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Car Accident

Semi-truck on a highway in traffic

Los Angeles County Semi-Truck Accidents: What Drivers Need to Know

By Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Personal Injury, Truck Accident

Large truck accidents in Los Angeles County can lead to devastating injuries because of the size and weight of commercial trucks. Our Los Angeles County  Large Truck Accident Lawyer helps victims recover damages and navigate complex liability and insurance matters.

How Common Are Large Truck Accidents in Los Angeles County?

Large trucks account for a small portion of vehicles but are involved in a disproportionate number of fatal crashes:

  • Trucks make up roughly 2.5% of California vehicles but 9.1% of fatal crashes. (its.uci.edu)

  • In 2023, 392 deaths in California were caused by large-truck collisions. (injuryfacts.nsc.org)

  • Los Angeles County has some of the highest truck traffic in the state, with hundreds of truck-involved collisions annually due to major freight corridors, highways, and port-related traffic.

These statistics show that drivers in Los Angeles County regularly encounter large trucks and the risks associated with them.

Why Large Truck Accidents Are Often Severe

  • Trucks require much longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles

  • Large blind spots make it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles

  • Fatigue and tight delivery schedules increase risk

  • Improper cargo loading or poor maintenance can contribute to accidents

Tips for Staying Safe Around Large Trucks

  • Maintain a safe following distance to allow extra stopping time

  • Avoid lingering in truck blind spots, especially on the right side or directly behind

  • Pass trucks safely and promptly, ensuring visibility

  • Never cut sharply in front of a truck; allow plenty of space

  • Exercise extra caution at ramps, merges, and freight-heavy areas

  • If involved in a crash, document the scene carefully and avoid admitting faultInfographic of a semi-trucks blindspots

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, our team handles large truck accident cases with care, professionalism, and thorough investigation. We review driver logs, carrier responsibility, vehicle maintenance, and cargo issues to hold all responsible parties accountable. Our mission is to improve the lives of our clients through ethical and effective representation. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with our Los Angeles County large truck accident lawyer for a free consultation.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Woman sitting in the woods meditating

Why You Should Destress Before Mediation

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Mediation can be stressful. You may feel pressure to reach an agreement, worry about the other side, or fear that your position will not be understood. Managing your stress before mediation is essential to protect your mental focus and advocate effectively for yourself.

What Mediation Involves

Mediation is a structured negotiation guided by a neutral third party, called a mediator. Unlike court, it is informal, confidential, and focused on finding a mutually acceptable resolution. Understanding the process can reduce uncertainty and help you feel more prepared.

Why Reducing Stress Matters

Stress affects your judgment, communication, and patience. When you are tense, it can be harder to listen carefully, respond thoughtfully, or negotiate calmly. Entering mediation in a relaxed state increases your ability to:

  • Think clearly about your priorities and goals

  • Stay composed under pressure

  • Communicate your needs confidently

  • Recognize reasonable compromises

A calm approach can make the process smoother, help prevent emotional reactions, and improve the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Strategies to Destress

  1. Prepare in Advance
    Understand your case, documents, and your ideal outcome. Preparation reduces uncertainty, which is a major source of stress.

  2. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
    Simple breathing exercises or guided meditations can lower anxiety and help you feel grounded. Even five minutes can make a difference.

  3. Exercise
    Physical activity releases tension and stimulates endorphins. A short walk or light workout before mediation can boost focus and mood.

  4. Get Adequate Sleep
    Fatigue intensifies stress and reduces your ability to think clearly. Prioritize rest the night before your session.

  5. Limit Caffeine and Sugar
    Excessive stimulants can increase anxiety. Opt for water or calming teas instead.

  6. Visualize Success
    Picture yourself speaking calmly, listening attentively, and negotiating effectively. Positive visualization can increase confidence and reduce nervousness.

  7. Talk with Your Attorney
    Discuss concerns with your lawyer, review the process, and clarify what to expect. Feeling supported reduces fear and uncertainty.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Mediation is a critical step in resolving disputes, and Fielding Law is committed to guiding clients through it with empathy and skill. We help you prepare, stay focused, and advocate effectively so you can approach mediation with confidence.

Call 833.88.SHARK to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a calmer, more effective mediation experience.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

inside a rental car looking at the steering wheel

Emotional Distress After Rental Car Fire

By Burn Injury, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Personal Injury, Product Liability

When a Rental Car Fire Happens

Driving a rental car should feel safe, but a sudden rental car fire can change everything in moments. Whether you suffer burns, smoke inhalation, or escape without physical harm, the event can cause severe emotional trauma. Many survivors live with anxiety, flashbacks, or fear of driving after such a frightening experience.

