Newport Beach, CA — Avrek Law Firm, a trusted rideshare accident lawyer in Newport Beach, understands the challenges involved in accidents with Uber or Lyft vehicles. While rideshare services offer convenience, these accidents can create complex legal and insurance issues, especially concerning medical bill coverage. Determining responsibility—whether you're a passenger, another motorist, or a pedestrian—is crucial to protecting your rights.
Who Pays for Your Medical Bills After a Rideshare Accident in Newport Beach?
Rideshare Insurance Coverage Explained
Rideshare accident lawyers understand that these cases differ significantly from standard car accidents due to the multiple layers of insurance involved. The rideshare company’s insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident—whether the driver was actively using the app, transporting a passenger, or off-duty.
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App Off (Driver Not Logged Into the App):
When the rideshare driver is not logged into the app, they are operating as a private citizen, and their personal auto insurance policy applies. In this case, the driver’s personal insurance would typically cover any injuries, but this could be problematic if the driver’s policy doesn’t cover the accident or if they lack sufficient coverage.
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App On, No Passenger Assigned:
If the driver is logged into the app but hasn't accepted a ride request yet, they are covered by a limited liability insurance policy provided by Uber or Lyft. This coverage typically offers $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. While this coverage exists, it may not be enough to cover serious medical expenses in an accident.
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En Route or Passenger Onboard:
When the driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle, the rideshare company’s full liability insurance applies. Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, which includes both injury and property damage. Additionally, the coverage includes uninsured/underinsured motorist protection in case another driver is at fault but doesn’t have enough insurance.
Who Pays for Medical Bills in Different Scenarios?
- As a Rideshare Passenger: If you were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle that was involved in an accident, the rideshare company’s $1 million liability insurance would typically cover your medical expenses. If another vehicle was involved and the other driver was at fault, their insurance may also come into play. If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company’s coverage may compensate for your medical bills.
- As a Pedestrian or Cyclist: If you were a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a rideshare vehicle in Newport Beach, the rideshare driver’s insurance may cover your medical expenses, depending on the driver’s app status at the time of the accident. If the driver was logged into the app and actively driving for Uber or Lyft, the rideshare company’s $1 million liability insurance should cover your medical bills. If the driver was not logged in at the time of the accident, you may need to rely on the driver’s personal auto insurance or your own health insurance.
- As Another Driver Involved in the Accident: If you were in another vehicle and were struck by a rideshare driver, the type of insurance that covers your medical bills depends on the driver's app status. If the driver was in “driver mode” (i.e., with a passenger or en route to pick one up), their rideshare insurance will likely cover your injuries. However, if the driver was not on duty (app off or waiting for a passenger), the driver’s personal auto insurance will be the primary coverage.
Avrek Law Firm: Rideshare Accident Lawyers
The personal injury attorneys at Avrek Law Firm bring extensive experience to rideshare accident cases in Newport Beach. They are well-versed in handling the unique complexities of these incidents, including identifying applicable insurance policies and negotiating fair settlements. For those injured in Uber or Lyft accidents, Avrek Law Firm's rideshare accident attorneys (Uber accident lawyers or Lyft accident lawyers) work to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses.
Rideshare companies may have multiple insurance policies, and their insurance providers may try to avoid liability. That’s why it’s crucial to work with the best rideshare accident lawyer in Newport Beach to make sure you’re treated fairly throughout the claims process. Contact Avrek Law Firm today at (800) 800-9828 for a free consultation and let their experienced team help you manage the complexities of rideshare accident claims.
About Avrek Law Firm
Founded in 1998 by Maryam Parman, widely recognized as the "Super Woman Super Lawyer," Avrek Law Firm has established itself as a leading personal injury practice with a client-focused approach. With a 99% success rate and over $1 billion recovered for clients, the firm handles more than 300 cases monthly, including complex injury claims. Avrek Law emphasizes clear communication and reflects California’s diverse community. As a female-led firm, it is committed to strong advocacy and delivering the best possible outcomes for its clients.
