Ventura Rideshare Accident Attorney

Pursuing Fair Compensation in Rideshare Accident Claims in Ventura

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are a way of life in Ventura. While we count on these companies for driving services, they are not immune to being involved in serious or fatal accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries when a passenger of a rideshare service, the process of filing a claim or lawsuit can be surprisingly complicated.

How To File a Claim in a Rideshare Accident in Ventura?

Rideshare drivers who work for Uber or Lyft are contractors, not employees. The rideshare company covers the insurance for the driver – but only when the driver is actively involved in picking up or dropping off a passenger. When they are not, the driver’s auto insurance comes into play. The first step in filing a claim is to establish that the vehicle was covered by the insurance provided by Uber or Lyft. The data from the rideshare app may be needed to support a claim or lawsuit.

Rideshare accidents involve unique insurance questions, as the drivers use their personal vehicles for commercial purposes. Coverage depends on whether the rideshare app (such as Uber or Lyft) was in use at the time of the accident. The company uses this process to determine whether the driver was covered:

When the Rideshare App is Off: If a driver is not logged into the app, they are considered to be operating as a private driver, and their personal auto insurance policy applies. Rideshare companies provide no coverage in accidents that occur while the rideshare app is off.

When the App is On, but No Ride Has Been Accepted: If the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, both Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage:

$50,000 per person for bodily injury
$100,000 per accident for bodily injury
$25,000 for property damage

This coverage only applies if the driver’s insurance denies a claim. Many individual auto insurance policies exclude coverage for commercial driving, which can create gaps in coverage.

When a Ride Has Been Accepted, or a Passenger is Onboard: Once the driver accepts a ride request and is en route to pick up a passenger—or has an active ride—Uber and Lyft provide full commercial coverage:

$1 million in third-party liability coverage
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (varies by state)
Contingent collision and comprehensive coverage (if the driver has personal collision/comprehensive coverage, the rideshare company will cover damage to the vehicle after a deductible is paid)

If Another Driver is at Fault: If another motorist caused the accident, their insurance should cover damages. However, if they are uninsured or underinsured, Uber and Lyft’s uninsured motorist coverage may help compensate for injuries and damages.

Navigating insurance claims for rideshare accidents is generally a more complicated process than other types of collisions. If you were injured in a rideshare accident—whether as a driver, passenger, or another motorist—Skinner Law Corp can help. Contact us to discuss your case, find out about your legal options, and learn what we could do to maximize your compensation.

Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Ventura

Rideshare drivers are regular citizens who have chosen to use their vehicles to make money, whether as their primary source of income or as a second job. Like other drivers, they must deal with various traffic challenges and could drive negligently, causing an injury or accident. Some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents in Ventura include the following:

Distracted Driving – Rideshare drivers frequently check the app for ride requests, use GPS navigation provided by the rideshare company, and communicate with passengers, all limiting the attention they put on the road ahead.
Fatigue and Long Hours – Many rideshare drivers work long shifts or drive late at night to maximize earnings, leading to fatigue, slower reaction times, and an increased risk of accidents.
Speeding and Reckless Driving – To complete more rides and earn more money, some rideshare drivers speed, make unsafe lane changes, or drive aggressively, putting passengers and others at risk.
Unfamiliar Routes and Sudden Stops – Drivers may be unfamiliar with Ventura’s roads and rely heavily on GPS, leading to sudden stops, last-minute turns, or abrupt lane changes that can cause accidents.
Failure to Yield – Rideshare drivers often pick up and drop off passengers in busy areas, sometimes ignoring right-of-way rules or stopping in unsafe locations, leading to collisions.
Passenger Distractions – Conversations, loud music, and unexpected passenger behavior can distract drivers and increase the likelihood of an accident.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Since Uber and Lyft drivers use their own cars, they are responsible for maintenance. Neglected brakes, worn tires, or other mechanical issues can contribute to accidents.
Driving Under the Influence – While rare, some rideshare drivers or other motorists on the road may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leading to serious collisions.
Hazardous Road Conditions – Poorly lit streets, potholes, construction zones, and wet or slippery roads in Ventura can make driving more dangerous, especially for drivers unfamiliar with the area.
Other Drivers’ Negligence – Not all rideshare accidents are caused by Uber or Lyft drivers. Other motorists may drive recklessly, leading to collisions involving rideshare vehicles.

