Baldwin Park Uber Accident Lawyers
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Our Baldwin Park Uber Accident Lawyers Can Help You Understand The Claims Process
Uber is a popular transportation option in cities such as Baldwin Park. The high number of Uber drivers in the area indicates a growing local economy. However, this also leads to a concerning increase in road accidents. If you’ve been injured while using the rideshare service, our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers can help you file a personal injury claim. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for free accident lawyer advice.
What attracts many to Baldwin Park, aside from spots like Arcadia Wilderness Park and the Original In-N-Out Burger Museum, is the abundance of business and job opportunities. The city fosters a diverse economy, housing both small and medium-sized enterprises alongside international manufacturing companies. These companies include Universal Plastic Mold, Motek Industries, and Lighting Technologies International.
Rideshare companies, especially Uber, are thriving in Baldwin Park due to the high demand for transportation for both leisure activities and work commutes. However, this growth has been accompanied by a concerning rise in Lyft and Uber-related accidents.
If you’re injured because of someone else’s negligence, our Uber accident lawyers in Baldwin Park can help you understand your rights and legal options.
Our client was a loyal rideshare driver involved in a hit-and-run. The at-fault driver struck our client and fled the scene. After years of litigating in Arbitration for the Underinsured Motorist policy, our co-counselor Kevin Levian set up the case perfectly for an arbitration trial. Ultimately, the case was resolved for the maximum policy limits one week before the arbitration.– BRIAN BEECHER
Why Hire Our Baldwin Park Uber Accident Lawyers
Our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers provide legal representation and guidance in rideshare-related injury claims. Here’s what our team offers:
- Knowledge of Ridesharing Laws — Our personal injury lawyers handle a wide range of car accident cases, including ridesharing claims. Uber accident cases are more complicated to handle due to the liability issues, insurance policies, and regulations specific to ridesharing incidents. Our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers have years of experience navigating these legal challenges, and this background has equipped them with the knowledge and skills to effectively advocate on behalf of clients.
- Pursue Fair Compensation — Our Baldwin Park Uber accident attorneys will carefully review the evidence and may consult with qualified professionals to assess the full extent of your injuries, including their current and anticipated impact on your life. They assist in estimating the value of your claim and advocate for compensation that reflects your losses.
- Client Communication and Support — As part of our onboarding process, we will assign you a case manager. They will keep you informed about the progress of your claim. You can reach out to them with questions about your Uber accident or any other concerns that we can help you with.
- Claim Preparation and Negotiation — While you focus on recovery, our Uber accident lawyers will handle the legal matters of your case, including gathering evidence, communicating with the parties involved, and negotiating with insurance companies.
- Coordination with Medical Professionals — We can help connect you with medical providers to support the diagnosis, treatment, and documentation of any injuries you sustained in the accident.
- Contingency Fee Arrangement — Our Baldwin Park attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you won’t be charged any attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. Please note that certain case-related costs may still apply.
- Language Support — To accommodate clients from diverse backgrounds, our legal team offers language support and can arrange for translators, allowing clients to communicate in their preferred language. Our firm provides legal representation to individuals in California regardless of their immigration status.
Common Causes Of Uber Accidents
Just like typical car crashes, Uber accidents can also happen for various reasons. Here are some of the most common causes of accidents involving rideshare vehicles:
Distracted Driving
While all motorists are susceptible to distracted driving, Uber drivers face some unique challenges in managing distractions. Using phones, for example, is one of the main factors contributing to traffic injuries and fatalities, yet it’s essential to their jobs. They are more inclined to check on their smartphones to manage bookings, communicate with passengers, and use navigation apps while driving.
In 2022, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) recorded 148 road fatalities attributed to distracted drivers. This figure highlights the ongoing dangers of distracted driving-related incidents on the road.
Speeding And Reckless Driving
Uber drivers are typically paid per ride rather than receiving a fixed salary. This structure may incentivize some drivers to complete trips more quickly, potentially leading to unsafe behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, or making unsafe maneuvers.
These behaviors increase the risk of collisions. Speeding, in particular, is a well-documented factor in motor vehicle accidents that result in injuries or deaths. In 2023, for example, 29% of total traffic fatalities nationwide were attributed to overspeeding.
Fatigued Or Drowsy Driving
Many rideshare drivers work irregular or extended hours, and some begin driving after completing full-time jobs or overnight shifts. Driving while fatigued can significantly impair a driver’s ability to focus, react, and make sound decisions behind the wheel.
While not a traffic violation in itself, drowsy driving is considered a serious safety concern. Studies have shown that its effects can be comparable to those of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including delayed reaction times and decreased situational awareness.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a well-documented risk factor for traffic collisions. These substances can impair a driver’s concentration, judgment, reaction time, and coordination. Effects may also include reduced vision, increased risk-taking behavior, and diminished awareness of surroundings, all of which significantly raise the likelihood of an accident.
