Humboldt County 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 Humboldt County Uber Accident Lawyers Are Committed To Clear And Honest Representation
Ridesharing companies like Uber have become staples in providing convenient, efficient, and cost-effective transportation options for their users. In the event of an accident, however, they may leave injured victims facing challenges. Our Humboldt County Uber accident lawyers aim to help victims pursue compensation that may be available to them. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Humboldt County’s rural roads often have different traffic patterns compared to urban areas. Factors like longer emergency response times, higher open-road speeds, and less lighting on these highways may contribute to the severity and frequency of traffic-related incidents. Due to the rising popularity of rideshare services, Uber vehicles are among those that contributed to a 3% increase in fatal traffic accidents in 2019.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an Uber accident, you may face additional losses, including medical expenses and lost income. Our Uber accident lawyers in Humboldt County have years of experience handling these cases and are ready to review yours.
If you’re eligible to pursue compensation and wish to enlist our services, you can also ask our lawyers about our contingency fee agreement. This means you won’t have to pay for lawyer fees unless we obtain compensation for you. Nevertheless, certain case-related costs may apply regardless of the outcome, and our attorneys will explain these to you before moving forward.
Auto v. Motorcycle – At first glance, the evidence seemed to be unfavorable to our severely injured client. The police report had placed him at fault for the crash. He was alleged to have been under the influence and speeding on his motorcycle. And he lacked motorcycle insurance subjecting him to California’s Prop 213, barring him from recovering damages for pain and suffering. Benny and his team, however, were able to prove that the truck driver violated his training and his company’s policies and procedures and made an exceptionally dangerous turn that contributed to the collision. Had the turn been made safely, the crash would not have occurred.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Why Seek Legal Assistance From Our Uber Accident Lawyers in Humboldt County, CA?
Uber accident victims may face challenges when it comes to seeking compensation for their injuries. Aside from learning how complex rideshare laws apply to your case, you may have to deal with large ridesharing companies and their insurance providers. Our Uber accident lawyers in Humboldt County work to avoid possible unfair settlements, especially in cases of severe injuries.
Here’s how we can help you manage and build your case:
- We can help you understand California’s specific rideshare regulations and insurance policies.
- We conduct independent investigations into the accident. These involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing police reports.
- We can negotiate with insurance companies and Uber on your behalf.
- We handle all legal filings and manage court procedures to help you comply with Humboldt County’s judicial processes and deadlines.
- We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other relevant specialists to support your case.
- We offer tailored advice to our clients so we may address all their specific needs and concerns.
Our duty is to keep clients informed, involved, and guided throughout the claims process. Choosing our team at Arash Law means working with lawyers who are knowledgeable, experienced, and committed to advocating for your rights and well-being.
What Should I Do After An Uber Accident In Humboldt County?
Regardless of how minor or severe an Uber accident is, it often leaves victims uncertain about what to do next. Given the unique nature of rideshare services and Humboldt County’s driving conditions, some actions may help maintain personal safety and legal compliance more than others. For instance, you can:
Prioritize Safety
Move to a safe location first. Further dangers may remain if you stay at the scene of the accident. Afterward, check yourself and others for injuries. Safety should always be your primary concern, even if you only sustain minor injuries.
Call 911
Seek medical help immediately, as some injuries can be internal and may not be readily apparent. You can have law enforcement document the accident scene. Their reports can be important for the case, as they will identify injuries and significant property damage.
Document Everything
Collect as much information as possible from the scene. This includes the involved drivers’ details, vehicle info, insurance details, and the contact information of any witnesses. The documentation of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries can be crucial for any insurance claims or legal proceedings.
Report The Accident To Uber
You can report the accident through the Uber app or website. This will notify the company of the incident and trigger their insurance process. Doing so also creates proper documentation of when the report was filed.
Avoid Discussing Fault
No matter whether insurance representatives are present, refrain from discussing fault or apologizing. Making statements without legal representation could weaken your right to claim compensation.
Consult With A Legal Professional
Uber accident lawyers in Humboldt County can help you understand your rights and options. Our team of lawyers can also offer specific guidance based on the circumstances of your case.
In the event of an accident, staying composed and taking structured steps like these can directly influence your well-being and the outcome of any legal matters. Meanwhile, our experienced Uber accident lawyers in Humboldt County can help you make informed decisions.
Who Is Liable For An Uber Accident In Humboldt County?
Several factors can determine liability in an Uber accident. If the Uber driver is at fault due to negligence, like distracted driving, they may be held responsible. In cases where another driver or a vehicle manufacturer is at fault, that party may also be liable.
