The rise of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft has transformed how people get around Glendale and the greater Los Angeles area. Every day, thousands of drivers hit the road—picking up passengers in neighborhoods like Adams Hill, Chevy Chase Canyon, and downtown Glendale. While these driving gigs offer flexible income, they also come with real risks, especially when it comes to traffic accidents and personal injury.
As a rideshare driver, your job puts you in high-traffic areas, unfamiliar neighborhoods, and on the road for long hours—often late at night or during high-stress peak times. And when an accident happens, you may quickly realize that getting the help and compensation you deserve isn’t as straightforward as it should be.
Insurance companies, Uber and Lyft policies, and independent contractor rules often complicate or delay injury claims, leaving drivers stuck with medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about their legal rights.
At Tim D. Wright Law, we understand the unique legal and financial challenges that rideshare drivers face after a crash—whether you were hit by another driver, your passenger caused a distraction, or you were involved in a rideshare-related incident that wasn’t your fault.
We’re not just here to file paperwork—we’re here to fight for you, provide clear legal guidance, and make sure you get the compensation you’re legally entitled to.
While Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, that does not mean you’re left unprotected after a crash. In fact, both companies provide insurance coverage when you're using the app—though how much and when it applies depends on the timing of the accident (more on that in Section 4).
The key takeaway? You are not automatically on your own. There are built-in protections, and with the right legal strategy, you can pursue compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and lost income.
Both Uber and Lyft offer tiered insurance policies, which kick in during different “periods” of your driving activity:
This is a gray area—but not a dead end.
Thanks to California laws like AB5 and the passage of Prop 22, some injured Uber and Lyft drivers may qualify for limited employment benefits, including:
If you were hit by another negligent driver while working—whether you were en route to a passenger, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting someone—you may be able to file a personal injury claim against that driver’s insurance company.
In these cases, you can pursue compensation for:
This type of claim is separate from Uber/Lyft’s coverage and allows you to seek damages directly from the at-fault party.
Coverage Status:
What’s Covered:
What’s NOT Covered:
This is often the least protective coverage window, and drivers may be shocked to learn how limited their rights are during this period—especially if their personal auto policy denies the claim due to commercial use.
Coverage Status:
Once you’ve accepted a ride request and are driving to pick up the passenger, Uber and Lyft provide much stronger coverage.
What’s Covered:
Coverage Status:
Once a passenger is in your car, Uber and Lyft provide their highest level of insurance coverage.
What’s Covered:
Uber and Lyft will only activate coverage if you were actively using the app at the time of the crash. If your app was closed, or if you were taking a break, you may need to rely entirely on your personal insurance—which often won’t cover commercial driving activities.
That’s why it’s so important to:
Always prioritize your health and the safety of others. Even if injuries seem minor, call 911 to report the crash and request medical assistance.
Both Uber and Lyft have in-app features that allow you to report a crash directly. You should:
This step triggers the company’s internal claims process and helps preserve your eligibility for coverage.
If you’re physically able, collect visual and written evidence at the accident scene. This can be crucial later when dealing with insurance adjusters or pursuing legal action.
Take photos of:
Make sure to collect contact details from:
You may be contacted by:
Do not give recorded statements or sign any documents without first consulting an attorney. Insurance companies are skilled at minimizing payouts and may use your words against you.
The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. An experienced rideshare accident attorney can:
At Tim D. Wright Law, we understand the complexities of rideshare accident claims and provide personalized, local legal support for injured drivers throughout Glendale and nearby communities.
As a rideshare driver, you spend countless hours helping others get where they need to go. But when you’re the one injured on the job, it can feel like no one’s looking out for you. Uber and Lyft may offer some insurance coverage, but make no mistake—they are businesses protecting their bottom line, not yours.
The truth is, rideshare drivers deserve real protection, and when an accident happens, you need someone who understands the system and knows how to fight for your best interests. Don’t leave your future in the hands of Uber, Lyft, or their insurance companies.
At Tim D. Wright Law, we know how to handle rideshare accident claims in California—and we’re proud to serve drivers in Glendale and throughout the San Fernando Valley. Whether you’re recovering from injuries, missing income, or unsure which insurance applies, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
📍 Van Nuys Office:
16555 Sherman Way, Suite B2, Van Nuys, CA 91406
📍 Burbank Office:
1112 W. Burbank Blvd., Suite 302, Burbank, CA 91506
📞 Phone: (818) 428-1080 | (323) 379-9995
📧 Email: firm@timwrightlaw.com
🌐 Website: www.timwrightlaw.com
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
