Berkeley 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.
Berkeley Uber Accident Lawyers Who Turn Injured Victims Into Victors
Uber accidents in Berkeley can result from factors like reckless driving or dangerous road conditions. If someone else’s actions caused your injuries, work with our Berkeley Uber accident lawyers to determine who’s responsible and pursue compensation. For any questions about your legal options, call (888) 488-1391.
In 2023, Berkeley was ranked among the top 50 cities in California with the highest number of fatal and injury crashes, according to UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System. This scenario highlights the significant risks that both pedestrians and drivers encounter in the city. Even something as routine as an Uber ride to work carries the potential for unexpected injury in these risky conditions.
If you’re injured in an Uber accident in Berkeley, our team of attorneys is here to help. We have a proven track record of winning against major corporations, including rideshare services. Our lawyers have won over $500 Million in settlements and awards, helping the injured regain control over their lives.
How Our Berkeley Uber Accident Lawyers Can Help You Win
Our lawyers are dedicated to helping you navigate the claims process after your Uber accident. We stay on top of new laws and regulations related to ridesharing, allowing us to advocate for our client’s rights effectively. Our Berkeley injury law firm is always prepared to stand up to anyone to get the justice and compensation you deserve.
After an Uber accident, you might ask, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Feel free to bring your case to us so we can discuss how we can make a significant difference in your claim. Here are some ways we can help:
- Identifying All Responsible Parties — Our Uber accident lawyers will examine the incident from all angles in order to determine fault, including the carelessness of the driver or the business, the behavior of other road users, the road conditions, and Uber’s policies.
- Calculating Your Damages Accurately — An Uber accident can result in medical bills, missed income, and other non-economic losses in addition to the injuries sustained. Our team knows how to calculate damages to get you the maximum settlement amount.
- Negotiate With Insurance Companies — Negotiations are a crucial aspect of injury claims, especially if the insurance companies offer settlements that are lower than what you truly deserve. Our Uber accident lawyers in Berkeley will build a solid case and present it clearly and persuasively so we can secure the most favorable outcome.
- Represent You In Court — If the other party doesn’t agree on a fair settlement, our litigation attorneys are prepared to take your case to court. We will present evidence, call on witnesses, and make legal arguments to recover what you’re owed.
Our client was driving with his wife and son on a two-lane highway when a drunk driver crossed the double yellow lines, causing a head-on collision that claimed the life of a loving wife and mother.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Client Testimonials
Arash Law is known not only for skills and expertise but also for compassionate service. See what our satisfied clients have to say:
“Very good people! They took care of me like I was family and really kept me informed throughout the whole process! Would highly recommend!”
– David N.
“Thanks for all the help Mr. Khorsandi! I really appreciate your ability to explain things and help me understand the complex world of Law but most importantly the fact that you were very attentive and genuinely showed compassion during my frustrating time.”
– Walt R.
“Thank you! I appreciate your knowledge and expertise with my case. Your office was courtesy [sic] and always willing to help. You were extremely personable and attentive with my case and I thank you for achieving a great settlement.”
– Deepa T.
Want to obtain the justice you deserve? Contact our Berkeley Uber accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 right away. We work on contingency, so you don’t need to pay us anything unless we win your case.
Common Causes Of Uber Accidents
Determining the cause of the accident is one of the first steps in proving negligence and identifying who should compensate you. Our Berkeley Uber injury lawyers take this responsibility seriously. We examine every detail of your case, analyze supporting evidence, and piece together a complete picture of the events leading to the collision.
Like car accidents, Uber collisions can be caused by a variety of factors, including the following:
Distracted Driving
A common cause of Uber accidents is driver distraction, often due to phones, passengers, or GPS systems. When drivers focus on incoming ride requests or navigation, their attention to the road is compromised. Distractions are a common cause of rear-end accidents, possibly resulting in a wide range of injuries. For example, a sudden jolt from a collision could cause whiplash injuries.
Whiplash is mostly considered a minor injury, but in some cases, it can give rise to chronic pain, which may trigger depression. Other symptoms include blurred vision, memory problems, and nerve damage. Injuries like whiplash may be addressed by physical therapy or chiropractic treatments. The costs of these, in turn, may be recovered by your personal injury claim. Contact our Berkeley car accident lawyers with expertise in Uber cases to learn about your rights and options.
