Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in California, but accidents involving these vehicles present unique legal and insurance challenges. Unlike standard car accidents, rideshare crashes involve layered insurance policies that change depending on the driver’s status in the app. California’s specific Transportation Network Company (TNC) laws govern these situations, and recent changes in 2026 have made understanding your rights more important than ever.
At Sally Morin Law, our experienced personal injury team specializes in rideshare accidents. We help passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers recover full compensation after Uber or Lyft crashes. Our dedicated practice areas include comprehensive rideshare accident representation, backed by a proven track record of results.
California TNC Insurance Coverage Periods Explained
California law, primarily through the Public Utilities Code and CPUC regulations, breaks every rideshare trip into distinct periods with different insurance responsibilities. This structure often confuses victims and allows insurance companies to delay or minimize payouts.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
| Period | Driver Status | Liability Coverage (Primary) | Excess / Additional Coverage | Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage |
| Period 0 | App completely off | Driver’s personal auto insurance only | None from TNC | Driver’s personal policy only |
| Period 1 | App on, waiting for ride match | $50k per person / $100k per accident (bodily injury)
$30k property damage |
$200k excess liability from TNC | Limited or none from TNC |
| Period 2 | Ride accepted, heading to pickup | $1 Million primary commercial liability | Included in the $1M | Not primary |
| Period 3 | Passenger in vehicle (until drop-off) | $1 Million primary commercial liability | Included in the $1M | $60k per person / $300k per incident (reduced by SB 371 effective Jan 1, 2026; previously $1M) |
Key 2026 Update from Senate Bill 371 (SB 371):
Effective January 1, 2026, the required UM/UIM coverage during Period 3 (with a passenger inside) dropped significantly from $1 million to $60,000 per person and $300,000 per incident. This change affects passengers hit by uninsured or underinsured drivers while in an Uber or Lyft. Liability coverage when the rideshare driver is at fault remains at $1 million.
These layered policies mean multiple insurers may get involved, often leading to disputes over which policy applies and who pays what. An experienced rideshare lawyer can untangle these complexities and ensure you don’t leave money on the table.
Common Causes and Types of Rideshare Accidents in California
Rideshare accidents frequently stem from:
- Distracted driving (checking the app, navigation, or passenger communication)
- Fatigue from long hours or multi-app driving
- Speeding to complete more trips
- Reckless lane changes or failure to yield
- Poor vehicle maintenance
Victims can include:
- Rideshare passengers
- Other motorists
- Pedestrians and cyclists (common in dense urban areas like San Francisco)
- Delivery drivers in combined ride/delivery scenarios
What to Do Immediately After an Uber or Lyft Accident
- Prioritize safety and seek medical care — Get checked even for “minor” symptoms; document all injuries.
- Call police and ensure an official report notes the Uber/Lyft involvement and app status.
- Gather evidence — Take photos/videos of the scene, vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and your Uber/Lyft app showing the active ride.
- Collect driver and ride details — Screenshot the ride receipt, driver name, license plate, and insurance info from the app.
- Report to Uber/Lyft via the app, but do not give a detailed recorded statement to any insurer without legal counsel.
- Contact a rideshare-specialized attorney promptly — Evidence (like app data) can disappear quickly.
Helpful Video Resource:
“What To Do After an Uber Accident?” – Practical, expert-guided steps every victim should know.
Featured Settlement: $700,000 Recovery for Pedestrian Hit by Distracted Driver
Sally Morin Law recently secured a $700,000 settlement for a 62-year-old San Francisco pedestrian struck in a marked crosswalk by a distracted driver. The client suffered severe leg fractures requiring multiple surgeries and extended rehabilitation. Our team maximized both the primary auto policy and umbrella coverage, aggressively negotiated lien reductions, and ensured the client received substantial net compensation for pain, lost wages, and future medical needs.
View more successful results.
Real Client Testimonials
“This team was excellent to work with and truly provided an unbelievable service when I was going through a very difficult recovery. They made sure I fully understood every part of the process… I absolutely recommend them.”
Read Devin T.‘s review of Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers on Yelp
“I was involved in a personal injury case and had Rebecca, who was great. She was very professional, quick and responsive… the entire process was very smooth and straightforward.”
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Not Sure If You Have a Case? Check Instantly
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Personal Injury Settlement Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions About California Rideshare Accidents
Q: Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
A: Typically, claims are handled through their insurance policies, but in cases of negligence in driver screening, training, or other corporate failures, direct claims against the company may be possible.
Q: What if the driver was not logged into the app?
A: Only the driver’s personal insurance applies, which usually has much lower limits. We investigate all possible coverage sources.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim in California?
A: The statute of limitations is generally 2 years from the accident date. Acting quickly preserves evidence and witness testimony.
Q: Do I pay anything upfront for legal help?
A: No. We work on a contingency fee basis—you only pay if we recover compensation for you.
Q: How does the 2026 UM/UIM reduction affect my claim?
A: It lowers protection when another uninsured driver causes the crash while you’re a passenger. This makes it even more critical to explore all available policies and third-party liability.
Ready to Protect Your Rights and Maximize Your Recovery?
Insurance companies for Uber, Lyft, and other parties will move quickly to limit their payout. Don’t navigate this complex process alone. The attorneys at Sally Morin Law understand the nuances of California rideshare law, including the impact of SB 371, and have the experience to fight for the full compensation you deserve—covering medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Take the first step toward recovery today.
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Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers – Trusted advocates for Uber and Lyft accident victims throughout California.
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