Auto Accidents & Ridesharing in Walnut Creek: Understanding Liability

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed how people move around Walnut Creek. But when a rideshare vehicle is involved in an accident, things can get legally complicated. Questions about insurance coverage, driver responsibility, and the role of the rideshare company often leave victims unsure of what to do next.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver—understanding your rights and how California law applies is crucial. In this blog, we’ll break down the key legal considerations, insurance rules, and liability issues specific to rideshare accidents in Walnut Creek.

What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different?

Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare collisions involve not just the driver but also a third-party company—either Uber or Lyft—operating under what’s known as a Transportation Network Company (TNC) model. This structure creates layers of insurance coverage depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.

To determine liability, the first step is understanding the driver’s “period of activity” on the rideshare app.

The Three Periods of Rideshare Activity

California law breaks down a rideshare driver’s time into three distinct periods, each impacting who is liable and what insurance applies.

Period 0: App Is Off

The driver is using their car for personal purposes and is not logged into the rideshare app. In this case, only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. Uber or Lyft are not liable because the driver is not acting in their capacity as a rideshare operator.

Period 1: App On, Waiting for a Ride

The driver is logged into the app and available for ride requests but has not yet accepted a trip. Here, Uber and Lyft provide contingent insurance coverage:

• $50,000 bodily injury per person
• $100,000 bodily injury per accident
• $30,000 property damage
• $200,000 excess liability coverage (required by California AB 2293)

Periods 2 and 3: En Route or Transporting a Passenger

Once a ride is accepted and while transporting a passenger, rideshare companies provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. This includes:

• $1 million in third-party liability
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
• Comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver also has such coverage on their personal policy)

This full coverage is critical in serious injury cases.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Rideshare Accident?

Understanding liability in a Walnut Creek rideshare crash often requires a case-specific review, but the following parties may be involved:

The Rideshare Driver

Drivers can be held personally liable if they were negligent. Examples include:

• Running a red light
• Speeding
• Driving under the influence
• Distracted driving

The driver’s liability depends on whether they were acting as a rideshare driver or simply using their vehicle for personal reasons.

The Rideshare Company (Uber or Lyft)

Uber and Lyft typically avoid direct liability by classifying their drivers as independent contractors. However, the companies still provide substantial insurance coverage and may be held liable if:

• They negligently hired a driver with a poor driving record
• They failed to remove a dangerous driver
• Their app or business model contributed to the crash

Recent lawsuits have pushed back against the independent contractor defense in some cases, so TNC liability remains an evolving legal issue in California.

Other Drivers or Parties

In some cases, a third-party driver or another entity may be at fault. For example, if a delivery truck makes an illegal U-turn and causes a collision involving a rideshare vehicle, that truck driver or their employer could be liable.

California’s Comparative Negligence Rule

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault in a rideshare accident, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Example:

If you’re awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, you’ll receive $80,000.

This rule can significantly impact your recovery in a multi-vehicle crash involving a rideshare car, so it’s important to have strong legal advocacy to present your side clearly.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Walnut Creek

If you’re involved in a rideshare-related crash, here’s what you should do:

1. Call 911 – Always report the accident to the police.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Get checked even if you feel fine; injuries may not be immediately apparent.
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the vehicles, surroundings, and injuries.
4. Get Information – Ask for names, contact info, and insurance details of all drivers involved, including whether the rideshare driver was working at the time.
5. Contact an Attorney – Rideshare accidents can be complex. A knowledgeable lawyer can help clarify liability, communicate with insurers, and ensure your rights are protected.

Statute of Limitations in California

California law generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could bar you from recovering any compensation.

Some exceptions may apply, such as claims involving government vehicles or minor children, but acting quickly is always in your best interest.

Common Scenarios and Insurance Implications

Challenges in Walnut Creek Rideshare Cases

Walnut Creek’s growing population, proximity to major freeways, and popularity of rideshare services create a busy traffic environment. With more Uber and Lyft vehicles on the road, the risk of collisions increases—especially in congested areas like downtown, BART stations, and event venues.

Some of the key challenges that local victims may face include:

• Disputes over whether the app was on or off
• Denials of coverage from the driver’s personal insurer
• Delayed responses from Uber or Lyft insurance adjusters
• Difficulty proving long-term injuries or emotional trauma

Because of these factors, having a local legal team that understands how to handle rideshare-specific claims can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Why Legal Help Matters

Rideshare accidents may involve:

• Multiple insurers (personal and corporate)
• Corporate defendants (Uber or Lyft)
• Disputes over fault and damages
• Time-sensitive evidence like GPS logs and app data

An experienced attorney can help by:

• Investigating the accident scene and ride app data
• Coordinating with doctors and expert witnesses
• Negotiating with both insurance carriers
• Preparing a strong case for settlement or trial

About Brand Peters PC

Brand Peters PC is a trusted personal injury law firm serving Walnut Creek and surrounding areas. The firm is known for providing attentive, results-driven representation in serious accident cases, including rideshare and auto-related injuries. Our legal team understands the local court systems, insurance tactics, and legal nuances that impact injury claims in Contra Costa County.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident in Walnut Creek, don’t wait to get the help you deserve. Liability in Uber and Lyft accidents can be complicated, but you don’t have to face it alone.

Contact Brand Peters PC today at (925) 489-0746 for experienced legal guidance tailored to your situation. Our team is ready to help you understand your rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you need to recover and move forward with confidence.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal guidance tailored to your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.