According to OTS, there were 751 fatalities related to drug-impaired driving in California in 2021. Meanwhile, 1,355 people died in alcohol-involved car crashes in 2023.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a collision involving an impaired driver, consider reaching out to Arash Law. Our Uber accident lawyers also handle DUI cases in Baldwin Park.
Driving In Poor Weather Conditions
Although California is known for its dry climate, weather-related hazards still pose risks. For instance, when rain falls after extended dry periods, oil and debris on the road can mix with water, creating slippery surfaces that reduce tire traction. This may cause drivers to lose control and crash into other vehicles.
Worn windshield wipers or degraded tires can further impair visibility and control during adverse weather conditions. High temperatures can also deteriorate rubber components, including wiper blades, which may contribute to unsafe driving in sudden rain.
Failing To Maintain Cars Properly
Uber drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles in a safe and operable condition. However, ongoing maintenance may be delayed or overlooked due to long hours or inconsistent schedules. While Uber requires an initial vehicle inspection during the application process, there is limited oversight of ongoing maintenance.
Neglecting essential components, such as brakes, tires, and lights, can lead to mechanical failures. Tire blowouts and brake malfunctions, in particular, can result in serious accidents affecting not only passengers but also other drivers and pedestrians.
Our accident attorneys can help if you have been injured in an Uber in Baldwin Park. We can help determine if the driver was negligent and whether other factors contributed to your accident.
Common Injuries In Uber Accidents
Our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers have represented victims with different types of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Some examples are:
- Head & Brain Injuries — These may result in symptoms like extreme headaches, nausea, speech problems, dizziness, loss of balance, and blurred vision.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Victims who sustain these injuries might experience reduced mobility, requiring significant adjustments to their daily lives. Severe cases that lead to paralysis and loss of bowel or bladder control can further affect their independence and overall well-being.
- Whiplash — While whiplash is commonly regarded as minor, it can still cause inconvenience. It affects work, sleep, and overall comfort. In some cases, it can lead to nerve damage, which can have more serious complications.
- Broken Bones — Fractures range from hairline breaks to shattered bones, causing pain and swelling. If the injury develops into a serious infection, the victim might have to get the limb amputated.
- Internal Bleeding — Doctors often use X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to diagnose internal hemorrhages. These lab tests are incredibly expensive.
- Mental Trauma — Psychological conditions also have a profound effect on a person’s way of life. An Uber passenger, for example, might develop PTSD and struggle to ride in cars again.
- Wrongful Deaths — When an Uber crash leads to death, the surviving family members would have to deal with the funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional impact of the loss of a loved one.
Injuries from Uber accidents, no matter how minor, often result in physical and financial damages. Victims may have to take time off from work to recover and face piling medical bills. Our Uber accident lawyers in Baldwin Park have helped clients pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and related losses.
What Types Of Compensation Are Available In Uber Accident Claims?
If you have been injured in an Uber accident, you may be able to seek economic and non-economic damages. Our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers can help you estimate your potential compensation.
Economic damages are quantifiable damages or anything that involves monetary values, like:
- Hospital bills
- Therapy bills
- Laboratory fees
- MRIs and X-rays
- Medicines
- Missed salaries
- Transportation fees for medical appointments
- Inability to provide for the needs of their family
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
In contrast, non-economic damages are not easily quantifiable and may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of a partner
- Loss of enjoyment in life
- Loss of a body part
- Bodily disfigurement
- Mental health condition
- Wrongful death
Although non-economic damages are not tied to direct financial costs, they can still be quantified for the purposes of a personal injury claim. Our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers may work with medical professionals and financial consultants to assess the impact of pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. This analysis can support your claim for compensation.
Understanding Uber Accidents And Their Legal Implications
A Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyer provides legal insight into the complex issues surrounding rideshare-related collisions. Unlike standard traffic accidents, Uber cases often involve additional legal and procedural challenges. Here are a few that we have to consider when building a case:
Liability
Like typical traffic accidents, Uber incidents might have other parties that can be held liable for your injuries. These potentially liable parties include the driver, Uber itself, the vehicle or car parts manufacturer, the maintenance team, other motorists, the government, or even pedestrians.
Liability assessment in rideshare cases is more complex due to the legal classification of Uber drivers as independent contractors. This distinction can limit Uber’s direct responsibility in some cases, as the company is not considered the driver’s employer under California law.
Our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers can handle cases involving multiple parties. In such scenarios, it may be necessary to pursue claims against all responsible entities to seek full compensation for damages.
Comparative Negligence
California follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that an injured party may still pursue damages even if they are partially at fault for the accident. However, their total compensation will be reduced in proportion to their share of the blame. When multiple defendants are involved, each party is assigned a percentage of fault. Their financial responsibility will correspond to that percentage.
For example, in a car accident, the Uber driver is 50% to blame, another driver 40%, and the plaintiff 10%. If the claim is worth $100,000, the plaintiff may only obtain $90,000 after subtracting their 10% liability. The other two parties will be responsible for compensating the victim according to their percentage of fault.
