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In Ontario, CA, many individuals depend on rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft for transportation to work, the airport, or home after social outings. With the increasing number of rideshare vehicles on the roads, especially around busy areas like Ontario Mills, ONT Airport, and Downtown Ontario, it's crucial to acknowledge the higher likelihood of rideshare-related accidents.
If you find yourself injured in a rideshare incident, you might be wondering about responsibility:
Who is liable?
Is it the driver, the rideshare company, or perhaps a third party?
Understanding these responsibilities is vital, as the answers can be complex in rideshare situations. Rideshare accidents present unique legal challenges, including distinct insurance policies and the fact that drivers are considered "independent contractors." Companies like Uber and Lyft often seek to limit their liability when accidents occur, which can complicate the claims process.
Whether you are a passenger, a rideshare driver, another driver involved in a collision with Uber or Lyft, or a pedestrian injured in an accident, navigating the claims process requires expertise. That’s why consulting with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer in Ontario is essential. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping injured individuals hold negligent drivers and rideshare companies accountable. Our team is skilled in understanding the intricacies of Uber and Lyft’s insurance systems, negotiating against lowball offers, and striving to secure the full compensation you deserve.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how people move around Ontario, CA. From late-night pickups near Ontario Mills to airport runs from Ontario International Airport to daily rides through neighborhoods along Vineyard Avenue or Holt Boulevard, rideshare vehicles are now constantly on our streets.
As their popularity grows, so does the number of accidents involving them.
The combination of high rideshare volume, distracted driving, and complex traffic patterns in Ontario has created a noticeable increase in collisions involving Uber and Lyft vehicles. These crashes can involve:
Unlike traditional car crashes, rideshare accidents raise unique legal questions. Who was logged into the app at the time of the accident? Was it a ride in progress? Which insurance policy applies to Uber/Lyft’s driver coverage, or both?
Adding to the confusion, rideshare drivers often work long hours, drive unfamiliar routes, or rely heavily on navigation apps. These factors can increase the risk of distracted driving and slow reaction times, especially in congested zones like downtown Ontario or freeway entrances.
As the number of rideshare vehicles on Ontario roads continues to grow, so does the need for accountability when crashes happen. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Ontario, working with a rideshare accident lawyer in Ontario is the best way to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Rideshare accidents don’t just affect passengers. Many people injured in Uber and Lyft-related collisions aren’t even inside the rideshare vehicle when the crash occurs. Fortunately, California law allows several categories of individuals to file a rideshare crash claim in Ontario, depending on how and when the accident occurred.
Here’s who may be eligible to pursue a personal injury claim:
If you were riding in an Uber or Lyft and were injured due to a crash, regardless of who was at fault, you can file a claim. Uber and Lyft carry $1 million in liability coverage when a trip is in progress, which may cover your injuries.
If you were driving your car and were struck by an on-duty Uber or Lyft driver, you can file a claim against that driver and, in some instances, against the rideshare company’s insurance.
If you were hit by a rideshare vehicle while walking, jogging, or biking, such as during a pickup or drop-off, you may be entitled to compensation, especially if the driver was actively working in the app at the time.
Even rideshare drivers themselves can file claims if they are hit by another negligent driver while actively using the app. Coverage will depend on whether the app was on and if a trip was in progress.
Each scenario has unique insurance rules and liability questions. A knowledgeable rideshare accident lawyer in Ontario can investigate your case, determine coverage eligibility, and make sure your rights are fully protected from the start.
One of the most confusing aspects of any rideshare crash claim in Ontario is the question of insurance. Uber and Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees, which means liability coverage depends heavily on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the accident.
Here’s how rideshare insurance works in California:
If the rideshare driver is not logged into the app, Uber and Lyft provide no coverage. Any accident that occurs during this time is handled solely through the driver’s auto insurance policy.
If the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage:
This applies only if the driver’s personal insurance denies coverage.
Once a ride is accepted, even before a passenger enters the car, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in third-party liability coverage.
From pickup to drop-off, the $1 million policy continues to apply, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver carries such coverage personally).
Understanding which phase the rideshare driver was in at the moment of the crash is critical to determining what coverage applies and how much you may be entitled to. Unfortunately, insurance companies often use these phrases to delay, deny, or reduce payouts.
That’s why working with an experienced Uber Lyft injury attorney in Ontario is essential. We can obtain app usage records, analyze driver status, and ensure that the appropriate policy is triggered to maximize your claim.
Rideshare accidents can cause serious, sometimes life-altering injuries, whether you’re a passenger, another driver, a cyclist, or a pedestrian. Because these crashes often occur in high-traffic zones like Ontario Mills, Fourth Street, or freeway ramps around the I-10 or 60, the force of impact is usually significant.