Physical Harm and Emotional Trauma

Rental car fires can cause devastating injuries, including:

  • Burns requiring long-term treatment

  • Smoke inhalation damage

  • Fractures or sprains while escaping

Even if you walk away unharmed, the psychological effects can be lasting. Stress, fear, and trauma are real injuries, and the law recognizes them.

Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress

California and Arizona allow victims to pursue negligent infliction of emotional distress (NIED) claims. This applies when emotional suffering results from another party’s negligence. If a rental company failed to maintain or inspect the car, or if a manufacturer defect caused the fire, they may be responsible for damages.

To pursue NIED, victims generally must show that:

  • The defendant owed a duty of care

  • That duty was breached by negligence

  • The victim suffered emotional distress as a result

In many cases, a rental car fire can create both physical and psychological harm, both of which may be compensable.

Liability in Rental Car Fire Cases

Liability may fall on:

  • The rental company, for poor inspection or maintenance

  • The manufacturer, for defective parts or design flaws

  • Service providers, if negligent work contributed to the fire

Investigations often require experts to determine the cause of the fire.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand the life-changing impact of both physical and emotional injuries. Whether you are coping with medical treatment or emotional distress after a rental car fire, we are here to help. Our team investigates thoroughly, provides compassionate support, and fights for the compensation you deserve.

Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Fielding Law Jaw logo on blue and aqua green gradient

Fielding Law Earns Best Law Firms® 2026 Recognition

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Firm News and Celebrations, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Fielding Law is proud to be recognized in the 16th edition of Best Law Firms 2026, a respected publication that celebrates excellence in the legal field. Each year, Best Law Firms® identifies the nation’s top-performing firms across 127 practice areas and 188 local jurisdictions.

This recognition follows a rigorous evaluation process that includes client feedback, peer reviews, and performance assessments. In 2026, more than 110,000 clients and 200,000 legal professionals participated. Their input highlights the confidence clients have in firms that consistently deliver exceptional results and service.

What This Recognition Means

Earning a place in Best Law Firms 2026 represents more than an award. It shows our ongoing commitment to ethical, compassionate, and effective legal representation. Furthermore, this recognition reinforces Fielding Law’s mission to serve clients with professionalism and integrity.

Being named among the Best Law Firms 2026 also reflects our belief that true success extends beyond courtroom results. It demonstrates our dedication to improving clients’ lives and upholding the highest standards of care. Each case we handle is guided by empathy, focus, and the pursuit of justice.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, every client receives compassionate support, clear communication, and strong advocacy. Our attorneys take time to understand each client’s experience. We guide clients through the legal process and pursue fair compensation with determination.

Whether you have suffered a personal injury, a vehicle collision, or a wrongful death, Fielding Law is ready to help. Our inclusion in Best Law Firms 2026 reflects our proven record, client trust, and unwavering professionalism.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to learn how we can help you seek justice and move forward.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Doctor looking at a brain scan

What is a TBI?

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Wrongful Death

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when an external force injures the brain. TBIs can range from mild, like a concussion, to severe injuries that significantly affect cognitive and physical abilities. Even a mild TBI can change your life if it is not properly treated.

TBIs disrupt normal brain function, and symptoms can appear immediately or develop over time. Common signs include headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory problems, trouble concentrating, mood swings, and fatigue. Severe TBIs may cause seizures, loss of consciousness, speech difficulties, or permanent cognitive and physical impairment.

Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

TBIs can occur in many situations, often involving accidents or sudden trauma. Common causes include:

In many cases, negligence contributes to TBIs. For example, a driver running a red light or a property owner failing to maintain safe conditions can make them legally responsible for the injury.

Short-Term and Long-Term Effects

The effects of a TBI depend on its severity and location in the brain. Mild TBIs may result in temporary symptoms that improve with rest and rehabilitation. Moderate or severe TBIs may lead to long-term challenges, including:

  • Cognitive impairments such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating

  • Physical limitations such as weakness, loss of coordination, or vision problems

  • Emotional and behavioral changes, including depression, anxiety, or irritability

  • Sleep disturbances or chronic fatigue

Understanding these effects is important for recovery and legal claims because they directly affect quality of life and potential compensation.

Seeking Medical Attention

Prompt medical evaluation is critical after any head injury. A physician can diagnose the severity of the TBI using imaging tests, neurological exams, and cognitive assessments. Proper medical documentation is also essential for pursuing a personal injury claim, as it provides evidence of the injury and its impact.

