Inyo County Uber Accident Lawyers
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Our Inyo County Uber Accident Lawyers Helping You Navigate Recovery And Rights
Nowadays, ridesharing services like Uber have gained popularity, as they offer swift and hassle-free transportation. However, Uber doesn’t always provide convenience. When you or a family member gets injured while taking an Uber, our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers can help you identify potentially liable parties and seek compensation for damages. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial case evaluation.
Situated at the heart of California, Inyo is the second-largest county in the state, covering over 10,000 square miles. Visitors can indulge in various outdoor activities here, such as fishing, hiking, and climbing. Additionally, the county is a gateway to attractions like Mammoth Mountain and Yosemite National Park in Mono and Nevada Counties, respectively.
Generally, Inyo County has a thriving tourism industry, which Uber’s services complement. This company has a fleet of vehicles that can transport tourists and locals between Bishop Airport and any location therein.
As more people use Uber, they become more vulnerable to the risks that come with it. When Uber accidents happen, victims often face severe injuries and financial losses. Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers can help you with these concerns and guide you through the legal process. They can assist you in pursuing fair compensation for your injuries and other accident-related losses.
Our law firm can handle your Uber accident claim, considering that this is one of our focus areas. Feel free to reach out to us to learn more about how we can support the legal aspects of your situation.
Settlement in a Under Insured Motorist Claim against ride share company; client suffered spinal injuries– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Can Our Inyo County Uber Accident Lawyers Help Your Case
From establishing negligence to pursuing compensation in or out of court, our Inyo County accident lawyers can take care of your Uber accident case. Here’s what our legal team can do:
- Investigate the Accident — Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate the incident to identify the potentially responsible parties. We can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review police reports.
- Handle Communications With Insurance Companies — Dealing with insurance providers can be challenging, especially if they offer a settlement that doesn’t meet your needs. Our lawyers can help pursue compensation that reflects the losses incurred due to the accident.
- Represent You in Court — If out-of-court settlements aren’t reached, our Inyo County Uber accident attorneys can take your case to court if it is a valid option. We can advocate for your interests before a judge or jury.
- Communicate Clearly — Our personal injury lawyers can help you understand your rights, answer your questions, and give you updates on the progress of your case.
As ridesharing services become more popular, the possibility of Uber-related incidents and injuries is also rising. Our Inyo County lawyers can assist you with your Uber accident claims and guide you through the legal process.
Why Should You Hire Our Inyo County Uber Accident Lawyers?
Our law firm provides legal representation to injured victims of Uber accidents. We can help protect your rights to compensation while navigating the complexities of the legal system. Our Inyo County attorneys are knowledgeable about ridesharing laws and have experience handling similar cases. Based on the available evidence, we develop a strategic approach tailored to your case.
Additionally, you won’t need to worry about upfront attorney fees, as we operate on a contingency fee basis. Our fees are only deducted from any settlement we obtain on your behalf. Please note that you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs regardless of the outcome of your case.
Navigating an Uber accident case can be challenging, especially when it comes to determining liability for damages. Victims often face multiple parties, including Uber drivers, Uber itself, other motorists, and insurance companies. The claims process can be overwhelming to deal with on your own when you’re still recovering from your injuries. Consulting with experienced lawyers can provide you with the necessary legal support.
Common Uber Accident Scenarios
Uber drivers can cause various accidents that injure different parties. Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers typically come across these scenarios:
Uber Drivers Cause Accidents That Injure Their Passengers
Accidents caused by Uber drivers can sometimes lead to injuries or even fatalities for their passengers. Despite traffic guidelines, some Uber drivers fail to follow the rules of the road or act carelessly. When they display negligent behavior, they jeopardize the safety of those who booked them for a supposedly safe ride.
Due to the risk of Uber passengers getting injured, California’s Public Utilities Commission directs Uber drivers to comply with the following:
- Pass the annual background check.
- Submit to a vehicle inspection every 12 months or after reaching the 50,000-mile mark in driving.
- Follow the driving-hour limit.
- Periodically verify identification.
Injured Uber passengers may pursue compensation for damages from the driver and Uber itself, depending on the circumstances of their case.