Here are some of the most common injuries seen in rideshare crash claims in Ontario:
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Damage
Sudden stops or rear-end collisions can cause whiplash, muscle strains, and ligament tears. These injuries may not appear immediately, but can result in lasting pain and limited mobility.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Fractured ribs, arms, legs, or hips are common in high-speed rideshare crashes. These often require surgery, casting, and extended recovery periods.
Head and Brain Injuries
Even with a seatbelt on, passengers and drivers may hit their heads during a crash. Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to cognitive problems, dizziness, mood changes, and memory loss.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
Damage to the spine or nerves can result in chronic pain, herniated discs, or even partial paralysis. These injuries may require physical therapy, injections, or long-term treatment.
Emotional Trauma
Accidents involving strangers like rideshare drivers can create feelings of vulnerability and anxiety. Many victims develop PTSD, fear of riding in cars, or suffer from sleep disturbances and depression.
No matter how minor your injuries may seem at first, it’s essential to get medical treatment and speak with a qualified rideshare accident lawyer in Ontario. Injuries often worsen over time, and if you wait too long, you may lose your right to full compensation.
Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crash claims involve multiple layers of insurance, vague legal definitions, and powerful companies determined to protect their interests. If you’re pursuing a rideshare crash claim in Ontario, you’ll likely face several unique challenges that make it difficult to get full compensation without legal representation.
One of the biggest hurdles in rideshare accidents is identifying who is legally responsible. Was the Uber or Lyft driver at fault? Was a third-party driver to blame? Or was it a combination of both? Sorting through these questions requires a detailed investigation, and often cooperation from the rideshare company to obtain app data and driver status records.
Uber and Lyft insurance coverage depend on the precise moment of the crash. If the driver was logged into the app and had accepted a ride, $1 million in coverage might apply. If the driver was simply waiting for a request, coverage is far more limited. Companies are not always forthcoming about this information without legal pressure.
Many claims involve both the rideshare company’s insurer and third-party auto insurers. These companies frequently try to shift blame onto each other to avoid paying. This creates delays, confusion, and unfair settlement offers that often fall far below what victims need.
Because rideshare drivers are not considered employees, Uber and Lyft often try to distance themselves from liability. They may argue that the driver, not the platform, is solely responsible, even when the accident occurred during a ride.
Even when coverage applies, adjusters may attempt to downplay your injuries, question your medical treatment, or deny parts of your claim. Without experienced legal support, it’s easy to accept less than you deserve.
A seasoned rideshare accident lawyer in Ontario can overcome these roadblocks by demanding complete transparency, handling insurer pushback, and making sure no detail is overlooked.
After a rideshare accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re trying to deal with injuries, insurance paperwork, and conflicting information from multiple parties. That’s where a dedicated Uber Lyft injury attorney in Ontario can make all the difference. Your lawyer is your advocate, investigator, negotiator, and protector throughout the entire claims process.
Here’s how we help:
Your attorney will investigate whether the driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger. This determines what level of Uber or Lyft insurance applies and whether you’re eligible for up to $1 million in coverage.
You won’t have to worry about answering adjuster calls, writing demand letters, or trying to understand complicated policy language. We take over all communication with Uber, Lyft, and any third-party insurers to prevent mistakes or admissions that could harm your claim.
From police reports and witness statements to rideshare company data, we secure every piece of evidence needed to show who was at fault. In complex cases, we work with accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals to build a strong, fact-based case.
Whether your injuries are moderate or severe, you deserve a settlement that covers all your losses, now and in the future. We push back against lowball offers and fight for compensation that reflects the actual impact of the accident.
If negotiations fail, we’re ready to file a lawsuit and represent you in court. Rideshare companies and insurers know we’re prepared to litigate, which often leads to better settlement offers.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we’ve helped rideshare accident victims across Ontario secure the compensation they need to move forward. We’re ready to do the same for you.
Erica B., a 29-year-old nurse, was heading home from a shift at San Antonio Regional Hospital when she requested a Lyft to avoid driving tired. While traveling eastbound on 4th Street near Euclid Avenue, her rideshare vehicle was struck by a distracted driver who ran a red light. The impact caused Lyft to spin into a light pole, and Erica suffered a fractured pelvis, two broken ribs, and a concussion.
Initially, Lyft’s insurance company offered a $75,000 settlement, claiming the other driver was partially responsible and that Erica’s injuries would heal quickly. But the reality was far more serious; she required surgery, missed nearly four months of work, and continued to suffer from migraines and anxiety related to the crash.
That’s when Erica contacted Countrywide Trial Lawyers.
Our team quickly obtained dashcam footage, medical documentation, and app records, which showed that the Lyft driver had an active ride in progress, thereby triggering Lyft’s $1 million liability coverage. We filed a claim against both Lyft’s policy and the third-party driver’s insurer, coordinating expert evaluations and presenting a comprehensive damages package.