Fatigued Driving
Uber drivers often work long hours for extra income, which can result in fatigue and slow reaction times. This also increases the risk of falling asleep at the wheel, which could make them drift off onto the opposite lane and hit another vehicle head-on. Such incidents can produce serious physical harm, like brain and spinal cord injuries. These conditions could then end up as long-term or permanent disabilities, which require costly, ongoing medical care.
The driver can be held responsible for your immediate and future treatment costs. Learn more about your case by reaching out to our attorneys, who specialize in Uber accidents in Berkeley.
Reckless Driving
Some Uber drivers might speed or disregard traffic regulations to complete rides more quickly and increase their earnings. Reckless driving behaviors can lead to accidents, putting not only the passengers but also other road users at risk.
For instance, a hit-and-run driver ran a red light, resulting in a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Sacramento Street and Alcatraz Avenue. The driver of the second vehicle suffered spine and neck fractures. This incident could have been avoided, along with the resulting medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and other damages. The negligent party may be held responsible for the victim’s losses.
If something similar happened in your Uber accident, you may have a valid case. Fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form, and our Uber accident attorneys in Berkeley will get back to you right away.
Failure To Maintain The Vehicle Properly
Uber drivers often use their own vehicles to transport passengers. This means the responsibility for upkeep lies with the driver. If they fail to maintain their cars properly, mechanical malfunctions could occur and lead to an accident.
However, this issue of negligent vehicle maintenance doesn’t just apply to Uber drivers. It also applies to third parties. Say your Uber is hit by a truck. Our lawyers specializing in truck accidents can help you hold the trucking company liable if the collision occurred due to poor truck maintenance.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Accidents are more likely to occur on poorly maintained roads, especially when drivers fail to adapt their driving to the conditions. Factors like potholes, construction zones, and slippery surfaces can drastically affect a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely.
If a driver loses control of their vehicle, an accident could occur and result in injuries. These conditions can cause substantial pain and limit your mobility, affecting your ability to perform daily tasks or enjoy the activities you love. Injuries affect your physical health but can also take a toll on your emotional well-being. Seek help from our Berkeley lawyers for Uber accidents to pursue the compensation you deserve from the negligent party.
Hurt in an Uber Accident?
Determining Negligence And Liability In An Uber Accident
Negligence refers to the failure of an individual or entity to act with the level of care expected of them, injuring another party. In an Uber accident, multiple parties may be negligent and, therefore, liable for your damages. Here are some of them:
- The Uber Driver — If their carelessness resulted in the accident, their personal or commercial auto policy may step in to pay for your damages, depending on their status on the Uber app.
- Uber Technology, Inc. — While Uber isn’t typically responsible for its driver’s negligence, it could face liability in certain circumstances. An example is when Uber fails to ban or suspend a driver with a prior safety report, subsequently harming another passenger.
- Third-Party — Any other person or entity whose negligence resulted in the accident can share responsibility. Some examples include:
- Another careless driver.
- Manufacturer of a defective product.
- The government body responsible for road maintenance.
- The car owner.
To establish that these parties are negligent, you and your Berkeley Uber accident lawyers must prove the following elements:
- The defendant had a duty of care or legal responsibility to ensure your safety.
- They breached that duty by failing to perform the level of care expected of them in a given situation.
- The breach of duty directly led to the accident in which you were injured.
- You suffered damages due to the accident.
At Arash Law, we understand that a strong, methodical strategy is the key to winning your case. Our Uber accident attorneys in Berkeley thoroughly investigate your case and collaborate with professionals to make sure all bases are covered. By pursuing legal action against those at fault for your accident, we can make sure you get the money you deserve.
Available Compensation For Uber Accident Victims
If you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to recover monetary losses. These include:
- Medical expenses
- Medical equipment
- Rehabilitation costs
- Disability accommodations
- Lost income
- Damaged property
- Pain and suffering
- Mental distress
- Permanent disfigurement
- Reduced quality of life
The at-fault party is legally obligated to compensate you for your losses, covering the full amount of the damages. If multiple parties are involved, their financial responsibility toward you corresponds to their percentage of liability. However, if you are partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your degree of responsibility in the accident. For instance, if your total damages amount to $10,000 and you are found to be 30% liable, you would be eligible to claim only $7,000.
Unfortunately, comparative negligence adds to the complexity of personal injury claims. Insurance companies might exaggerate your fault to reduce the amount they owe. Many victims have received less than what they deserved because their case was undervalued.