Uber Drivers Run Over Pedestrians
Pedestrian accidents involving Uber vehicles can happen anywhere. Among all road users, pedestrians are at a higher risk of sustaining serious injuries in traffic accidents. The California Vehicle Code’s Rules of the Road Division specifies the right-of-way for pedestrians, whether they are in crosswalks or not. However, some Uber drivers may fail to adhere to these laws and strike pedestrians as a result.
In the safety report released by Uber for 2019–2020, the company noted that pedestrians represented a majority of the 101 fatalities related to its services. A significant proportion of these casualties were on wide roads like interstates and principal arterials, while only a small percentage involved pedestrians walking at crosswalks or intersections.
Injured pedestrians may have a right to seek compensation for their injuries from the driver involved in the accident. Additionally, if the driver was on duty when the crash happened, victims may also have the option to pursue compensation from Uber. To help determine if you have a valid claim, consider consulting an Uber accident lawyer in Inyo County.
Uber Cars Hit Other Vehicles
Accidents involving Uber drivers can happen. Studies suggest that ridesharing services have had varied impacts on traffic safety, with some research indicating a rise in specific types of accidents.
The following are some of the most common reasons for these traffic incidents:
- Speeding
- Distracted Driving
- DUI
- Poor Navigation
- Inadequate Training for Drivers
Uber Passengers Get Harmed Due To Other Drivers
Uber passengers may experience harm due to the negligence of third-party drivers. In the event a private car hits the Uber they’re riding, injured passengers can pursue damages from the at-fault driver. Additionally, they may also seek compensation from their Uber driver and the company, depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident.
If you’re a pedestrian or a passenger injured in an accident involving Uber, you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries and other losses. Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers can help evaluate whether you have a valid claim and assist you in establishing the negligence and liability of those responsible.
How Does Uber’s Liability Insurance Work?
Ridesharing companies, like Uber, can provide insurance coverage for their drivers and customers who get injured while the driver is online.
However, victims should be aware that submitting claims doesn’t necessarily mean they automatically get Uber’s approval. The rideshare giant will only take action according to verified details. The level of coverage also depends on the following periods:
- Period 0 — When accidents happen when an Uber driver is not logged in to the app, the driver’s personal auto insurance will cover the victim’s injuries or damages. Uber won’t provide additional liability coverage.
- Period 1 — A supplemental liability coverage is available in case drivers are logged into the ridesharing application but haven’t taken bookings yet. In this situation, their insurers will shoulder the damages caused by the accidents. If they have an insufficient insurance policy, Uber may provide supplemental coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for injuries, as well as $30,000 for property damage.
- Period 2 — If Uber drivers are en route to pick up their passengers and accidents occur, their insurance companies must cover the damages incurred. But if their policy limits don’t meet the necessary amount, the ridesharing company offers up to $1 million in supplemental liability coverage and uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
- Period 3 — This is when the driver transports the passenger to the designated drop-off location. Uber offers the same coverage as Period 2.
Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers can help you determine whether Uber can be held liable for your damage and other losses. We can also handle communications and negotiations with them on your behalf.
Usual Types Of Uber Accidents
Using Uber may not provide absolute safety. Passengers can get injured in crashes, which take place in many forms. Our Inyo County Uber accident attorneys usually see these types of accidents:
T-Bone Accidents
An Uber vehicle gets into a T-bone accident when its front strikes the sides of another vehicle, creating a “T” shape. These collisions occur at intersections, as Uber drivers sometimes run a red light or fail to give way to other vehicles. It can also happen if an Uber driver makes an illegal U-turn and hits another vehicle.
Single-Car Accidents
Uber drivers usually get into a single-car crash when they lose control of their vehicles and crash into stationary objects. These include street lamps, poles, house walls, trees, fire hydrants, and more.
Common causes behind these incidents are distracted driving, bad weather conditions, and mechanical failures. Single-car accidents can cause serious property damage and injuries to the drivers, passengers, or pedestrians.
Sideswipe Accidents
Passengers can get injured in a sideswipe accident, where an Uber car collides with another vehicle traveling parallel to it. Such a collision happens when a driver tries to shift lanes without checking their side mirrors for other cars.
Sideswipe accidents normally cause property damage, but in some cases, they lead to injuries to both passengers and drivers.
Hit-And-Run Accidents
Hit-and-runs occur when individuals involved in an accident leave the scene without providing support to those injured or sharing their contact information. There are various reasons why a driver might leave, such as feeling overwhelmed, being in a difficult situation, or concerns about their insurance status.
