Ride Share Accidents
INJURED IN UBER/LYFT RIDE SHARE ACCIDENT?
Getting across Los Angeles in a hurry often means turning to rideshare services like Uber. With heavy traffic and long distances, Uber offers a convenient alternative to driving yourself or navigating the city’s public transportation system. However, while Uber may be fast and easy, it isn’t always the safest option.
Unlike traditional taxi drivers, Uber drivers are not required to undergo specialized training or extensive screening. Many are simply everyday individuals using their personal vehicles to earn extra income. Unfortunately, this lack of formal training—combined with the pressure to complete trips quickly and maximize earnings—can lead to risky driving behavior. Speeding, distracted driving, and unfamiliarity with the area are all common causes of rideshare accidents in Los Angeles.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving an Uber vehicle, it’s important to understand your rights. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. But securing that compensation is not always straightforward.
Rideshare accidents can involve complex legal issues, including questions about insurance coverage, liability, and whether the driver was actively working for Uber at the time of the crash. That’s why it’s essential to have a knowledgeable and experienced legal team on your side
At GOODMAN SULLIVAN LAW, we represent individuals who’ve been injured in Uber and other rideshare accidents throughout the Los Angeles area. Our attorneys are well-versed in California’s rideshare laws and have a deep understanding of how to deal with large insurance companies and corporate legal teams.
When you work with us, we will:
- Thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident
- Identify all liable parties, including the driver and Uber itself
- Handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf
- Fight for the maximum compensation you are legally entitled to
We understand how stressful it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident—especially one involving a major company like Uber. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, personalized service while aggressively pursuing justice for our clients.
Don’t wait to take action. California law places strict time limits on filing personal injury
claims. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building your case.
Common Causes of Ride Share Accidents in Los Angeles
With thousands of ride share vehicles on the roads at any given time, accidents are an unfortunate—but regular—occurrence in Los Angeles. While rideshare services offer convenience, the sheer volume of drivers and the unique pressures of the job create conditions that can lead to collisions and injuries
Distracted Driver
Ride Share drivers frequently rely on their smartphones for directions, ride requests, and communication with passengers. This constant interaction with mobile devices often takes their eyes—and attention—off the road. Whether it’s checking the GPS, accepting a new ride, or reading a message, these split-second distractions can easily result in rear-end collisions, missed stop signs, or striking pedestrians in crosswalks
Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Ride share drivers are paid per trip, which creates a strong incentive to complete rides quickly and fit in as many as possible in a short amount of time. This pressure can lead to dangerous driving behavior, such as:
- Speeding through yellow lights
- Rolling through stop signs
- Weaving through traffic
- Failing to signal when changing lanes
These actions dramatically increase the risk of a crash, particularly in a city with traffic as dense and unpredictable as Los Angeles.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Unlike licensed taxi companies, ride share companies do not routinely inspect or maintain its drivers’ vehicles. That responsibility falls entirely on the individual driver. As a result, some rideshare vehicles may be operating with:
- Worn-out brakes
- Bald tires
- Broken headlights
- Faulty steering or suspension systems
Driving Under the Influence
Although Uber/Lyft and other ride share companies have policies against driving under the influence, enforcement largely depends on self-reporting and rider complaints. Unfortunately, there have been cases where Uber/Lyft and other ride share companies drivers operate their vehicles while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Driving under the influence significantly reduces reaction time, judgment, and coordination—putting passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers in danger. A poorly maintained car is more likely to break down or fail during operation, leading to preventable accidents.
Injured in an Accident? Get the Answers and Compensation You Deserve.
No matter how your accident happened, you deserve answers—and possibly compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
