Calaveras Uber Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Calaveras Uber Accident Lawyers Offer Representation Rooted In Experience
More than 45,000 people call Calaveras home. Getting around the county can be tough without a car. Thankfully, Uber offers their services to residents and tourists. The influx of ride requests, however, also increases the risk of Uber accidents. If you sustain injuries in one, you can contact our Calaveras Uber accident lawyers for legal assistance in seeking compensation. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391!
Calaveras is a scenic county with a rich history. It is one of the top spots for nature enthusiasts and spelunkers exploring the county’s caverns. However, while ridesharing services offer a comfortable and affordable commute for tourists, Uber accidents have been reported in the city. As a victim, you may be eligible to seek compensation not just from the driver but from the company as well.
Our Calaveras Uber accident attorneys can help you file a personal injury claim. To discuss your case with our attorneys, you can call us or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form here. One of our lawyers will get back to you so you can ask questions and voice any concerns you may have.
Gil v. Anderson Plumbing: verdict by a Los Angeles County Superior Court jury in Van Nuys awarded to a man who was injured when his vehicle was struck from behind by a large commercial plumbing van. Benny was part of the trial team that obtained this verdict.– BENNY KHORSANDI
How Can Calaveras Uber Accident Lawyers Help You Pursue Compensation?
Backed by decades of experience, our Calaveras Uber accident lawyers can help you pursue compensation if you were injured in a rideshare crash. We can help you communicate with insurance companies. We can also help address any disputes and challenges that may arise in the process. They may sound approachable and understanding, but they may raise defenses to contest liability. Our lawyers are here to help you seek compensation for your losses, whether at the negotiation table or in court.
To help you with your claim, our Uber accident lawyers in Calaveras County can do the following:
- Investigate and Analyze the Facts — Diligently gathering evidence can help with your case. Proof can support your claim that the defendant had breached their duty of care. Our team can look into police reports, medical records, eyewitness accounts, and photos and videos.
- Negotiate with Insurance Adjusters — If you are not careful with what you say, insurance adjusters may argue the extent of their liability. This is especially true when they are working with big corporations like Uber. That is why we negotiate on your behalf. You do not have to talk to them and stress about whether you may accidentally say something that could hurt your claim.
- Do the Paperwork — Uber accident cases may require extensive paperwork in addition to investigations and negotiations. This process can be overwhelming, especially if you lack legal experience. You may want to leave that task to us so you can focus on resting and recovering.
- Prepare for Litigation — While we aim to settle matters out of court, we are also prepared to go into litigation, if necessary. Wherever your case takes us, we can protect your legal rights and help you seek fair compensation.
Why Hire Arash Law’s Skilled Calaveras Uber Accident Attorneys For Your Case?
We can represent clients in a wide range of legal issues. Each case is unique, and the outcome depends on the specific circumstances involved.
Our Calaveras Uber accident attorneys can help and guide you throughout the claims process. Open communication is a big part of our strategy when handling cases. You may receive updates on your case regularly. This may help put us on the same page and enable you to make informed decisions.
No two cases are identical. You have a unique situation compared to other Uber accidents. That is why we develop solutions tailored to your specific situation. Getting to know you can help us do that.
Moreover, people may have the right to seek compensation after an accident. Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis so that our clients can gain access to legal representation regardless of their financial situation. Under this agreement, you do not have to pay attorney’s fees unless we obtain compensation on your behalf. However, you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs and litigation expenses regardless of the outcome.
In every case we handle, our goal is to help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Our attorneys help you explore your legal options, allowing you to move forward. Accidents and injuries can drastically alter the lives of victims. That is why we work to uphold your rights, communicate with insurance providers, and seek compensation for your injuries.
Common Injuries In An Uber Accident
A number of injuries can result from Uber accidents, ranging in severity from whiplash to paralysis. The extent of your injuries may affect the outcome of your claim. For example, serious injuries may justify higher compensation due to the medications and treatments the victims need to recover.
