, and accessibility. But when an Uber or Lyft driver is involved in a crash, things can get complicated fast.
Victims often find themselves asking: Who’s responsible for my medical bills? Whose insurance covers me? Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
At Krolikowski Law, we help victims of rideshare accidents in Santa Ana, California, navigate the confusing insurance and legal process. Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, our uber & lyft accident lawyers in Santa Ana, California will fight to protect your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Why Uber and Lyft Accidents Are Different
Rideshare accidents involve more than just two drivers exchanging insurance information. Because Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, not direct employees, determining who pays for your injuries can be tricky.
These cases often involve multiple insurance policies, complex corporate rules, and finger-pointing between the driver and the rideshare company.
That’s where Krolikowski Law steps in. We know how to investigate these cases, hold negligent parties accountable, and deal with insurance companies that try to avoid paying fair compensation.
Who Is Liable After a Rideshare Accident?
Responsibility in an Uber or Lyft accident depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. Here’s how liability usually works under California law:
1. The Driver Was Not Logged Into the App
If the Uber or Lyft driver wasn’t logged into the app at the time of the accident, they’re treated like any other driver. Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies — Uber or Lyft’s insurance won’t cover the crash.
2. The Driver Was Logged In and Waiting for a Ride Request
When the app is on but the driver hasn’t accepted a trip, limited coverage from Uber or Lyft applies:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury total
- $25,000 for property damage
This covers victims if the driver’s personal policy doesn’t fully cover your losses.
3. The Driver Was En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or Carrying One
When a driver is on their way to pick up a rider or actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in third-party liability coverage.
They may also offer:
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage for vehicle damage
This is the highest coverage level and typically applies when passengers or others are injured during an active trip.
4. The Crash Involved Another Negligent Driver
If another motorist caused the collision (for example, by running a red light or rear-ending an Uber), that driver’s insurance is responsible. However, if they’re uninsured or underinsured, Uber or Lyft’s $1 million UM/UIM coverage may still apply.
Every case depends on specific facts, so our Santa Ana uber & lyft accident lawyers will carefully analyze which insurance policies apply to your situation — and pursue every available source of compensation.
Common Causes of Uber & Lyft Accidents
Even with GPS technology and strict driver screening, rideshare crashes happen daily in Santa Ana. The most common causes include:
- Distracted driving (checking the app, texting, or using GPS)
- Speeding to pick up more passengers or reach destinations faster
- Fatigued driving from long shifts or multiple jobs
- Unsafe lane changes or turns
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Driving under the influence
- Reckless driving during passenger drop-offs or pickups
- Inexperienced or unqualified drivers
At Krolikowski Law, we know how to investigate these crashes, identify negligence, and prove who is at fault — even when rideshare companies try to shift the blame.
Common Injuries in Uber and Lyft Accidents
Because rideshare accidents can happen at high speeds or in congested traffic, victims often suffer severe injuries, such as:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Severe cuts, bruises, or burns
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
Whether your injuries are mild or life-altering, you shouldn’t have to face mounting medical bills and lost income alone. Our uber & lyft accident lawyers in Santa Ana, California will pursue compensation for all your losses.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
In an Uber or Lyft accident case, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages:
Economic Damages
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Emergency room care and hospitalization
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
- Transportation costs to medical appointments
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement or scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)
Punitive Damages
If the driver acted with extreme negligence — such as drunk or distracted driving — punitive damages may apply to punish wrongdoing and deter future misconduct.
At Krolikowski Law, we assess the full impact of your injuries — not just immediate costs — to ensure your compensation reflects your true recovery needs.
How Uber and Lyft Try to Limit Liability
Uber and Lyft advertise convenience and safety, but when accidents happen, they often act fast to distance themselves. Both companies classify drivers as independent contractors, not employees, to reduce legal exposure.
This allows them to argue that they aren’t directly responsible for crashes caused by drivers — even though they profit from those same drivers’ work.
Their insurance carriers also fight aggressively to:
- Deny claims by arguing the driver was “off duty”
- Delay payments or shift blame to other parties
- Offer quick, low settlements before victims understand their rights
Krolikowski Law has extensive experience dealing with corporate insurers and legal teams. We know their tactics — and how to counter them effectively.
Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you were injured in a rideshare accident in Santa Ana, these steps can help protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911 immediately. Report the crash to the police and request medical help.
- Get medical attention, even if injuries seem minor — some symptoms appear later.
- Gather information:
- Driver’s name, contact info, and license plate
- Uber or Lyft app screenshot showing your ride details
- Contact info for witnesses
- Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and visible injuries.