How a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer Can Help

A traumatic brain injury lawyer can assist in navigating the legal process and help you seek compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. They will:

  • Investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury

  • Gather medical records, witness statements, and accident reports

  • Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure a fair settlement

  • Represent you in court if necessary

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we combine empathy and expertise to support clients who have suffered TBIs. We guide each client through the legal process while prioritizing their recovery and well-being. If you or a loved one has experienced a traumatic brain injury, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your case and explore your options.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Robot dressed as a lawyer sitting at a desk

ChatGPT Stops Legal Advice

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Recent reporting shows that ChatGPT will no longer offer legal or medical advice in the way users may expect. According to an article on Caliber.az, the update to OpenAI’s usage policies was published October 29 2025. 

This development matters more than just a technical policy change: it serves as a reminder that when you face injuries, rights, or liability, you need a trained attorney—not just a chatbot.

What changed in the policy update

The new usage terms state that ChatGPT (and related services) may not be used for the “provision of tailored advice that requires a license, such as legal or medical advice, without appropriate involvement by a licensed professional.” 
The update went into effect on October 29 2025.

Why did this change occur? Several key factors:

  • Growing concern over liability when users rely on AI for high-stakes decisions.

  • The need to clearly distinguish between general information and personalized advice.

  • Regulatory pressure and the desire by OpenAI to define safe boundaries in legal and medical contexts.

In short, the update clarifies that ChatGPT is meant for general information rather than individualized legal strategy. It does not mean AI is completely barred from discussing legal topics—it means AI should not act as your lawyer.

Why this matters

AI tools can be very helpful for learning basic concepts or exploring ideas. However, they cannot replace the role of a licensed attorney in an injury case. Consider these facts:

  • ChatGPT cannot guarantee attorney-client privilege or confidentiality.

  • It cannot negotiate with insurance companies, handle state-specific statutes, or manage future medical needs.

  • The law in California and Arizona for personal injury cases contains complex rules around negligence, damages, statute of limitations, and more.

Why a skilled attorney matters

A licensed attorney does more than give information. They provide strategy, advocacy, and protection:

  • They understand state-specific laws and personal injury regulations.

  • They create legal strategies specific to your injuries and recovery.

  • They handle insurance negotiations to protect your rights.

  • They manage deadlines, paperwork, and complex legal processes.

  • They prevent mistakes that could reduce compensation.

  • They offer guidance, support, and professionalism throughout the case.

How does this affect your case

If you are injured in a bicycle accident, car crash, slip, trip, and fall, or bitten by a dog in California or Arizona, relying on ChatGPT legal advice is risky. Only a qualified attorney can review your case, explain your rights, and help you recover fair compensation.

Why hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, client service is our priority. We improve the lives of each client through ethical and efficient representation. Every case is handled with care, clarity, and commitment. When you need a knowledgeable advocate who cares, we are here.

Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been injured.

The end of ChatGPT legal advice highlights a simple truth: AI cannot replace a skilled attorney. Professional guidance protects your rights, guides your case, and maximizes your recovery in personal injury matters.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Phone with social media apps

Should Social Media Platforms Be Private After an Accident?

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Should Social Media Platforms Be Private After an Accident?

After an accident, protecting your social media privacy is more important than most people realize. What you share online can easily be used against you in your personal injury claim. Adjusters, defense attorneys, and even investigators may review your posts for anything that contradicts your statements about injuries or damages.

How Social Media Can Affect Your Case

Photos, status updates, and comments can all be taken out of context. A picture of you smiling at a family gathering could be used to question the severity of your pain. Even casual remarks might seem harmless but can harm your case if they appear inconsistent. Therefore, it is wise to avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or your recovery process until your case is resolved.

Insurance Companies and Social Media

Insurance companies use social media to gather evidence that benefits them, not you. They may look at your profiles, tagged photos, and comments to find anything that reduces your settlement value. Even private accounts can be accessed through mutual connections or screenshots shared by others.

To protect your social media privacy after an accident, review your privacy settings, limit new friend requests, and think carefully before sharing content.

Tips for Protecting Your Privacy

If you want to maintain control over your online presence, consider these steps:

  • Set all accounts to private and review who can see your posts.

  • Avoid discussing the accident, your injuries, or your case online.

  • Ask friends and family not to tag you in photos or posts.

  • Avoid checking in at locations that could suggest you are active or uninjured.

  • Save all relevant messages or posts in case your attorney needs them later.

By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of your social media activity being used against you.

Social Media Platforms

Social media privacy after an accident can make a significant difference in how your case unfolds. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, and Snapchat can unintentionally reveal information about your daily activities, friends, or location. Set your accounts to private and limit who can see your posts. Restrict story viewers, turn off tagging, and disable location features to prevent others from connecting you to places or events that could appear inconsistent with your injuries.