Regardless, our lawyers in Calaveras for Uber accidents can assist you in pursuing fair compensation under the law. Moreover, we can refer you to a medical team that can evaluate the extent of your injuries and help with your treatment.
Here are the most common injuries Uber accident victims often get:
- Whiplash — This is a form of soft-tissue neck injury that happens when the head is jolted in one direction and back again. It is common in rear-end collision victims.
- Back Injuries — Back muscle pain typically happens when there is traumatic force. Moreover, back injuries may also include broken backbones.
- Head Injuries — Head injuries are among the most dangerous injuries in an Uber accident.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — Damages to the muscles, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, and other soft tissues in the body can range in severity.
- Bone Fractures — The recovery time for broken bones depends on the severity of the injury. Crushed bones require surgery and take months to years to completely heal.
- Burn Injuries — Exposure to fire or extreme heat can cause burn injuries. They are categorized from first-degree to third-degree burns.
- Loss of Limb/Amputation — These can happen when a part of the body is cut off during the accident. Amputation may be required if there is extreme and irreversible damage to a limb.
- Internal Bleeding — This can be challenging to diagnose without proper examination. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Paralysis — This refers to the loss of movement that a damaged spinal cord can cause.
Common Causes Of Uber Accidents
Similar to other car crash cases, negligence plays a major role in Uber accident claims. As such, knowing the cause of your collision may be beneficial to your Calaveras Uber accident lawyers.
Some of the common causes of Uber accidents are:
- Distracted Driving — Most of the time, Uber drivers are looking at a GPS app while driving. Scanning for passengers will also take their eyes off the road. Unfortunately, these are dangerous acts and can lead to car collisions. Our car accident lawyers can help you explore your options.
- Driving While Fatigued — Drivers’ incomes typically depend on how many trips they make. To boost their income, some Uber drivers may skip rest and sleep. However, driving while fatigued may impair cognitive function, which can lead to accidents.
- Risky Behaviors — These include speeding to pick up or drop off passengers on time and ignoring traffic signs.
- Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol — A considerable percentage of car collisions and crashes are DUI cases. Drugs and alcohol can affect decision-making and perception, which increases the chances of accidents. Driving while drunk or on drugs is illegal in the United States.
- Vehicle Maintenance Issues — Vehicles should be regularly checked and maintained. Tires should be changed if there are signs of wear. Drivers should properly inspect engines to avoid problems on the road. Most importantly, they have to check the brakes and ensure they work every time they go out.
- Bad Weather Conditions — Rain and snow, especially at night, can cause visibility issues. Roads are slippery, too. That is why drivers should be more careful when driving under these conditions.
Who May Be Responsible For Damages In Calaveras Uber Accidents?
Uber accidents are complicated because there is always the question of whether the company is also responsible aside from the driver. The answer depends on when and how the accident happened.
Simply put, Uber drivers are not employees. They are considered to be independent contractors by the company. This consideration allows the company to contest the extent of its liability in case of an accident. Nevertheless, this technicality does not entirely absolve the rideshare service. Our Calaveras Uber accident attorneys can help establish who may be liable in your case.
Here are the parties that may be liable in an Uber accident:
- Uber Driver — Uber drivers may be held liable if there is proof that their actions caused the accident. It does not matter if they are logged in on the app or are off-duty.
- Uber — The ridesharing company may be accountable if the Uber driver is working at the time of the accident. This could happen when the Uber driver is online and available for a trip, en route to a passenger, or during a trip.
- Third-Party Driver — Another driver can be held liable if they caused or contributed to the accident.
- Vehicle Part Manufacturer — Traffic accidents can happen because of a vehicle malfunction. The car manufacturer may be held liable if the car or a defective car part caused the accident.
- Local Government — Plaintiffs can pursue a claim against the local government of Calaveras County if the Uber accident is caused by poorly maintained roads, inadequate signs, or faulty traffic lights.
Establishing Liability In An Uber Accident
To establish liability, our Calaveras attorneys for Uber accidents must demonstrate that negligence led to the incident. There are four elements to negligence, and your lawyer will have to show that:
- The defendant had a duty of care.
