Millions of Americans use Uber to get around because they are much more convenient and cheaper than conventional taxicabs. At the same time, Uber drivers make mistakes, and
accidents can happen. Some of these can lead to serious injuries. It would help to have an experienced Uber accident lawyer to advocate for you.
Even Uber accidents at low speeds can lead to major injuries. At the Vaziri Law Group , our experienced Uber accident lawyers are prepared to fight for you. We have a background in dealing with all types of car accidents, and an Uber accident attorney from our team can defend your rights.
Learn more about Uber accidents below. Then, contact us to schedule a free case consultation.
Table Of Contents
- Why You Need a Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyer
- The laws are complex.
- Your attorney can help handle the insurance company.
- You can focus on recovering from your injuries.
- Common Causes of Uber Accidents
- What to Do After an Uber Accident
- What Compensation Can I Receive After an Uber Accident?
- How Much Time Do I Have to File My Uber Accident Claim?
- FAQs
- What should I do immediately after an Uber accident?
- Can I sue Uber after an accident?
- What compensation can I claim after an Uber accident?
- Why do I need a lawyer for an Uber accident claim?
- Contact Our Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyer To Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Why You Need a Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyer
You need an experienced Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer if you've been injured in an accident involving an Uber vehicle. Some of the top reasons why you should rely on our Uber accident attorneys include:
The laws are complex.
A California law enacted in July 2015 requires Uber drivers to carry more insurance coverage when logging into the app and seeking to accept a ride from a passenger.
They are required to have even higher coverage when they accept a trip and are in the process of transporting passengers. However, there are still gaps and loopholes in the law.
For instance, the law does not clarify how coverage functions when someone who does not use the app calls an Uber driver.
Once an Uber driver has been paired with a passenger and he or she has entered the vehicle, the rideshare company must carry a $1 million liability insurance policy under California law. This policy covers Uber drivers and their passengers from when passengers enter the car to when they leave.
Uber also provides drivers with $1 million in bodily injury coverage for uninsured/underinsured motorists.
In addition, the company provides comprehensive collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible as long as the driver has collision coverage on his or her auto insurance policy.
Because rideshare app laws are so complicated, it would be in your best interest to retain the services of a Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer who has successfully handled similar cases and helped injured victims secure maximum compensation for their losses.
Let our Uber or Lyft accident attorney fight for you.
Your attorney can help handle the insurance company.
Regarding auto accident claims, insurance companies tend to provide lowball offers that might not adequately cover your losses. It is in the best interest of the insurance companies to avoid paying your claim or to pay the lowest amount possible.
When you get quality legal representation on your side, your lawyer will handle all communications with insurance companies and work to help you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. Count on our rideshare accident attorneys to handle your personal injury lawsuit.
You can focus on recovering from your injuries.
Our Uber accident lawyers will collect and compile the evidence to strengthen your claim. We will also take care of all the documentation and paperwork that must be filed within certain deadlines so you don't have to worry and can focus on recovering from your injuries.
We will analyze all aspects of your case, evaluate the value of your claim, and help you make important decisions that will help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Common Causes of Uber Accidents
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Distracted driving . Many Uber accidents occur because the Uber app or other mobile devices frequently cause the driver to become distracted. This distraction can prevent drivers from noticing traffic signals, pedestrians, or changes in road conditions, leading to accidents.
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Speeding . Some Uber drivers may exceed speed limits to maximize their earnings and complete more rides in less time. Speeding reduces the driver's ability to react to sudden obstacles and increases the severity of any collision.
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Inadequate driver training . Uber drivers do not receive the same professional training as commercial vehicle drivers. This lack of training can result in poor driving decisions and techniques, contributing to accidents.
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Fatigue . Many Uber drivers work long shifts or drive for Uber in addition to other jobs, leading to fatigue. Tired drivers have slower reaction times and are more prone to making mistakes on the road.
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Poor vehicle maintenance . Uber vehicles are subject to high usage, leading to wear and tear that isn't always immediately addressed. Poorly maintained brakes, tires, and other critical components can fail and cause accidents.
What to Do After an Uber Accident
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Ensure safety : First, check yourself and others for injuries. If possible, move to a safe location without leaving the accident scene.
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Call 911 : Regardless of the severity, you must report the accident to the police. They will document the scene and file a report, which is required for insurance and legal processes.
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Seek medical attention : Even if you don't think you are injured, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent due to the shock of the accident.