Our Berkeley Uber accident lawyers won’t let this happen to you. When you hire us, you’re working with one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California. Our attorneys have won over half a billion dollars in settlements and awards for our clients, which showcases our dedication to pursuing the maximum compensation in every case.
Wrongful Death Damages In Uber Accidents
In tragic cases, an Uber accident can result in the loss of a loved one, leaving behind a grieving family facing an uncertain future. The initial step toward healing is often the most challenging, but our Berkeley personal injury lawyers are here to help. While we can never restore your tragic loss, we can assist you in seeking justice and obtaining compensation.
In California, legal heirs can file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. With the help of our Uber accident lawyers in Berkeley, you can obtain damages for:
- Funeral and burial costs.
- Medical expenses prior to death.
- Loss of financial support.
- The monetary value of the deceased’s supposed domestic services.
- Emotional distress.
- Loss of companionship, love, and care.
Uber’s Insurance Policy For Accident Victims
Your compensation will be claimed from the appropriate insurance company. In Uber collisions, this could be the driver’s auto insurance company or Uber’s commercial insurance provider, depending on the driver’s status on the app at the time of the accident.
- Offline — If the driver is logged out of the Uber app, their auto insurance covers the damages they cause.
- Online And Available For A Trip — Uber’s third-party liability insurance applies if the driver causes an accident while logged into the app and waiting for a ride request. It covers up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for injuries. For property damage, it provides up to $30,000.
- En Route Or On A Trip — At either of these stages, Uber provides $1,000,000 for property damage and injuries caused by the driver.
While the coverage amounts may seem substantial, it can be difficult to determine whether you’re eligible and which coverage applies to your case. Let our Berkeley Uber accident lawyers handle this task for you so you can focus on your recovery. With our expertise, we can thoroughly analyze your case and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
What To Do After An Uber Accident
Following an Uber accident, try to stay calm as much as possible. What you do next will lay the foundation for your physical and financial recovery. Here are some important steps to take:
- Check yourself for injuries.
- Call 911 for immediate medical help and assistance from local authorities.
- If you can move, document the scene by taking photos and videos of crucial information, such as:
- Visible injuries
- Property damage
- Skid marks
- Debris from the accident
- Weather
- Road conditions
- Collect information from all involved parties, including the Uber driver. Get their names, driver’s license information, vehicle license plates, and insurance details.
- Ask for the contact details of witnesses, if any.
- Get yourself checked out in a healthcare facility after leaving the accident scene. Even if you feel fine, there could be an underlying injury without immediate symptoms.
- Report the accident to Uber via the app. If you’re not a passenger, you can use the online form instead.
- Consult with our Berkeley Uber accident lawyers immediately. We will review your case for free and explain your legal options.
What initially seemed like a routine rear-end collision, commonly known as a “fender bender,” turned into a significant settlement with high maximum limits for a client who suffered lower back disc injuries. The case was resolved just two weeks before the scheduled trial commencement.– BRIAN BEECHER
Why You Need A Lawyer Right Away
If you’ve been in an Uber accident in Berkeley, you should know California’s deadlines for filing lawsuits. According to the statute of limitations for personal injury, you have two years from the date of the accident to submit your claim. If you go beyond the allowed timeframe, you could lose your right to take legal action altogether, and your case will be dismissed.
Acting promptly also helps you build a strong claim, which is key to recovering the full amount of damages you’re owed. You need solid evidence to win against large companies and their insurance providers. The longer you wait to pursue your case, the harder it might be to succeed. Evidence can disappear or get tainted, and memories can become less reliable over time.
Consult with our Uber accident lawyer in Berkeley as soon as possible after your injury. We will protect your rights and comply with any deadlines. Don’t wait to initiate your claim; you don’t have to pay upfront fees to hire us.
Uber Accident Statistics
According to Uber’s latest safety report, the rate of overall crashes reported on the platform decreased from 2017 to 2022. However, motor vehicle fatalities have significantly increased. Here’s a quick rundown:
- 2017 to 2018 — The company recorded 107 motor vehicle fatalities, equating to a rate of 0.58 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT).
- 2019 to 2020 — The number of fatalities dropped slightly to 101, but the death rate per 100 million VMT increased by 7%, rising to 0.62.
- 2021 to 2022 — This period saw a significant rise in fatalities, with 153 cases, or a rate of 0.87 per 100 million VMT. This represents a substantial 40% increase when compared to the previous period.