Rideshare accidents can result in serious injuries and complicated insurance claims. If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident as a passenger, driver, or another motorist, Skinner Law Corp can help. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Serious and Catastrophic Injuries: Rideshare Accident Claims

Car accidents continue to be one of the top causes of death and serious injury in the country, and Ventura has its fair share of serious vehicle accidents, some of which involve rideshare drivers. The California Office of Traffic Safety has issued statistics from a recent year revealing the shocking numbers of crashes in Ventura County, many of which caused catastrophic or fatal injuries:

Total Fatal and Injury Crashes: 1217, more than three each day
Motorcycle Accidents: 45
Pedestrian Accidents: 72
Bicycle Accidents: 59

The majority of these collisions are reported as being speed-related.

The types of injuries sustained can range from minor scratches and bruises to life-altering or fatal injuries, including the following:

Traumatic brain injuries: A TBI can be a life-altering event, affecting cognition, mobility, and the ability to work or enjoy life.
Spinal cord injuries: An impact with another vehicle or a stationary object can injure the spinal cord, causing paralysis, including paraplegia and quadriplegia, which will require a lifetime of care at a high cost.
Fractures: Severe fractures can affect mobility and quality of life and may lead to permanent impairments.
Internal injuries: The impact of a rideshare accident may cause internal injuries that will require immediate medical intervention to attempt to preserve life.
Disfiguring injuries: Lacerations to the face can leave a rideshare passenger permanently disfigured, with long-term consequences.
Soft tissue injuries: When the muscles, ligaments, and tendons have been damaged, it may require many months to recover and to be able to live life without ongoing pain.

FAQ: Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Ventura

Who is liable for a rideshare accident?

Liability in a rideshare accident depends on the circumstances of the crash. Possible at-fault parties include:

The Uber or Lyft driver (if they were negligent or reckless).
Another motorist who caused the accident.
Uber or Lyft’s insurance (if the driver was actively working at the time).
Vehicle manufacturers (if a defect contributed to the crash).

Determining fault in rideshare accidents can be complex, but we can conduct a thorough investigation to ensure the party responsible is held accountable for your injuries.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft after an accident?

Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, which limits their direct liability for accidents. However, both companies provide insurance coverage up to $1 million, which can compensate victims. In rare cases, if Uber or Lyft engaged in negligence, such as failing to vet a driver, a lawsuit against the company could be possible. Our legal team will explore all avenues to maximize your compensation.

What compensation can I recover after a rideshare accident?

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation).
Lost wages (current and future earnings lost due to the accident).
Pain and suffering (physical and emotional trauma).
Property damage (repair or replacement of your vehicle).
Wrongful death damages (for families who have lost a loved one).

Our personal injury lawyer can fight to ensure you receive all the financial compensation you deserve.

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

California’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. However, the deadline may be shorter if the claim involves a government entity. Fast action is essential, as evidence can disappear, and insurance companies may delay valid claims. Contact us todayy for a consultation to protect your rights and ensure your claim is filed on time.

Why Choose Skinner Law Corp for a Rideshare Accident Claim in Ventura?

At Skinner Law Corp, we understand the challenges victims face when dealing with Uber, Lyft, and their insurance companies, which may not be exceptionally responsive or could make a lowball settlement offer. Whether you were a passenger, driver, or another motorist injured in a rideshare accident, our firm is committed to fighting for your rights and seeking the maximum compensation you deserve. Here’s why we are the right choice for your case:

Extensive Experience in Rideshare Accident Cases – We have in-depth knowledge of the unique legal and insurance issues surrounding Uber and Lyft accidents and how to navigate these cases effectively.
Aggressive Insurance Negotiation – Rideshare companies and their insurers often try to minimize payouts. We fight back aggressively to ensure you receive full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Proven Track Record of Success – Our firm has secured significant settlements and verdicts for accident victims, helping them move forward with financial stability.
Personalized Legal Representation – We treat every client with the attention and respect they deserve, keeping you informed and involved throughout the legal process.
No Fees Unless We Win – We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees until we win your case.
Trial-Tested Litigation – While we strive for fair settlements, we are prepared to take your case to court if necessary to secure the best possible outcome.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident in Ventura, don’t face the legal battle alone. Contact Skinner Law Corp at 310-356-0074 today for a consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.