Imperial County Uber Accident Lawyers
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Imperial County Uber Accident Lawyers Offering Legal Advocacy For Life’s Tough Moments
Through Uber, passengers can connect with drivers who aim to provide safe and convenient transportation. However, Uber is not immune to accidents. If you get into an Uber crash, you may have the right to seek compensation from the negligent parties. Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers can help establish their liability and pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Imperial County is rich in cultural and outdoor activities, with Uber offering a convenient way for both tourists and residents to explore the region. Unfortunately, Uber’s popularity has led to more vehicles on the road, increased traffic congestion, and a higher rate of accidents.
Injured in an Uber collision? Reach out to our Uber accident attorneys in Imperial County. We are familiar with rideshare laws and have decades of experience advocating for the rights of injured victims.
Why Bring Your Case To Our Imperial County Uber Accident Lawyers
Uber accidents can have far-reaching consequences. On top of recovering from their injuries, victims may also have to go through a lengthy legal process to pursue damages. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers can help you navigate the complex claims process.
Our Imperial County injury law firm has experience handling Uber accident claims. We are prepared to manage your case. From establishing liability to seeking compensation from the negligent parties, we will work to advocate for your interests. Our team will explore all available legal avenues to help you seek compensation for your losses.
Furthermore, victims often face challenges communicating with insurance companies. Without the necessary evidence to support your claim, they may have grounds to dispute your losses or deny liability. Our Imperial County Uber accident attorneys can help you overcome these hurdles. We’ll help you gather evidence to demonstrate your losses and help advocate for your rights throughout the process.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
What Our Uber Accident Attorneys Can Do For You
You might be thinking, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to handle my Uber accident claim?” Uber collisions tend to be more complicated than the more traditional cases handled by our car accident lawyers. The former typically involves multiple parties, adding an extra layer of complexity to the case, as the responsibility of each party needs to be addressed.
Our Imperial County attorneys have handled many cases involving Uber accidents. We have skilled attorneys who can help you deal with these issues. We can be your legal advocates, helping you get through this difficult time. Here are some of the ways we can help you:
- Lead an Independent Investigation — Our team can evaluate the incident to help establish the negligence of the at-fault parties. We can gather all available relevant evidence, such as witness testimonies, police reports, and surveillance footage, to verify the facts and support your claim.
- Assess Your Damages — After sustaining injuries in an Uber collision, you may be able to file a claim for your medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and pain and suffering. Our attorneys can help you assess the extent of your damages and seek the compensation you deserve in line with both state law and the available evidence for your case.
- Negotiate With Insurance Companies — Dealing with insurance companies can be difficult. Our lawyers can handle communications with insurers on your behalf. We’ll negotiate for an offer that reflects the extent of your losses.
- Represent You in Court — If a settlement can’t be reached through negotiations, our attorneys can study whether it will be necessary to initiate a trial. We can present well-supported arguments and advocate for your rights in court.
Common Causes Of Uber Accidents
Traffic collisions can happen for various reasons. Although no two accidents are the same, here are some of the most common factors that cause Uber accidents:- Driving while distracted.
- Fatigued or drowsy driving.
- Exceeding the speed limit.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Abruptly shifting lanes.
- Making improper turns.
- Disregarding traffic signals and road signs.
- Mechanical failures like tire blowouts.
- Dangerous road conditions, such as potholes and uneven pavement.
Hurt In An Uber Accident?
Injuries Sustained By Victims In Uber Accidents
Uber crashes can lead to various injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers can help victims who sustain one or more of these common injuries:
- Whiplash — This injury happens when the neck jolts back and forth, typically due to a sudden stop. Whiplash can result in persistent neck pain, vertigo, and headaches that may last for weeks or even months, affecting your ability to work and earn income.
- Head & Brain Injuries — In an accident, the occupant’s head can be violently thrown against the interior structure of the vehicle, causing head and brain injuries. Mild concussions can heal over time. However, severe cases can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can lead to long-term cognitive issues with corresponding financial challenges.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Victims of spinal cord injuries often require extensive physical rehabilitation to regain mobility and function. This can involve multiple therapy sessions, assistive devices such as wheelchairs or braces, and modifications to their living spaces to accommodate mobility limitations. That generally means an increased financial burden.