In such cases, a Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyer can present evidence, address liability claims against the injured party, and clarify the responsibility of all involved.
Uber’s Insurance Policy Coverage
Uber provides third-party liability insurance for its drivers, but the availability and coverage depend on the period during which the incident occurred.
Period 0 – Driver Is Offline
If a driver gets into an accident while logged out of the app, Uber will not be held accountable. The victim and their Uber accident lawyer will have to file a claim with the driver’s auto insurance provider.
Period 1 – Driver Is Logged In The App; Awaiting Passenger
Uber’s insurance coverage is $50,000 for bodily injury per person, up to $100,000 for bodily injury per accident, and up to $25,000 for property damage per accident.
Period 2 – Driver Is Driving To The Pick-Up Point
The insurance coverage is up to $1,000,000 for the total liability, up to $1,000,000 for accidents caused by underinsured and uninsured motorists, and additional coverage if a driver secures comprehensive and collision coverage on their personal auto policy.
Period 3 – Driver Is Transporting The Passenger
The insurance coverage in this phase is the same as in Period 2.
An Uber accident in Baldwin Park can assist in dealing with Uber’s insurance adjusters, clarify how coverage applies, and support you through negotiations or litigation if disputes arise over liability or compensation.
What Should You Do After An Uber Accident?
Following the right steps after an Uber accident is critical. It can protect your health, legal rights, and ability to pursue compensation.
Here are some steps to consider taking following an Uber crash:
- Check yourself for wounds and injuries.
- If possible, go to a safer place by the roadside. But do not leave the accident scene.
- Call 911 for police and medical assistance.
- Collect evidence, like photos and videos of your injury, the area where the Uber accident occurred, and the vehicles involved.
- Ask for the Uber driver’s complete name, address, phone number, and insurance details.
- File a report with Uber. You can report via the Uber app if you’re a passenger.
- Report the accident to your insurance company.
- Go to the ER or the nearest clinic after the accident for thorough medical examinations.
- Contact a Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyer. They can explain your rights and guide you through the claims process.
- Do not admit fault, especially when talking to the police or insurance adjusters. When describing the accident, stick to the facts. Even a simple apology, such as saying “I’m sorry,” could be misinterpreted as taking responsibility for the crash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I Not Use Social Media After An Uber Accident?
After an Uber accident, it’s generally advisable to limit your activity on social media until your claim is fully resolved. Insurance companies and legal representatives may review public online content to better understand the details surrounding the incident.
Even posts that seem harmless or unrelated, like photos from a social event or comments about your daily routine, might be interpreted in ways that could impact how your injuries or experiences are perceived. This could potentially influence the outcome of your claim.
Consider consulting a Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyer after a crash. They can guide you on what to do to protect your claim.
How Long Do I Have To File My Uber Accident Claim?
According to the California statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.
There are, however, exceptions to this rule. For example, the statute of limitations can be paused or delayed if the victim is a minor or if the defendant is in prison. In cases of delayed discovery of injuries, the deadline is extended, starting instead from the date the victim discovered them.
Any delays could invalidate your claim, even if you have solid evidence against the negligent parties. If you need help filing a claim, our Uber accident lawyers in Baldwin Park are available to provide legal guidance and support.
I Did Not Sustain An Injury After An Uber Accident. Should I See A Doctor?
It is advisable to seek medical evaluation after an Uber accident, even if you do not immediately feel injured. Some injuries, such as concussions, soft tissue damage, or internal trauma, may not present symptoms right away. A prompt medical assessment can help identify any underlying conditions and provide documentation that may be relevant if symptoms appear later. Delaying medical care could complicate both your recovery and any potential injury claim.
How Much Is My Uber Accident Claim Worth?
The value of an Uber accident claim depends on several factors specific to the incident. These may include the severity of your injuries, the extent of medical treatment required, the impact on your ability to work, and the emotional or psychological toll of the accident. Property damage and out-of-pocket expenses may also contribute to the overall claim value.
Other considerations include who was at fault, the available insurance coverage, and how clearly liability can be established. Each case is different, so the outcome will depend on the unique facts involved and the supporting evidence presented.
Our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers can help gather evidence, assess the full scope of damages, and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Get Legal Help From Our Uber Accident Lawyers In Baldwin Park
Seeking legal representation following an Uber crash can ease the burden of navigating the claims process and allow you to focus on your recovery. A lawyer can manage the legal aspects of your case, including communication with insurers and gathering necessary evidence.
If you are thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers can assist you in pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and related losses. If an Uber driver hits your vehicle, our attorneys can also help seek reimbursement for repair or replacement costs.
Call us and connect with our Baldwin Park Uber accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation. If you are unable to visit us, we can arrange a meeting at a time and location in California that is convenient for you.
Our Uber accident lawyers also serve clients in neighboring areas, such as Monterey Park, West Covina, Pasadena, Anaheim, San Marino, Rosemead, Whittier, Arcadia, Duarte, Montebello, Walnut, Charter Oak, Azusa, Valinda, and Citrus.