Regardless of what the numbers say, the fact remains that there are still individuals and families victimized in accidents involving Uber. Behind each statistic is a person who has suffered due to negligence, highlighting the importance of holding rideshare companies accountable. If you or a loved one is injured in an Uber accident, seek guidance from our lawyers in Berkeley. We can ensure your case is handled with the expertise and care it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
I Was Struck By An Uber Driver, Are They Liable?
If an Uber driver hits you, you may be able to hold them liable, whether you’re a pedestrian, cyclist, driver, or another road user. In California, determining liability depends on who is at fault, which is established by examining the actions of all involved parties. For example, if a driver hits someone on a sidewalk or crosswalk, they may be found to be at least partially responsible.
If an Uber driver is found liable, the rideshare company’s insurance may cover the damages. However, it depends on their status on the app at the time of the accident, whether they were off-duty, waiting for a booking, en route to pick up a rider, or actively transporting a passenger. An Uber accident attorney in Berkeley can help investigate the details of your case and identify the best path of compensation for your injuries.
I Don’t Feel Any Pain After My Uber Accident. Should I See A Doctor?
Yes, you should immediately seek medical attention even if you don’t feel immediate pain after an Uber accident. Many injuries may not show symptoms right away due to adrenaline or shock masking the pain. Some conditions can become serious if left untreated, and seeing a doctor ensures any hidden injuries are identified and documented promptly.
Additionally, getting prompt treatment strengthens your accident claim. Our Berkeley attorneys for Uber accidents can use your medical records to prove that your injuries are related to the accident based on the date you went for a check-up.
Do I Need A Lawyer For An Uber Accident?
You’re not legally required to hire an attorney for your Uber accident. You can file a claim on your own, but this means you must deal with the repercussions of the accident while handling the complex legal procedures, such as:
- Managing and filing paperwork within deadlines.
- Identifying who should compensate you.
- Negotiating with insurance companies.
- Gathering evidence and witness testimonies.
A Berkeley Uber accident attorney can manage the entire legal process on your behalf. Moreover, having legal representation can often result in a more substantial settlement. Experienced lawyers know how to maximize your compensation and fight for the true worth of your case.
How Much Is My Uber Accident Claim Worth?
Every personal injury case is different, which makes it challenging to determine the exact value of your Uber accident claim. However, some factors determine how much money you can receive in a claim, including:
- The nature and severity of your injuries.
- The Uber driver’s degree of negligence.
- Whether you share fault.
- Whether the driver’s actions were deliberate.
- The estimated time away from work.
- Insurance policy limits.
To get a clearer picture of what your claim may be worth, consult with our Berkeley Uber accident lawyers immediately. We will evaluate the specifics of your case and account for all your damages, including both immediate and future losses. Reach out to our law office today to take the first step toward recovery.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire An Uber Accident Attorney?
Hiring an Uber accident lawyer in Berkeley typically doesn’t require upfront fees. Most personal injury lawyers work under a contingency fee agreement, which means they don’t charge by the hour. Instead, they will take an agreed-upon percentage from your final settlement or award.
You only pay for legal services if your attorney secures compensation on your behalf. This arrangement is beneficial for victims who may be hesitant to pursue a claim due to financial concerns. Additionally, it ensures that your attorney will work hard to maximize your compensation.
Contact The Uber Accident Lawyers Berkeley Relies On
If you or a loved one is injured in an Uber accident, now is the time to act. Rideshare cases can be overwhelming, with multiple insurance companies involved and complex legal issues to navigate. Nevertheless, with Arash Law on your side, you have a powerful team ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our personal injury lawyers handle everything, from identifying liability to negotiating with insurers and taking your case to court if needed. We’ll protect your rights throughout the process, ensuring you receive fair treatment and avoiding any mistake that could derail your claim.
Hire the best Berkeley Uber accident lawyers to increase your chances of success. Call (888) 488-1391 for a no-cost initial consultation.
Our injury law firm provides legal services in neighboring areas, including Albany, Piedmont, Oakland, Orinda, Richmond, Alameda, El Sobrante, San Pablo, Moraga, Lafayette, Pinole, Hercules, San Francisco, and Walnut Creek. Our lawyers represent victims in various practice areas, including Lyft accidents, slip-and-falls, commercial vehicle collisions, product liability, and more.