- Fractures — Broken bones can cause persistent pain and mobility issues that could lead to high treatment costs.
- Cuts & Lacerations — Cuts from shattered glass or other debris might seem minor, but they might lead to serious complications. Open wounds are prone to infections, while deep cuts can lead to severe blood loss. These injuries could also result in scarring and disfigurement.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — The strong impact of an Uber accident can cause soft tissue injuries. These include bruises and strained or torn ligaments, muscles, and tendons. While minor cases heal on their own, serious ones can lead to long-term discomfort and mobility issues.
These injuries can significantly impact your personal injury claim. If you need help calculating the compensation that may be available to you, an experienced attorney can help you estimate the potential value of your claim.
Liability For Uber Accidents
Determining who is responsible for an Uber accident can be challenging. Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers can help you identify whether one or more of these parties is responsible for your losses.
- Uber Drivers — Uber drivers must take reasonable care to transport their passengers safely to their drop-off location. They may be liable for an accident if they engage in reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding and distracted driving.
- Uber — Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors. This distinction puts Uber in a position that often limits its direct liability. However, the company may still be held liable when negligence or misconduct on its part causes or contributes to an accident. For example, the rideshare company is required to thoroughly screen applicants to avoid hiring drivers with histories of violations and criminal activities. If it fails to meet this obligation, it may be responsible for the resulting damages.
- Third-Party Motorists — Other reckless drivers might also cause Uber accidents. Similar to rideshare drivers, they can also commit driving errors. In these cases, they can be held accountable for the injuries and losses sustained by victims.
- Auto Manufacturers — Manufacturers have a legal responsibility to ensure that their products are safe and reliable. If the injured party can establish that there was a defect in the part that caused a mechanical breakdown, the manufacturer or distributor may have to compensate them for their losses.
Government Offices — Inadequate signage or poor road conditions can also contribute to accidents. If you get into a rideshare incident due to dangerous road conditions, you may file a claim against the government office responsible for ensuring safe streets and highways.
Proving Liability In Uber Accident Cases
When an Uber accident occurs, determining liability can be a complex process. In order to establish negligence and fault, four key elements must be proven.
- Duty of Care — The plaintiff must show that the defendant owed them a duty of care. For instance, Uber drivers must exercise the utmost care and vigilance when transporting passengers. They must comply with federal, state, and local rideshare and traffic laws at all times.
- Breach of Duty — Next, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant failed to fulfill their duty of care. An example is when an Uber driver uses their phone even while driving to monitor ride requests on the app.
- Causation — The plaintiff must also establish that the accident would not have occurred if the at-fault party had not breached their duty of care.
- Damages — Finally, the plaintiff must prove that they suffered injuries and damages from the Uber accident. They must present documentation establishing their tangible and intangible losses, such as medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Demonstrating negligence in an Uber accident requires evidence. Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers can interview witnesses, analyze police reports, and consult with expert witnesses. We can also work with accident reconstruction specialists, economists, and medical professionals to support your claim.
Understanding Uber’s Insurance Policy
In some scenarios, Uber provides liability coverage for accidents caused by its drivers. Coverage depends on the status of the Uber driver when the accident happened. Here’s how Uber’s insurance works:
Period 0
The Uber driver is offline on the app. The at-fault driver’s auto insurance should cover the victim’s damages if an accident occurs during this period.
Period 1
The Uber driver is online and available to accept ride requests. If a collision happens at this time, Uber’s commercial liability insurance may compensate victims for their damages. It may cover up to $50,000 per injured person, $100,000 for all injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
Period 2
The Uber driver is en route to pick up a passenger. Uber provides coverage of up to $1 million during this period.
Period 3
The Uber driver is on a trip. If they are involved in an accident during this period, the same coverage provided in Period 2 will take effect.
It’s important to note that any victim, whether a passenger, cyclist, pedestrian, or motorist, can potentially file a claim for compensation against Uber. The rideshare company may also extend assistance for cases involving uninsured/underinsured motorists. However, the amount they’re able to pursue will likely differ from the policy limits listed above.
Our Uber accident attorneys in Imperial County can investigate the incident and tell you whether Uber’s third-party liability insurance can cover the damages you suffered in a related traffic incident. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to get started.