If you’re a victim of an Uber-related accident, one or more of the following parties may be considered at fault:
- If your Uber driver is the one at fault, their insurance policy may generally cover your physical injuries and damages. Depending on when during a ride the accident occurred, a rideshare passenger or another affected party might also be protected under Uber’s insurance for medical expenses, property damage, and other related losses.
- If another negligent driver is responsible for the car accident, you may be able to file a claim against the third party’s insurance for compensatory damages that include medical costs, lost wages, and repair expenses for any property damage.
- If an uninsured or underinsured motorist caused the accident, then you might be covered by Uber’s insurance policy. This is particularly important in Humboldt County, where Uber’s policy includes uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
Keep in mind that while these insurance policies offer a safety net for Uber accident victims, the specifics of each case can still affect the actual coverage and compensation. In such situations, consulting with our Humboldt County Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law can help you better understand what may be involved in filing a claim.
Why Hold The Negligent Party Accountable In An Uber Accident?
Negligence in car accidents means failing to act reasonably to avoid harming others or damaging property. For instance, an Uber driver is considered negligent if they fail in their duty to care for passengers, such as by breaking road laws or driving while distracted. Even without the intent to harm, they may be held liable.
In California, the fault of each party is measured in percentage terms under comparative negligence. In the event that a victim is partly at fault, any compensation they receive will be reduced in proportion to their level of fault.
Sometimes, neither driver is at fault. Defective vehicles can also implicate manufacturers under product liability laws. Poorly maintained roads or faulty traffic signals can also cause accidents, potentially involving government entities. Responding to these situations requires specific legal guidance that Uber accident lawyers in Humboldt County can help you with.
What Insurance Coverage Can You Expect For Uber Accidents In Humboldt County, CA?
To protect passengers, drivers, and pedestrians, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) created rules specifically for transportation network companies (TNCs). In the case of Uber, its insurance coverage is determined by and separated into three periods.
Period 0: App Not Open – Not Logged In
If an Uber driver is involved in an accident while not logged into their app or during a personal ride, the driver’s personal auto insurance is the only coverage available. Therefore, an accident victim cannot file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurance.
Period 1: App Open – Waiting For A Match
Uber is required to provide primary insurance coverage for incidents involving their services. This includes at least $50,000 for death and personal injury per person, $100,000 per incident, and $30,000 for property damage.
Further, Uber should also have excess insurance coverage of at least $200,000 per accident. This covers liabilities related to the driver’s use of a vehicle for TNC services.
Period 2: Match Accepted – Driver En Route To Pick Up Passenger
TNCs should provide primary commercial insurance coverage of $1,000,000. This applies once the Uber driver is on the way a the pick-up point. This coverage continues all the way to Period 3.
Period 3: Passenger Is In The Vehicle, And Until The Passenger Exits The Vehicle
When passengers enter an Uber, they are provided with primary commercial insurance coverage of $1,000,000 until they exit the vehicle. If a motorist is uninsured or underinsured, TNCs should also provide $1,000,000 in coverage.
Although coverage has specific limits, it is important for victims to know that the compensation that may be available depends on the extent of their actual damages. If you want to know which period applies to your case, you can contact us to consult with our Humboldt County Uber accident lawyers.
What Is The Available Compensation In An Uber Accident Claim In Humboldt County, CA?
If you’re suffering injuries in an Uber accident, it’s vital to understand your rights and the compensation you may seek. Having been inflicted with minor to catastrophic injuries can lead to many different physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Compensation for these losses may be available through a personal injury claim.
Depending on the specifics of the case, victims may be able to pursue the following damages:
- Medical Bills
- Follow-Up Medical Care
- Loss Of Income
- Physical Therapy
- Property Damage
- Other Related Financial Losses
- Pain And Suffering
- Loss Of Enjoyment Of Life
- Loss Of Consortium
- Wrongful death
- Other Non-Economic Damages
Arash Law’s Uber accident lawyers can assess your losses and determine the potential compensation that may be available to you.
Is There A Deadline For Filing An Uber Accident Claim In Humboldt County?
Section 335.1 of the California Code of Civil Procedure gives you only two years statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims in California, including those involved in Uber accidents in Humboldt County. There are some exceptions to this rule that may shorten or extend this deadline. You can ask our attorneys about which ones may apply in your case.
As a victim of an Uber accident, it may help to have legal guidance from Humboldt County Uber accident lawyers. To protect your rights to pursue compensation, missing the two-year window under California law to file your claim is not an option.
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
What Are The Common Causes Of Uber Accidents In Humboldt County?
Like any other mode of transportation, Uber rides are also susceptible to accidents. Being aware of the following common causes of Uber accidents may help you gain insights into how to promote your safety and file personal injury claims.
Distracted Driving
This includes using a phone, eating, or any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in the United States.