- Do not discuss fault with the driver, police, or insurers.
- Report the crash through the Uber or Lyft app (document that you did).
- Contact Krolikowski Law before speaking with any insurance representative.
The sooner you involve an uber & lyft accident Lawyer, the stronger your case will be — especially since rideshare companies often move quickly to protect their interests.
How Krolikowski Law Helps Victims of Uber and Lyft Accidents
When you hire Krolikowski Law, you get a local team that understands the unique challenges of rideshare claims. We handle every detail from start to finish so you can focus on recovery.
Our process includes:
- Free consultation: We review your case and explain your rights.
- Comprehensive investigation: We collect evidence, driver history, and accident reports.
- Insurance claim coordination: We determine which policies apply and file all necessary claims.
- Medical documentation: We work with doctors and experts to value your treatment and long-term care.
- Aggressive negotiation: We handle insurers who try to minimize payouts.
- Litigation: If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court.
You pay nothing upfront — we work on a contingency fee, meaning we only get paid if we win compensation for you.
Why Choose Krolikowski Law?
Victims throughout Santa Ana choose Krolikowski Law because we combine compassionate support with aggressive representation.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Local Focus: We know Santa Ana roads, intersections, and courts — from Main Street to Bristol and beyond.
- Direct Attorney Access: You’ll always speak with your lawyer, not just case staff.
- Proven Results: We’ve recovered compensation for victims across Orange County.
- Client-Centered Approach: We treat every client with respect, transparency, and personal care.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We fight hard, and you pay nothing unless we secure your recovery.
When you’ve been hurt because of someone else’s negligence, you deserve a law firm that’s both compassionate and relentless. That’s Krolikowski Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I was a passenger in the Uber or Lyft during the crash?
A: You may be covered under the rideshare company’s $1 million liability policy if the driver was logged in and transporting you. We’ll help you file the claim and negotiate with insurers.
Q: Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
A: In most cases, rideshare companies claim they aren’t responsible because drivers are independent contractors. However, lawsuits may be possible if the company was negligent in hiring, training, or supervising the driver.
Q: What if I were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver as a pedestrian or cyclist?
A: You may still have a claim under the driver’s or rideshare company’s policy, depending on whether the driver was logged into the app at the time.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: California’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the accident date. Claims involving city or state vehicles (like road defects) may have shorter deadlines.
Q: Do I need a lawyer for an Uber or Lyft accident?
A: Absolutely. Rideshare claims involve multiple insurance companies and legal complexities. Having a lawyer ensures you don’t accept less than your case is worth.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Rideshare companies move fast after an accident — sometimes before victims even leave the hospital. They may send investigators or contact you directly, hoping you’ll give a statement they can use to reduce their liability.
Contacting Krolikowski Law immediately allows us to:
- Preserve crucial evidence (vehicle data, GPS logs, dashcam footage)
- Obtain accident reports and witness statements
- File timely claims before legal deadlines expire
- Prevent insurers from taking advantage of you
The earlier you involve an uber & lyft accident lawyer, the stronger your position will be.
The Legal Process: What to Expect
- Consultation: We discuss your accident, injuries, and next steps.
- Investigation: We gather evidence and determine all liable parties.
- Claim Filing: We submit detailed claims to all relevant insurers.
- Negotiation: We work to reach a fair settlement that reflects your true losses.
- Litigation (if needed): If the insurance companies refuse to be fair, we’re ready to take your case to trial.
- Resolution: You receive compensation — and peace of mind.
You’ll stay informed every step of the way. We’re not just your lawyers — we’re your partners in recovery.
The Reality of Rideshare Crashes in Santa Ana
Santa Ana’s heavy traffic, busy intersections, and growing rideshare use make these accidents increasingly common. Whether it happens on the I-5, Harbor Boulevard, or near MainPlace Mall, these crashes can turn an ordinary day into a nightmare.
Many victims face not only physical pain but also financial stress, anxiety, and confusion about who will pay for their medical care. Krolikowski Law ensures you’re never left guessing. We handle the entire legal process with compassion and precision.
Contact an Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer in Santa Ana, California
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. You deserve clarity, accountability, and compensation for what you’ve lost.
At Krolikowski Law, our uber & lyft accident lawyers in Santa Ana, California, fight tirelessly for victims hurt by negligent drivers and corporations that try to avoid responsibility.
Call Krolikowski Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
We’re available 24/7 and charge no fees unless we win.
Let our team handle the legal battle — while you focus on healing.