- The defendant breached that duty.
- The defendant’s action caused the plaintiff’s injuries.
- The plaintiff’s injuries led to damages.
Our lawyers can help establish negligence through vital pieces of evidence, including police and medical reports. That is why we do a thorough investigation to support your claim. Demonstrating the defendant’s negligence may establish grounds for seeking compensation for the losses or injuries you suffered.
What Damages Can You Pursue In An Uber Accident?
If your Calaveras Uber accident lawyers have established liability, you are now one step closer to pursuing compensation for the various losses the accident caused. Settlements are intended to compensate victims following an accident.
You can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Medical Expenses — This includes hospital bills, medications, treatments, rehabilitation, and medical equipment you require while recovering. Additionally, this may account for both current and future medical expenses until you have fully recovered.
- Lost Income — You probably cannot go to work because of your injuries. Lawyers may consider lost wages when estimating the potential settlement value.
- Lost Future Earnings — Severe injuries may have a lasting impact that disables you from earning future income. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to pursue compensation for reduced earning capacity.
- Disabilities or Disfigurement — Life-changing injuries can cause disabilities or disfigurement that could require specialized help. For example, amputees may require prosthetics or specialized equipment to help them move around.
- Pain and Suffering — Since this non-economic damage does not have a set value, it is up to your Calaveras Uber accident attorneys to estimate the financial compensation for your pain and suffering. This is usually done by assessing how the injuries impacted your way of life. Your physical injuries could be proof of this, along with a diagnosis of a mental issue caused by the accident.
Does Uber Provide Liability Coverage For An Accident?
Uber provides liability coverage only when the driver is using the app for work-related activity. The type and amount of coverage depend on the driver’s “period” at the time of the crash.
- Period 1 — This applies when the driver is online and waiting for a ride request but has not yet been matched with a passenger. Uber’s third-party liability coverage may apply if the driver is at fault. The policy limits are up to:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person.
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident.
- $25,000 for property damage per accident.
- Period 2 and Period 3
- Period 2 — The driver has accepted a trip and is en route to pick up the passenger.
- Period 3 — The passenger is inside the vehicle and the trip is in progress.
During these periods, Uber provides up to $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage if the Uber driver is found to be at fault. Additional coverages, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) and contingent comprehensive/collision (with a deductible), may also apply, depending on the circumstances.
Our Uber accident attorneys in Calaveras can help assess the available insurance coverage, negotiate with the insurers involved, and pursue compensation based on the facts of your case.
What If The Uber Driver Was Not Logged Into The Uber App?
When an Uber driver is not logged into the app, they are considered off-duty. This is sometimes referred to as “Period 0.” During this time, Uber’s insurance does not apply because the driver is not engaged in any rideshare activity.
If a crash occurs in this period, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy is the primary source of coverage.
Under the California Insurance Code §11580.1b, a private driver’s liability insurance policy must provide at least:
- $30,000 for injury/death to one person.
- $60,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
- $15,000 for damage to property.
These are minimum coverage amounts, and some drivers may carry higher limits. The availability of additional compensation depends on the facts of the crash, the driver’s policy, and any other potentially responsible parties.
What To Do After An Uber Accident In Calaveras, CA
Uber accidents can happen while you are using the service or when an on-duty Uber driver hits you. Regardless of how it happened, the consequences can be traumatic. Our Uber accident lawyers in Calaveras encourage you to stay as calm as possible and recommend taking the following steps, if you are physically able, to help protect your future claim:
Prioritize Your Safety
Check yourself for any injuries. Then, check your companions as well. If possible, try to move to a safer location. However, if you have severe injuries, such as broken bones, do not move and wait for rescue.
Contact The Authorities
Once you have moved to safety, call 911. Stay on the scene and wait until the Calaveras police arrive. Cooperate and tell them everything you remember. Be as detailed as possible, but avoid giving comments that are not based on facts. Uber accident lawyers in Calaveras may advise you to refrain from admitting fault or blaming yourself for the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
Get evaluated by emergency responders when they arrive. Even if you feel fine, it may be helpful to receive an initial medical assessment. Some symptoms can take time to appear, and a prompt evaluation can help document any potential injuries and provide clarity about your condition.