Messaging and Communication Apps

Private messages are not always truly private. After an accident, avoid discussing details about your injuries or claim in WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram, Discord, Reddit, or group chats. Keep usernames anonymous when possible, and remember that messages can easily be screenshotted or shared. It is best to limit conversations about your case to trusted sources and your attorney.

Financial and Payment Apps

Few people realize that payment apps can pose risks to social media privacy after an accident. Apps like Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, and Zelle often show payees, amounts, and comments that may appear public. Set transactions to private, review past activity, and avoid adding descriptive notes that mention outings, purchases, or events. Even small details can be taken out of context by insurance adjusters or defense attorneys.

Location and Fitness Apps

Fitness and location apps can also compromise your privacy. Platforms such as Strava, Fitbit, Apple Fitness, and Google Maps can show your movements, activity levels, and location history. Disable location sharing, turn off automatic check-ins, and review old data to protect your social media privacy after an accident. Limiting this information helps prevent others from making assumptions about your physical condition.

Content Sharing and Storage

Shared albums and online storage can reveal more than you intend. Services like Google Photos, iCloud, Dropbox, YouTube, and Pinterest often include location data and timestamps. Keep albums and boards private, remove metadata from photos, and share only with trusted individuals. This extra step can prevent your personal content from being taken out of context.

Shopping and Membership Accounts

Even accounts unrelated to your case can affect your privacy. Amazon wish lists, gym check-ins, and subscription services can provide insight into your daily life and physical activities. Review what is public and disable any sharing features. Protecting your digital footprint strengthens your overall privacy after an accident.

Email and Cloud Services

Your email and cloud storage may contain sensitive medical or legal information. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Review shared folders, permissions, and forwarding rules to make sure only trusted contacts can access your information.

Quick Checklist After an Accident

  • Set social media accounts to private

  • Restrict story viewers and friends lists

  • Disable location sharing and geotags

  • Make payment app transactions private

  • Review cloud storage and shared albums

  • Enable two-factor authentication

  • Avoid discussing your accident or injuries online

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand how social media can impact your personal injury case. Our compassionate attorneys guide clients through every step of the process, including protecting their online privacy. We are committed to helping accident victims in Arizona and California receive fair compensation while safeguarding their rights.

If you have questions about social media privacy after an accident, contact Fielding Law today. Call 833.88.SHARK to schedule a free consultation and let our team provide the support and legal insight you need.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

truck driving on a california road

Accidents Involving Undocumented Truck Drivers

By Car Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Recent Headlines Raise New Concerns

Recent California news has drawn attention to truck crashes involving drivers without legal status. These reports have caused many people to ask a difficult question: If I was injured in a truck accident with an undocumented driver, who pays for my injuries?

The good news is that your right to compensation depends on fault and insurance coverage, not immigration status.

Who Is Financially Responsible

You can still seek compensation after a truck accident with an undocumented driver. California law allows any injured person to file a claim when another person’s negligence causes harm.

Liability often involves one or more of the following:

  • The trucking company: Companies must hire qualified, licensed drivers. When they skip background checks or ignore red flags, they can be held responsible for resulting accidents.

  • The truck owner or carrier: The business that owns or leases the truck may share responsibility if it failed to maintain safe vehicles or hire responsible drivers.

  • Commercial insurance: Trucking companies carry high-limit insurance that can cover medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

  • Your own insurance: Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may help pay for your losses if the truck driver has no valid insurance.

Your Right to File a Claim

California focuses on negligence, not immigration status. A driver’s legal standing in the U.S. does not excuse unsafe or reckless behavior. If a driver’s carelessness caused your crash, you have the right to seek damages.

Even if the at-fault driver fled the scene or had no insurance, you may still recover through other available insurance policies. An attorney can help find every possible source of recovery.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

After a truck accident with an undocumented driver, quick action can make a major difference. Follow these steps to protect your health and your rights:

  1. Report the accident – Call 911 so law enforcement can document the crash.

  2. Exchange information – Contact and vehicle information with all drivers.

  3. Take clear photos – The scene, damage, and injuries.

  4. Seek immediate medical care – Get medical care right away, even if you feel fine.

  5. Contact an Attorney – Contact a skilled truck accident lawyer who can guide you through your next steps.

Why Hire Fielding Law

A truck accident with an undocumented driver can create confusion and stress. Fielding Law helps you navigate every challenge with care and determination. Our team thoroughly investigates, identifies all liable parties, and builds a strong case to protect your future.

When you hire Fielding Law, you gain more than legal representation; you gain a compassionate partner who wants to see you recover.

If you were injured in a truck accident with an undocumented driver in California, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Police officer writing a report

No Police Report at the Scene?