Recoverable Damages In Uber Accidents
Under California law, injured victims of Uber accidents may have the right to pursue compensation from the at-fault parties. Depending on the severity of your injuries and the extent of your losses, the following damages may be available in your case:
- Current and future medical expenses.
- Costs of mobility aids and ongoing care.
- Lost wages and loss of capacity to earn.
- Repair and replacement costs of damaged property.
- Other incidental expenses, including transportation to the hospital and law firm for accident-related business.
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of consortium or companionship.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
In addition to economic and non-economic damages, local courts in Imperial County may also award punitive damages in certain cases. Although this rarely happens, judges grant these damages when they find defendants guilty of malicious intent and gross negligence. Unlike compensatory damages, which solely cover the victims’ losses, punitive damages are meant to punish offenders and deter others from engaging in similar behaviors.
Consult our Uber accident attorneys in Imperial County to assess the damages that may be available to you. We can look into the specifics of the event, taking into account every injury and loss you suffered. We can also calculate the potential value of your claim, which we can use when negotiating with insurance companies.
Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one can be a difficult experience, especially when it results from unexpected and otherwise preventable events like Uber accidents. Under California law, eligible surviving family members can seek compensation through a wrongful death claim. This legal action allows the deceased’s legal heirs or next of kin to file a claim for the following damages:
- Funeral and Burial Expenses
- Medical Bills
- Emotional Distress
- Mental Anguish
- Loss of Companionship
- Loss of Potential Income
- Disrupted Family Relationship
Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers are also experienced in handling wrongful death claims. We can provide legal guidance and support to help you navigate this complex task.
What To Do After An Uber Accident
Uber collisions can leave victims overwhelmed and confused about what to do next. However, you need to act decisively to stay safe and protect your legal rights. Here are some examples of steps you can take before getting in touch with our Uber accident lawyers in Imperial County:
- Check for Injuries — If someone is hurt, call 911 to get medical and police assistance. It’s also important to visit your doctor later. Even if you feel fine, you may have underlying injuries.
- Document the Accident Scene — Take photos of the vehicles involved, your injuries, and road signs in the area. Additionally, exchange information with other parties. At the very least, get their names, contact numbers, vehicle details, and insurance information.
- Report to Uber — The rideshare company encourages passengers and drivers to do so through its app. Third-party motorists may submit a notice by completing Uber’s online form.
- Inform Your Insurance Company — They can provide advice on medical coverage and any potential claims. However, be wary when speaking with them because you might accidentally say something that could hurt a potential compensation claim. Avoid accepting offers or signing anything without talking to a lawyer.
- Seek Legal Assistance From Arash Law — Our Imperial County Uber accident attorneys have decades of experience representing victims’ legal rights. We are committed to advocating for compensation that may address your losses. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Statute Of Limitations For Uber Accident Claims
Victims have two years from the accident date to file a case. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation through a lawsuit.
Although two years might seem like a long time, it is essential to act as soon as possible, especially since some exceptions could extend or shorten this deadline in your case. Contact our Imperial County Uber accident attorneys soon after an accident. Doing so could give us enough time to conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and prepare your case.
Uber Accident Statistics
Uber has experienced substantial growth since its launch. From 2021 to 2022, it completed over 1.8 billion trips nationwide. This figure is equivalent to more than 2.5 million rides daily or roughly 30 rides per second.
The rideshare company said it implemented several measures to ensure its passengers’ safety, such as conducting a multistep safety screening process and monitoring rides for unusual activities. These efforts have encouraged more passengers nationwide to use the rideshare service. As a result, the number of road crashes has decreased significantly. In fact, a 2023 study found that traffic fatalities dropped by 5.2% in areas where Uber operates.
Despite these positive developments, rideshare accidents still occur. Uber’s latest report revealed that 0.0002% of its trips had safety issues. Specifically, it recorded 153 motor vehicle fatalities, reflecting a rate of 0.87 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT). These incidents were primarily attributed to the risky driving behaviors of third-party drivers.