Speeding
Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast in dangerous road conditions are frequent causes of Uber accidents in Humboldt County. NHTSA stated that this contributed to 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2021, resulting in over 12,330 deaths. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to navigate safely. The speed of a vehicle can increase the severity of accidents when they happen.
Driver Fatigue
Though anyone can be fatigued behind the wheel, Uber drivers are more likely to work long hours, which leads to tiredness and reduced reaction times. In 2017, approximately 91,000 police-reported crashes involved drowsy drivers. According to NHTSA, this led to approximately 50,000 injuries and nearly 800 deaths.
Poor Weather Conditions
Rain and snow are the usual weather conditions that make roads dangerous for driving. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) stated that over a ten-year period, approximately 21% accounted for all car crashes were related to poor weather conditions. This resulted in more than 5,000 annual deaths and over 418,000 injuries. Unless necessary, never get an Uber ride when there is too much rain, snow, or fog.
Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced Uber drivers are generally more likely to cause accidents. Their lack of skill and road awareness often gives them difficulties in driving you to your destination safely. It may also help to make sure that your Uber driver has high ratings, enough for you to feel confident that you’re safe on your journey.
Mechanical Failures
Regular maintenance and checks are a must to minimize the risk of mechanical failures causing an accident. Drivers may be held liable in an Uber accident if they neglect to maintain their vehicles. Otherwise, if the manufacturer directly contributed to the mechanical failure, they may also be held liable for the accident and injuries you sustained.
Violating Traffic Laws
Running red lights and making illegal turns may also contribute to Uber accidents in Humboldt County. Rural roads can be more unpredictable compared to urban roads. Hence, when drivers adhere strictly to traffic rules, they can significantly reduce the risk of having an accident.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Uber has strict policies against driving under the influence. However, there are still some instances where DUI has led to severe Uber accidents, regardless of whether it’s done by a rideshare or third-party driver. If the former gets convicted of DUI, they may be banned from Uber and other ridesharing platforms.
Poor Road Conditions
Similar to having poor weather conditions, poor road conditions, such as potholes and unclear signage, can increase the likelihood of Uber accidents. These factors are often beyond the control of the driver. However, the risks can be minimized by driving cautiously. Speeding under poor road conditions increases the risk of running over dangerous potholes and intersections with limited signage and may cause more severe injuries.
Uber accidents in Humboldt County can arise from many factors beyond those stated above. Awareness and adherence to safety practices by Uber drivers, their passengers, and other road users can help avoid distractions and, most importantly, accidents.
What Common Injuries Can You Suffer From An Uber Accident In Humboldt County?
These are some of the most common injuries that our car accident lawyers see when handling Uber accident cases.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — TBIs may not be immediately apparent, but they can lead to lasting effects on mood, emotions, cognitive abilities, and motor skills.
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis — Motor vehicle accidents, including Uber-related ones, are common causes of these injuries. Unfortunately, there are no cures available for these injuries.
- Chest and Pulmonary Injuries — Having broken ribs and collapsed lungs can happen due to blunt force trauma from Uber accidents.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries — When a vehicle abruptly stops as a result of a collision, the passenger may suffer neck injuries from the sudden movement of the head and neck.
- Bone Fractures — Broken bones are painful and can even lead to permanent disfigurement, depending on the severity and location of the fractures.
- Cuts, Scrapes, and Bruising — These injuries are generally considered minor and are usually the result of impacts on parts of the vehicle during an Uber accident. This is why it’s essential to always have your seatbelt on.
- Burns — If an Uber accident leads to a fire or when engine parts are exposed, catching severe burns is highly possible.
- Psychological Trauma — Uber and general car accidents can lead to psychological trauma. Emotional scars, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD, are often the effects of an accident, depending on its severity.
- Internal Injuries — High-speed collisions can damage one’s internal organs. This requires extensive medical treatment, as internal bleeding is dangerous when left unchecked.
- Loss of Limbs and Disfigurement — After severe Uber accidents, losing limbs or having significant disfigurement will require long-term treatment, rehabilitation, and possibly prosthetics.
Contact Our Humboldt County Uber Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber accident in Humboldt County, you don’t have to go through this challenging journey alone. At Arash Law, our team is ready to review your case.
Uber accidents have their own share of complicated legal matters. So, we aim to provide comprehensive services that see us handling multiple aspects of an Uber accident case, from investigating the accident scene to dealing with insurance companies. Call our Humboldt County Uber accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Our legal services extend to local communities, including Laytonville, Leggett, Weaverville, Etna, Fort Jones, Crescent City, Red Bluff, Redding, Shasta Lake, Los Molinos, Chester, Harper, Montague, McArthur, Paradise, Chico, Orland, Anderson, Cottonwood, Palo Cedro, and Shingletown, as well as other cities and counties throughout California.