The most challenging aspect of hit-and-run accidents is establishing the liability of the responsible parties. It can be difficult to trace them after they run away. However, pieces of evidence, like recordings from dashboard cameras and closed-circuit televisions, may be helpful in identifying the at-fault parties.
Rear-End Accidents
Uber drivers can collide with the backs of other cars, resulting in rear-end accidents. They usually occur when Uber drivers tailgate other cars or are driving distracted.
What Usually Causes Uber Accidents?
Most Uber crashes happen because of driver negligence and other external factors. Among the common causes of Uber accidents are:
- Distracted Driving — Uber drivers may use their mobile phones to monitor the app, receive booking notifications, or navigate routes. Even brief distractions can increase the risk of collisions.
- DUI — Alcohol and drugs can affect the judgment, coordination, and decision-making skills of people. Instances of Uber drivers operating vehicles while under the influence can elevate the risk of accidents.
- Fatigued Driving — Some Uber drivers may choose to work longer hours to meet their ride quotas, which can lead to fatigue. Tired drivers may have reduced attentiveness, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving — Some Uber drivers may exceed speed limits in an effort to complete rides more quickly. This behavior can lead to running traffic signals, overlooking traffic regulations, or failing to notice obstacles.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance — Uber drivers must check their vehicles regularly to discover and address car issues. These include problems with the tires, brake system, lights, and accelerator. Malfunctioning components or mechanical failures can lead to accidents.
Depending on the details of your case, our Inyo County attorneys can gather relevant evidence to determine the cause and establish liability.
Injuries Typically Sustained In Uber Accidents
Victims of Uber accidents are likely to incur injuries similar to those of typical car accidents. Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers help clients pursue compensation for the following common bodily harm:
- Whiplash — Uber accidents, like any other collisions, can cause a strong impact that forcefully and rapidly moves the neck back and forth. This jerking motion might damage muscles or tendons, resulting in whiplash.
- Head and Brain Injuries — Our heads and brains are among the most vulnerable in Uber accidents. The most common are traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which affect cognitive functions.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — The spinal cord can be damaged in an Uber accident, which can lead to paralysis.
- Fractures — The impact of an Uber accident can break various bones in the body, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs.
- Contusions — Bruises are caused by ruptured blood vessels, which leak blood under the skin. These injuries come with pain, swelling, and discoloration of the affected area.
- Sprains and Strains — Uber accidents can also cause damage to the soft tissues, causing discomfort and pain.
- Wrongful Deaths — Uber accidents sometimes result in the deaths of passengers, pedestrians, or road users. The remaining loved ones may file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for their losses.
Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers can connect you with medical experts to help evaluate the type and severity of your injuries.
What To Do After An Uber Accident In Inyo County, CA
In case you get into an Uber accident while ridesharing, our lawyers in Inyo County recommend the following steps:
- Prioritize Your Safety — If you can, move to a safer location on the side of the road to avoid getting into another accident. However, do not leave the scene.
- Check for Injuries — It may be hard to stay calm during an accident, but it’s important to remain composed. Assess the situation quickly, and check whether you or your companions sustained injuries. Call 911 so you can receive immediate medical attention.
- Coordinate With Authorities — Contact the local police so they can investigate the accident. They can also serve as mediators, especially if the involved parties are at the peak of their emotions. When coordinating with them, secure a copy of the incident report.
- Gather Evidence — Take photos and videos of the accident scene, property damage, and injuries incurred. Testimonies from witnesses can help substantiate your claim. You must also jot down vital information, like the names and contact details of Uber drivers and other parties at the scene.
- Notify Uber — Inform Uber about the accident via the app. Only relay necessary information; don’t admit fault or overshare details. Whatever you tell them may be used against you.
- Consult an Attorney — Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers can help you understand your rights. We’ll explain the options you can take and help you manage negotiations with insurance adjusters.
What Damages Can I Pursue After An Uber Accident?
Victims of Uber accidents may be entitled to a settlement that covers various damages, depending on the specifics of their case. Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers work toward pursuing compensation to cover the economic and non-economic losses incurred due to the accident.