By Car Accident

What Happens If You Did Not Get a Police Report?

You were just in a crash—but in the chaos, stress, or confusion, a police report never got filed. Now you are wondering: Can I still file a claim?

The answer is: Yes, you often can. But there are important steps you will need to take.

At Fielding Law, we help injured people every day—even those involved in a no police report accident. A police report can strengthen your case, but it is not the only way to prove fault or secure compensation.

Why Police Reports Matter

Police reports often serve as an official record of the accident. They usually include:

  • Basic facts about the crash (location, time, weather)

  • Contact and insurance info for all parties

  • Officer observations and possible fault assignments

  • Diagrams or photos from the scene

Having a report is helpful—but not having one does not end your case.

Common Reasons a Report Might Not Be Filed

There are several reasons someone may leave the scene without a police report:

  • The damage seemed minor at the time

  • The other driver asked not to involve law enforcement

  • Police did not respond to the scene

  • You were in shock or dealing with injuries

  • Language barriers or confusion

If any of these apply to you, you are not alone. What matters now is what you do next.

What To Do After a No Police Report Accident

If you were in a crash and did not get a report, take these steps as soon as possible:

  1. Write everything down
    Document what happened while it is still fresh—time, location, what each vehicle was doing, and anything said at the scene.

  2. Gather photos or videos
    Images of vehicle damage, license plates, injuries, and road conditions are all useful.

  3. Get medical attention
    Even if injuries seemed minor, get checked out. Medical records will help link your condition to the accident.

  4. Collect contact info
    If you have the other driver’s information or witness details, hold onto them.

  5. File a report yourself
    In some cases, you may still be able to file a late report with local law enforcement.

  6. Talk to a personal injury attorney
    An attorney can help reconstruct the accident, find alternative evidence, and deal with the insurance company on your behalf.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you are navigating an injury claim with no police report after an accident, you do not have to go through it alone. At Fielding Law, we know how to help injury victims build strong cases—even when things feel uncertain. Our team is kind, capable, and committed to standing by your side.

We will investigate what happened, communicate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call 833.88.SHARK today for a free consultation.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

rideshare drive shown as viewed from the back seat

What If Your Uber or Lyft Is in a Hit-and-Run?

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Rideshare Accident

Understanding Rideshare Hit-and-Run Accidents

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have grown rapidly, with more than 180 million passengers in the U.S. in 2024 using these platforms. Unfortunately, some rideshare trips end in accidents, and in some cases, the other driver may flee the scene. A rideshare hit-and-run accident occurs when your Uber or Lyft is struck by another driver who leaves without identifying themselves.

Hit-and-run crashes can leave passengers and drivers with serious injuries and uncertainty about how to recover damages.

How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is designed to protect you if an at-fault driver does not have insurance or cannot be located. In rideshare situations, coverage can be complicated because both the rideshare company’s insurance and the driver’s personal policies may apply depending on whether the driver was:

  • Offline or waiting for a ride request: The driver’s personal auto insurance typically applies.

  • En route to pick up a passenger: The rideshare company provides limited liability coverage.

  • With a passenger in the car: The rideshare company usually provides higher liability coverage, and uninsured motorist coverage may also be available.

UM coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering if the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.

Challenges in Rideshare Hit-and-Run Claims

Some factors that make these cases complex include:

  • Identifying the at-fault driver: Without a license plate or witnesses, tracking the responsible party can be difficult.

  • Coordinating multiple insurance policies: Passengers may need to work with both the driver’s personal insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance.

  • State laws: California and Arizona have different uninsured motorist coverage rules.

In California, rideshare companies must provide liability coverage while the driver is online, and UM coverage may extend to passengers. In Arizona, uninsured motorist coverage also applies, but policy limits and coordination with the driver’s insurance can vary.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Hit-and-Run

  1. Seek medical attention immediately and document your injuries.

  2. Report the accident to local law enforcement to create an official record.

  3. Notify the rideshare company so they can activate their insurance protocols.

  4. Keep all evidence, including photos, ride receipts, and witness contact information.

  5. Contact a rideshare accident attorney to ensure your uninsured motorist coverage and other options are properly pursued.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Rideshare hit-and-run accidents involve multiple parties and insurance policies, making recovery complicated. At Fielding Law, we have experience navigating these cases in both California and Arizona. We work closely with medical providers and insurance companies to maximize your recovery under uninsured motorist coverage.

We treat clients with care, clarity, and professionalism, helping you focus on healing while we handle the legal complexities. If you were injured in a rideshare hit-and-run accident, call 833.88.SHARK today for a free consultation.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

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