Who pays your medical bills after a Pomona rideshare accident?
After a rideshare accident in Pomona, the question of who pays medical bills usually depends on which app the driver was using and what they were doing at the time of the crash. California law requires rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to carry significant insurance policies, but those policies apply differently based on the driver's status.
If a rideshare driver is actively transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up, a $1,000,000 liability policy covers injuries and damages (Pub. Util. Code § 5433(b)(1)). During this "period 3," as it's known, this policy is often the primary source for covering your medical expenses and other losses. If the driver was logged into the app and waiting for a ride request ("period 2"), a lower-tier policy of $50,000 per person, $100,000 per incident for bodily injury, and $30,000 for property damage applies. If the driver was offline, their personal car insurance is usually the only coverage.
Where do you file a rideshare accident lawsuit in Pomona?
If you need to file a personal injury lawsuit after a rideshare accident in Pomona, the case is generally filed with the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. Under LASC Local Rule 2.3 and the General Order re Assignment and Transfer of Personal Injury Cases (effective May 17, 2024), a personal injury case in Los Angeles County is filed in the judicial district where the incident occurred.
For accidents happening within Pomona, your case will be assigned to the East District, with hearings typically held at the Pomona Courthouse South, located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766. This location also handles other personal injury matters, including cases involving car accident injuries in Pomona.
What should you do after a rideshare accident?
- Ensure Safety: Move yourself and anyone else involved to a safe location away from traffic if possible. Check for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone needs medical attention.
- Report the Accident: Call the police to report the crash, even if it seems minor. A police report provides an official record of the incident. Also, report the accident through the rideshare app and to your own insurance company.
- Gather Information: Collect contact and insurance information from all drivers involved. Get the rideshare driver's name, vehicle make and model, license plate number, and the specific rideshare company they work for. Do not discuss fault at the scene.
- Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These can be valuable evidence later.
- Seek Medical Attention: See a doctor promptly, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, might not show symptoms immediately but can worsen without proper care. Prompt medical records also link your injuries directly to the accident.
- Contact a Lawyer: Speak with a personal injury attorney experienced in rideshare accidents. An attorney can explain your rights, help you gather necessary evidence, and deal with the insurance companies while you focus on recovery.
How long do you have to file a rideshare accident claim in California?
Most personal injury claims, including those from rideshare accidents, must be filed within two years from the date of the injury (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1). This deadline is called the statute of limitations.
However, if your accident involves a city, county, or any other public agency in Pomona, you must present a formal claim to that public entity within six months of the accident (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2). This six-month deadline is much shorter, and missing it can prevent you from ever filing a lawsuit against the public entity. The deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352), but that pause does not apply to claims against public entities. What a claim is worth depends on the specific facts; California law allows recovery for medical costs, lost earnings, and non-economic harm.
What kinds of rideshare accident cases do we handle in Pomona?
Our firm handles a wide range of rideshare accident cases in Pomona and throughout Los Angeles County. We represent passengers, drivers, and other motorists injured in collisions involving Uber, Lyft, and other transportation network company vehicles. Whether the rideshare driver was at fault, another driver caused the crash, or there are complex insurance issues, we can help.
We work on cases involving various types of injuries, from soft tissue injuries and broken bones to more severe conditions such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage. When a crash results in a fatality, we also assist families with wrongful death claims in Pomona. Our attorneys are dedicated to pursuing the full compensation available under California law for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
Working with Casa Legal Los Angeles means having an advocate on your side who understands the complexities of rideshare accident law. When you contact us, we'll start with a free case evaluation to discuss your accident, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. If we take your case, we will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and handle all communications with insurance companies.
We work to accurately calculate your damages, including medical costs, lost income, property damage, and non-economic losses. Our goal is to secure a fair settlement that reflects the true impact of your injuries. If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our personal injury and employment law is all we do, giving us deep experience in these areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the rideshare driver was not at fault?
Even if the rideshare driver was not at fault, you might still have a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance, or against the rideshare company's uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policy if the responsible driver has insufficient insurance. From January 1, 2026, the uninsured/underinsured limit for passengers in rideshare vehicles is $60,000 per person and $300,000 per incident. An attorney can help determine all potential sources of recovery for your injuries.
How do rideshare insurance policies affect my claim?
Rideshare insurance policies are complex and apply differently depending on whether the driver was offline, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger. Understanding these tiers and which policy applies to your specific accident is critical for your claim. An attorney can investigate the facts of your accident and determine which insurance coverage is applicable.
Can I still file a claim if I was a rideshare driver involved in an accident?
Yes, if you were a rideshare driver injured in an accident, you may have a claim. Your personal auto insurance, the at-fault driver's insurance, and potentially the rideshare company's liability policy could cover your injuries and vehicle damage. Your specific circumstances, including your activities at the time of the crash, will determine the available coverage.
How do I start a rideshare accident claim with your firm?
You can start a rideshare accident claim by calling our office for a free consultation. During this initial discussion, we will review the details of your accident, explain your legal rights, and outline how we can assist you. There is no obligation to proceed, and this conversation is a chance for you to understand your options.
If you've been injured in a rideshare accident in Pomona, contact Casa Legal Los Angeles for assistance. Call us today at 888-585-2529. No attorney's fees unless we win — and no case costs either.