Economic damages refer to out-of-pocket expenses victims spend related to the accident and their injuries. Examples are bills for immediate medication, rehabilitation, and follow-up treatments and therapies. Apart from the medical fees, economic losses also include the repair or replacement of damaged properties. If these accidents yield injuries that hinder victims from working, they may also seek compensation for their lost earnings.
Non-economic damages, on the other hand, pertain to the intangible losses resulting from an Uber accident. These damages include pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life, among others.
In rare cases, the court may award punitive damages, which aim to punish negligent Uber drivers who display malicious intent or gross negligence. Such penalties serve not only to punish the at-fault parties but also to deter others from making similar mistakes.
Who May Be Responsible In An Uber Accident?
When an Uber accident occurs, responsibility may fall on several parties, not just the Uber driver. Here are the potentially liable parties:
- Uber — The ridesharing company has a legal responsibility to keep its customers safe. If accidents happen, the company may be held financially responsible for the injuries and the losses of its passengers.
- Auto Part Manufacturers — If accidents happen because of faulty car parts, the manufacturers may face liability.
- Third-Party Drivers — Drivers of other vehicles may also be accountable for the injured Uber passengers if their recklessness contributed to the accidents.
It can be challenging to determine the exact cause of an Uber accident and who may be held responsible. Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations and gather evidence to establish the negligence of the at-fault parties.
Statute Of Limitations For Uber Accident Claims
Injured Uber passengers who want to file cases must adhere to California’s statute of limitations. According to the rule, they generally have two years after the accident to file lawsuits. If their injuries are not immediately apparent after the incident, they have one year after the discovery to pursue their claims.
Meanwhile, exceptions and extensions may also apply in specific cases. For example, if victims are minors, the statute of limitations is paused until they reach 18. Further, those who are out of state or serving sentences in jail must return or be discharged first for the statute to begin.
To understand these deadlines, it may be helpful to consult with experienced Inyo County Uber accident attorneys who can assist you in meeting legal requirements in a timely manner.
Statistics Of Uber Accidents
Uber’s safety report for 2019-2020 indicates that there were 101 fatalities resulting from 91 fatal incidents during that period. This figure comprises roughly 0.000005% or one in every 20,000,000 trips made during the two years. Specifically, it recorded 42 fatalities out of its trips in 2020. However, the company’s public reports lack specific breakdowns by categories of victims.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What If An Uber Accident Has Multiple Liable Parties?
In California, the pure comparative negligence rule applies in accident cases. It states that if a crash occurs because of several entities, liability is divided based on each party’s degree of fault.
For example, your Uber driver did not turn their signal on when changing lanes. Then, a second driver was speeding and rear-ended the car you were in. Based on investigations, both drivers were found to be 50% at fault for the accident. It means that they may share in covering the damages.
Understanding the complexities of liability in Uber accidents can be crucial for victims seeking compensation for damages. An Inyo County Uber accident lawyer can help identify potentially liable parties and their corresponding degree of fault and pursue a fair resolution based on the available evidence. They can also assess how much Uber pays for certain cases.
Will I Lose My Access To Uber If I File A Claim?
Filing a valid claim is your legal right, and retaliation against you for doing so is generally not allowed. Customers who have pursued legal action against Uber have often retained their accounts and continued to use the service without interruption.
Many accident victims may feel hesitant to file lawsuits against the ridesharing company due to concerns about potential account deactivation. For those who rely heavily on Uber for their daily transportation needs, this can be a significant concern.
If you are a victim and someone is threatening you with account deactivation, consider consulting with Inyo County Uber accident lawyers. They can help you understand the laws governing Uber services and are equipped to represent your case.
Contact Inyo County Uber Accident Lawyers
Arash Law provides legal representation to injured victims in rideshare accidents. Our Inyo County Uber accident lawyers assist clients in filing personal injury claims, helping them seek compensation for their injuries and other related losses.
Getting injured during an Uber ride can bring significant financial and emotional burdens. If you’re a victim of this incident, call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation. During the meeting, we can talk about your case, evaluate whether you have a valid claim, and advise you on your next steps.
Our law firm also serves nearby locations, such as Bakersfield, San Jose, San Francisco, Fremont, Modesto, Stockton, Walnut Creek, Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Thousand Oaks, San Bernardino, Riverside, Anaheim, Long Beach, Huntington Park, Palm Springs, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Oxnard, Tulare, Visalia, Fresno, Merced, Madera, Victorville, and Barstow.
