A car accident can turn your life upside down. Even small fender benders can result in injuries and property damage. Catastrophic car crashes can mean major injuries, tremendous medical bills, and time away from work. When the crash wasn’t your fault, you deserve compensation.
Usually, that means filing a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance provider. But who is liable when the other driver works for a rideshare company? Our rideshare accident lawyers in Santa Ana can help you hold the appropriate party accountable for your damages.
Our team at Vaziri Law LLP has over 200 years of combined experience standing up for the rights of injured accident victims in California.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out how our personal injury lawyers in Santa Ana can help with your case.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Rideshare Accident?
It is always a good idea to consult with an attorney when you are hurt in an accident. This is especially important for rideshare crashes, where it may not be obvious who is liable. You could have a case against the driver, the company, both, or a third party. A skilled attorney can:
- Investigate your accident and identify all liable parties.
- Assess your damages to ensure you get maximum compensation.
- File your claim and handle your case from start to finish.
- Negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf.
- Represent you in court if negotiations are not effective.
Our rideshare accident attorneys in Santa Ana bill on a contingency fee basis, which means you owe us nothing to get started on your case. You only pay our fees once we’ve recovered compensation. If we don’t win your case, you don’t pay.
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Can You Sue a Rideshare Company for an Accident?
Yes, you can sue a rideshare company when you are in an accident and they are at fault; however, it is often better to start by filing a claim. Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft have significant liability insurance that can cover up to $1 million in damages in specific cases.
It is also important to realize that rideshare companies are typically only liable for accidents when their driver is signed into the app and conducting company business. Their drivers are contractors, not employees, so legal concepts like vicarious liability typically don’t apply.
Rideshare companies may also be liable in other situations if, for example, they were negligent in their hiring practices and did not properly vet new drivers. Otherwise, in most cases, the drivers are liable for their actions when they aren’t on company time.
What if the Driver Is Liable for a Rideshare Accident?
If the rideshare company is not liable for your accident, you will need to file an insurance claim with the driver’s insurance policy. The positive side of this is that both Uber and Lyft require any driver they hire to carry the minimum insurance requirements mandated by California state law.
The downside is that, like any other car accident claim, the insurance company may not be eager to pay you what’s fair. They might do everything in their power to delay or deny your claim or even try to convince you to take lowball settlements.
Our Santa Ana rideshare accident lawyers know insurance company tactics, and we will work to ensure you are treated fairly and get the compensation they owe you. With our team on your side, you have an ally who levels the playing field.
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How Much Is a Rideshare Accident Claim Worth?
The amount you can recover from your claim depends on the severity of your damages. More serious injuries lead to larger settlements. Your attorney will evaluate your expenses and long-term outlook to determine a fair amount for your claim.
This may include compensation to cover the following losses:
- Your medical expenses, such as emergency care, doctor visits, prescription medications, and procedures
- Future projected medical costs, like ongoing therapy and medications
- Lost wages and benefits
- Property damages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In very rare cases, a court may award punitive damages if it believes the rideshare company acted illegally or with extreme recklessness or negligence. Your attorney can advise if this is a possibility in your case.
Get Help from a Rideshare Accident Attorney in Santa Ana
If you have been hurt in an accident with a rideshare driver, they may be liable for your injuries. Alternatively, the rideshare company itself could be at fault. Figuring it all out when you are recovering is a daunting process, and you might need a little help.
Our rideshare accident attorneys in Santa Ana can investigate your accident, file your claim, and hold the responsible party accountable for your damages. We’ll negotiate a settlement that makes a difference in your life or take your case to court if necessary.
Vaziri Law LLP has recovered over $1 billion in awards and settlements for injured accident victims in California since 2006. Contact a rideshare accident lawyer near me today and schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.