While this percentage is significantly low, with 99.9998% of trips ending without any safety concerns, the fact that traffic accidents still occur requires attention. Our lawyers in Imperial County are committed to helping victims seek compensation for the consequences of Uber accidents. We offer skilled legal services to advocate for their potential right to pursue compensation for their losses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Uber Accidents
Should I Get An Attorney After An Uber Accident?
Many victims find hiring an attorney after any accident to be helpful. It may be wise to seek legal guidance from Imperial County attorneys who are experienced in handling Uber accident cases.
Uber’s claim adjusters are already familiar with how settlement negotiations go. They are also backed by a legal team adept at managing insurance claims. We can offer similar support to assist you in pursuing compensation. Call our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 to learn more about how we can help you.
What Should I Bring To The Initial Consultation With My Uber Accident Lawyer?
When meeting with our Uber accident attorneys in Imperial County, provide them with the evidence you gathered. You can provide copies of the following:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene.
- Dashcam and surveillance footage showing how the collision happened.
- An accident report.
- Medical reports.
- Bills and invoices for out-of-pocket expenses.
- Names, contact numbers, and insurance details of the involved parties.
Don’t worry if you don’t have these pieces of evidence. Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers can conduct an independent investigation. If necessary, we can consult with experts in various fields to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation and identify any potential contributing factors.
Do I Need To Seek Medical Treatment After An Uber Accident?
After an Uber accident, it’s crucial to seek medical help right away to treat your injuries. Skipping this step could lead to insurance companies undervaluing or denying responsibility for your injuries, as delaying medical care could imply that the physical harm you suffered was not serious enough to require immediate treatment.
Our Imperial County lawyers can assist you in filing your Uber accident claim, which may help cover these out-of-pocket expenses.
Can I Sue Uber For An Accident?
Yes, you can sue Uber if there is evidence that its negligence may have contributed to your accident. Under California law, victims have the right to hold the responsible parties accountable for any damages. Generally, you’ll need to file a claim with Uber’s insurance company to pursue compensation after an accident. However, you can also take legal action against Uber under certain circumstances. For instance, Lyft may be liable if it was negligent in conducting a background check on a driver who caused an accident.
For legal guidance, consult our Uber accident attorneys in Imperial County. We can guide you through the process of seeking compensation from at-fault parties.
How Much Is My Uber Accident Claim Worth?
- The severity of your injuries.
- The extent of your losses.
- Multiple negligent parties are involved.
- Available insurance policies.
- Your contribution to the incident.
Can I Still File A Claim Even If I’m Partly Responsible For An Uber Accident?
Victims who are partially liable for an Uber accident can still file a claim for damages. This is because California operates under the pure comparative negligence rule. Under this legal principle, you can pursue legal action against other negligent parties even if you are up to 99% responsible. Your compensation, however, will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.
For example, the court finds you 23% accountable for an Uber accident that caused you $102,000 in damages. You can only get a maximum of 77% of your damages, or $78,540.
Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers can help you pursue compensation with the pure comparative negligence rule in mind. We can assess your percentage of fault, if any, and calculate the amount of compensation you may pursue.
Who Can File An Uber Accident Claim?
Under California law, victims of Uber accidents have the right to pursue personal injury claims against negligent parties. Whether you’re a rider, third-party motorist, pedestrian, or cyclist, you can pursue compensation for the losses you incurred.
Even if you’re an undocumented immigrant, you can still seek compensation for your injuries. California law prohibits courts from inquiring about the victim’s immigration status. Similarly, defendants cannot use it as a defense to deny liability.
Our Uber accident attorneys in Imperial County can help you understand your rights so you can make informed decisions. Contact us to learn more.
Speak With Our Uber Accident Lawyers In Imperial County
If you or a loved one is injured in an accident involving an Uber vehicle, we are here to help. Our Imperial County Uber accident lawyers have up-to-date knowledge of ridesharing regulations and experience in pursuing compensation for injured clients.
Let us help you seek compensation for your losses. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review. You can also fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
Our attorneys can assist you with your Uber accident claim wherever you are in Imperial County. We also offer our services in Bard, Brawley, Calexico, Calipatria, El Centro, Heber, Holtville, Imperial, Niland, Ocotillo, Palo Verde, Salton City, Seeley, Westmorland, and Winterhaven, as well as throughout the rest of California.