Exchange Details
Exchange details with the Uber driver and get their full name, contact details, and insurance information. Take a photo of their driver’s license. If there are other parties involved, such as another driver, obtain their details as well.
Gather Evidence
Gather as much evidence as you can. Take pictures and videos of the scene, including the damage and injuries sustained. Additionally, photograph the Uber car’s license plate number, the surroundings, street markers, signs, and the traffic.
Report The Incident To Uber
Immediately notify Uber of the accident. To do this, open Uber’s app, go to “Help,” and then choose the relevant trip. Report the facts of the accident in detail without admitting any guilt.
Contact Our Calaveras Uber Accident Attorneys
Call our Uber accident lawyers in Calaveras at Arash Law so we can assist you in filing a personal injury claim. We can advocate for your rights, hold those responsible for your injuries accountable, and help you seek compensation.
December 2016: $22M+ verdict in a mild traumatic brain injury case. The entire details of the case can be found in the public record filings by the defendant entity that sued its defense.– BRIAN BEECHER
Statute Of Limitations For Uber Accident Claims In Calaveras, CA
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Calaveras County and California as a whole is generally two years. This would seem like a long time, but most victims who miss the deadline are those who wait to recover and get out of the hospital to file a claim. Unfortunately, the more severe your injuries are, the longer you may have to stay admitted. The delay may significantly cut your window to file an injury claim or lawsuit.
In circumstances that involve the local government, the deadline is only six months. The deadline is shorter and can limit the time available to bring a claim. It may be helpful to consult our Calaveras Uber accident lawyers to understand the applicable timelines and determine the necessary steps to move your case forward.
Uber Accident Statistics
According to Uber’s 2019 to 2020 safety report, the company’s motor vehicle fatality rate is still half the national average. Moreover, they noted that 99.9% of the trips they made that year were relatively safe. Based on Uber’s data, only 0.1% of the trips had some less severe safety-related reports, including verbal arguments. Meanwhile, only 0.0002% of these trips had critical safety-related reports. The company declared 91 fatal Uber crashes, with 101 deaths.
Furthermore, the company stated that 94% of the fatalities in their report were due to third-party drivers. Thirty-four percent of these deadly accidents were speeding-related; 29 of them involved third-party drivers. Twenty-three fatalities involved DUI, all of which were reportedly non-Uber drivers. However, according to research by the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the arrival of ride-hailing services increased the number of motor vehicle accidents by 3%.
FAQs About Uber Accidents
Do I Need A Lawyer If I Am Involved In An Uber Accident?
If you’re in a traffic accident involving Uber and you’re suffering from injuries, talk to Arash Law’s personal injury lawyers in Calaveras, who handle Uber accidents. We can help you file a personal injury claim against the at-fault parties, which may include the rideshare company.
Should I Contact Uber's Insurance Company?
It is wise to avoid communicating with any insurer on your own. Uber works with a third-party liability insurance company, which may call victims to negotiate. Although this might seem helpful, early settlement offers often fail to account for current and future accident-related losses. Insurers can also argue that the Uber driver, who usually has less coverage than the company, is responsible.
If an insurance adjuster calls you, it is advisable to decline the conversation politely and ask them to speak with your attorney instead. Contact our Calaveras Uber accident attorneys and let us handle negotiations on your behalf.
Contact Our Uber Accident Attorneys In Calaveras!
Uber provides a convenient way for many people to travel without having to drive. However, rideshare-related crashes are on the rise as the number of vehicles on the road increases. Our personal injury lawyer can help you seek compensation if you’ve been injured in an Uber accident.
Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., offers a free case review to address your questions and concerns about your case. Our Calaveras Uber accident attorneys can assess whether or not you have a valid claim and discuss your options.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 or use our online contact form. We also offer our assistance to Uber victims in Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Sonora, Groveland, Placerville, Elk Grove, and South Lake Tahoe.