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Document the scene : Take photographs and videos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, visible damage, and road conditions. Capture any skid marks, street signs, and the relative positions of vehicles.
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Exchange information : Exchange contact and insurance information with the Uber driver and any other drivers involved. Note the make, model, and license plate of all vehicles involved.
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Gather witness details : If there are witnesses, get their contact information. Witness accounts can be valuable in establishing what happened and supporting your claim.
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Report to Uber : Notify Uber through the app. Uber has a process for reporting accidents during a ride, which is critical for insurance and compensation purposes.
What Compensation Can I Receive After an Uber Accident?
Uber accident victims in California are entitled to compensation for their economic and non-economic damages. In some cases, they may also be entitled to punitive damages, particularly if the defendant exhibited an egregious level of negligence.
Here are some of the common types of damages your rideshare attorney can seek in an Uber accident case:
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Medical expenses: This includes everything from emergency transportation and treatment, surgeries, hospitalization, the cost of rehabilitative therapy, expenses relating to prescription drugs, brain injuries, medical equipment, etc.
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Lost wages: This refers to income you may have lost due to being unable to work due to your injuries. In addition, if you are permanently injured, you may also be able to seek compensation for loss of earning capacity.
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Pain and suffering: These are non-economic damages, which are often more challenging to quantify. They may include compensation for the physical pain and mental suffering you endured after the crash, losses related to disabilities or physical limitations, scarring or disfigurement, and loss of life's enjoyment.
Factors Determining the Value of Your Case
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Severity of injuries . The more severe and long-lasting your injuries, the higher your potential compensation. Serious injuries often result in extensive medical bills, prolonged recovery periods, and greater pain and suffering.
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Impact on quality of life . Your compensation may be higher if your injuries affect your ability to work, engage in daily activities, or enjoy life as you did before the accident. This factor considers both current and future effects.
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Liability and fault . Establishing fault and liability is crucial. If the Uber driver or another party is found to be clearly at fault due to negligence or reckless behavior, this strengthens your case for higher compensation.
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Insurance coverage . The amount of available insurance coverage also plays a huge role. This includes the driver's personal insurance, Uber's provided insurance, and third-party coverage.
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Legal representation . Your attorney's skill and experience can affect your case's outcome. An experienced Uber accident lawyer will be better equipped to negotiate or litigate for maximum compensation.
Should You Settle or Go To Trial?
Deciding whether to settle or go to trial is a critical decision that should be made with thorough consideration of all factors. Settlement can offer a quicker resolution to your case without the uncertainties of trial.
It can provide a guaranteed amount of compensation and allow you to avoid the stress and publicity of court proceedings. However, settlements frequently result in lower compensation than what a jury might decide to award.
Going to trial might result in higher compensation, especially if your case is strong and the damages are big. However, trials are risky as outcomes can be unpredictable. They also take more time, meaning it could be years before you receive compensation.
It's important to consult with your attorney, who can provide guidance based on their knowledge of the law, the strength of your case, and potential jury reactions.
How Much Time Do I Have to File My Uber Accident Claim?
Under California, the statute of limitations or deadline to file a personal injury claim is two years from the date of your rideshare accident. However, there are a few notable exceptions. For example, if a government vehicle was involved in your Uber accident, you must file your claim within 180 days of the accident.
Because of the complex nature of Uber accident claims, you must get an experienced Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer on your side early in the process. The experienced injury attorneys at the Vaziri Law Group have helped car accident victims and their families maximize the compensation they receive. We are passionate about fighting for your rights and helping you receive justice and fair compensation for your losses.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after an Uber accident?
Ensure your safety first immediately after getting in an Uber accident. Then, call 911 and report the accident. Photograph the accident scene and collect contact information from witnesses and all parties involved.
Can I sue Uber after an accident?
Yes, you may be able to sue Uber if their driver caused the accident while logged into the app. Your lawyer can help determine if Uber's insurance policy applies in your case .
What compensation can I claim after an Uber accident?
You can claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and sometimes punitive damages if egregious negligence is proven,
Why do I need a lawyer for an Uber accident claim?
A lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of rideshare laws, deal effectively with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Contact Our Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyer To Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Uber drivers might be independent contractors but can still be responsible for your injuries. We could even hold Uber responsible for your accident. At the Vaziri Law Group, we have experience with all types of Uber accident cases.
Now, we can handle your Uber car accident as well. See a doctor if you are an Uber passenger involved in a car accident. Then, let us review your case. Call us at 877-812-1085 to find out how we can help you.