After several rounds of negotiation, we secured a $650,000 settlement covering Erica’s medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
Her story is just one example of what’s possible when a rideshare accident lawyer in Ontario fights for your full recovery.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, your losses likely go far beyond medical bills. California law allows victims to pursue compensation for the full scope of harm caused by the crash, both financial and emotional. A successful rideshare crash claim in Ontario can help you recover damages that address both your immediate needs and long-term challenges.
Here are the most common types of compensation available:
You can claim current and future medical costs, including:
If your injuries forced you to miss work or left you unable to return to your previous job, you can seek:
This includes compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact the accident has had on your daily life, hobbies, sleep, and personal relationships.
If your personal property (e.g., phone, laptop, or vehicle) was damaged in the crash, you can seek reimbursement for repair costs.
If a loved one was killed in a rideshare accident, surviving family members may be entitled to:
No two cases are the same. A skilled rideshare accident lawyer in Ontario will help you calculate the actual value of your claim and fight for the full amount you’re owed.
Suppose you find yourself involved in a rideshare accident in Ontario. In that case, whether as a passenger, a driver, or a bystander, the actions you take can significantly influence your well-being and the outcome of your claim. Here’s a constructive approach to help you protect your rights and strengthen your case:
It’s crucial to report the accident and request medical help if necessary. Even if you feel fine, it’s wise to have a medical evaluation, as some injuries, like concussions or soft tissue damage, may not be immediately apparent.
Capture photographs of all vehicles involved, any visible injuries, license plates, the surrounding area, and relevant traffic signs. This documentation could be vital in supporting your claim later on.
Collect the names, phone numbers, insurance information, and driver’s license numbers from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver. Identifying the rideshare company (such as Uber or Lyft) is also essential.
If you were a passenger, promptly report the accident in the Uber or Lyft app to initiate their internal claim process. However, it’s advisable not to rely solely on this step.
Inquire about obtaining the police report from the Ontario Police Department. This document is essential as it provides vital information about the accident and initial assessments of fault.
Before giving a recorded statement to an insurance representative or considering a settlement offer, seek advice from a qualified attorney. Early legal support can safeguard your rights and enhance your chances of receiving a fair outcome.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you are well-prepared to handle the aftermath of a rideshare accident with confidence and clarity.
Yes, if the driver was logged into the app and actively working, Uber or Lyft’s insurance may apply. Coverage varies depending on whether the driver was waiting for a ride, en route to a pickup, or transporting a passenger. A lawyer can help determine which policy applies.
You may still be eligible for compensation through the rideshare company’s insurance, depending on the driver’s status at the time. If the driver was on duty, you may be covered by up to $1 million in liability insurance.
It’s difficult. Because rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors, suing the platform directly is limited under California law. However, their insurance coverage often applies, and in some cases, corporate negligence claims may be possible.
If the driver was not logged into the app, their auto insurance is the primary source of coverage, not Uber or Lyft’s policy. You can still file a claim, but coverage limits may be lower.
You can file claims against each liable party. In multi-vehicle rideshare accidents, your attorney will investigate fault, determine liability percentages, and pursue compensation from all responsible parties.
Yes. If you were an Uber or Lyft driver injured while on duty, you may be covered under the platform’s insurance, particularly if another driver was at fault. You can also pursue damages if a passenger’s behavior caused the accident.
Coverage can be generous ($1 million), but it depends on the app's status and fault. However, insurance companies may still undervalue or deny legitimate claims. A lawyer ensures you receive the full amount you’re entitled to.
Even if you weren’t aware, the vehicle’s rideshare status can still trigger special insurance coverage. Your lawyer can help uncover this detail through vehicle records and rideshare company data.
Yes. Some injuries may take hours or days to surface. It’s wise to get a medical evaluation and speak to a lawyer as soon as possible to preserve your right to file a claim later.
In California, you typically have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim. If a government vehicle or agency is involved, the deadline could be as short as six months.
Being involved in a rideshare accident is confusing, stressful, and often overwhelming. You may not know who to blame, which insurance policy applies, or whether the rideshare company is even responsible. Meanwhile, you’re dealing with real injuries, missed work, and mounting medical bills, while insurers delay or deny your claim.
You don’t have to handle this alone.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we’ve helped countless clients in Ontario and surrounding cities recover from Uber and Lyft accidents. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, another driver, or even a rideshare driver yourself, we know how to cut through the confusion and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We handle every part of the process from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurers to filing a lawsuit if necessary. We understand how rideshare insurance works, how companies like Uber and Lyft try to avoid responsibility, and how to build a claim that gets real results.
And because we work on a contingency fee basis, you never pay upfront. If we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us a dime.
If you were injured in a rideshare accident in Ontario, Upland, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, or anywhere in the Inland Empire, don’t wait. The longer you delay, the harder it becomes to recover what you’re owed.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
