Understanding Rideshare Periods and Ensuring Safety in Los Angeles

Understanding Rideshare Periods and Ensuring Safety in Los Angeles

By: Agavni Tulekyan | January 28, 2025 |

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in Los Angeles, making it easier than ever to travel from the South Bay to the Valley or from Santa Monica to Glendale. However, with more rideshare vehicles on the road, the risk of accidents increases. If you're involved in a crash while riding in an Uber or Lyft, understanding how rideshare insurance works is essential.

Immediate Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Your safety comes first. If you're in a rideshare accident, follow these steps:

  • Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
  • Once help has arrived, you can report the incident through the rideshare app to notify Uber or Lyft.

How Rideshare Insurance Works

Rideshare companies classify accidents into different "rideshare periods," which determine whether Uber or Lyft's insurance coverage applies.

1. Offline (No Coverage from Uber or Lyft)

If the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app at the time of the accident, they are considered offline. In this case, only their personal auto insurance applies.

2. Period 1: App is On, No Ride Accepted

When a driver is online but hasn’t accepted a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage:

  • Up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury
  • Up to $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
  • Up to $25,000 for property damage

3. Period 2: Ride Accepted, En Route to Pick Up Passenger

Once the driver accepts a ride request and is heading to pick up a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide full commercial insurance coverage, including:

  • $1 million in liability coverage
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

4. Period 3: Passenger in the Vehicle

From the moment a passenger enters the vehicle until drop-off, Uber and Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy remains in effect, along with additional coverage for damage and injuries.

Uber and Lyft provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’re an Uber or Lyft driver or passenger involved in an accident, navigating insurance policies and legal claims can be overwhelming. At Tulekyan Law, we specialize in rideshare accident cases and are here to help you understand your rights, maximize your compensation, and guide you through every step of the process. Don’t face this alone—contact Tulekyan Law today for a free consultation and the dedicated representation you deserve.

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