Merced Uber Accident Lawyers
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Our Merced Uber Accident Lawyers Are Here To Make It Right, When You’ve Been Wronged
Uber offers affordable and convenient transportation options in Merced. However, it’s important to be aware of potential risks associated with Uber accidents, which occur regularly in the area. Our skilled Merced Uber accident lawyers are dedicated to assisting you in securing the maximum compensation for your recovery. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our online form for a no-cost consultation to discuss your case.
In the heart of San Joaquin Valley in California, Merced stands out as a leading center for business and entertainment in the county. Recognized as the “Gateway to Yosemite,” this city provides an affordable living space and a high quality of life to its residents. Thanks to its strategic location, Merced is an easily accessible city that’s within a two-hour drive from San Francisco and Sacramento. The city’s overall appeal is undeniable, surrounded by beautiful landscapes featuring flowing streams, walking trails, numerous parks, and an expansive network of bike paths.
Going around Merced in an Uber is a game-changer for tourists and locals who do not drive. Uber has become part of the city’s travel experience by offering a practical transportation solution. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor exploring Merced’s attractions, relying on Uber eliminates the hassle of waiting for taxis or hunting for parking spaces. With a few taps on your smartphone, you can summon an Uber driver to pick you up from any location in the city.
If unfortunate circumstances arise, Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., provides dedicated legal support for Uber accident cases. We recognize the importance of securing maximum compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and any other damages incurred due to the accident. Our Merced Uber accident lawyers are well-versed in the specifics of Uber accident claims, offering comprehensive assistance to address the specific details of your situation. At Arash Law, we are committed to providing effective legal representation for your claim.
Our client was parked on the side of the road and was struck by the defendant driver traveling at a high rate of speed– ARASH KHORSANDI
The Cases Our Merced Uber Accident Attorneys Represent
Employees, tourists, college students, and other locals in Merced often rely on ridesharing services to get around the town during the year. Using services like Uber can be advantageous for full-time residents, offering savings on gas, parking, and vehicle maintenance while also serving as a preventative measure against DUI risks and potential consequences. However, hiring an Uber does not necessarily mean that they are out of the woods when it comes to accidents.
At Arash Law, we specialize in helping you secure the compensation you are entitled to through a claim. Our experienced Merced Uber accident lawyers handle various types of cases, including:
- Collisions involving Uber drivers and other motorists. These are instances where an Uber vehicle is part of a traffic collision with another motorist, potentially resulting in harm and damage to property.
- Accidents where an Uber driver collides with a fixed object. This covers situations where an Uber driver crashes into a stationary object, such as a pole or sign, leading to damages and potential injuries.
- Incidents occur during your trip, such as being ejected from your seat. Certain Uber accidents can involve scenarios where you are forcefully thrown from your seat due to a collision or a sudden stop.
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents involving Uber. During a traffic rush, Ubers might collide with pedestrians or cyclists, posing risks of severe injuries to these individuals.
- Any accident resulting in injuries due to the actions of an Uber driver. This encompasses a broad category, including accidents where injuries occur due to the actions or negligence of an Uber driver, whether it involves reckless driving, impairment, or other unsafe behavior.
If you find yourself in need of Merced Uber accident lawyers, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to assist you in understanding your case’s issues and ensuring you receive the highest compensation for your injury.
Important Uber Accident Statistics
Uber’s influence on modern transportation has sparked discussions about road safety, prompting new legislation and regulations to address concerns. Despite varying figures influenced by factors such as time and location, one undeniable reality persists: accidents happen, even during ridesharing journeys.
Uber’s safety report from 2019-2020 revealed that 91 fatal incidents involving Uber vehicles led to the loss of 101 lives. Notably, 32% of these incidents involved at least one speeding vehicle, while alcohol-impaired driving accounted for 23% of the crashes. The victims in these accidents included pedestrians (64%), vulnerable road users (42%), third-party motorcyclists (29%), and bicyclists or scooter riders (7%).
Data disclosed by Uber in 2017 and 2018 indicated 107 fatalities caused by 97 Uber vehicles. Subsequent safety assessments for 2019 and 2020 affirmed a consistent trend, with 101 deaths occurring in 91 fatal incidents. Uber attributes these incidents predominantly to speeding (32%) and driving under the influence of alcohol (23%). The most affected victims were pedestrians (64%), followed by vulnerable road users (42%), motorcyclists (29%), and cyclists (7%).
While the statistics may raise concerns, it’s important to emphasize that Uber and other ridesharing apps are considered safe and convenient transportation options. Nevertheless, given the unpredictability of life, accidents can occur at any time, increasing the likelihood of road accidents, especially in Merced. At Arash Law, our Merced Uber accident lawyers possess expertise in managing cases related to Uber collisions.
What Are the Common Causes Of Uber Accidents In Merced?
In instances where injuries occur, Arash Law is here to help you hold those responsible accountable. Our Merced Uber accident attorneys commonly represent cases involving:
- Reckless behavior exhibited by Uber drivers, including speeding, running red lights, and driving distracted or impaired.
- Reckless driving behaviors were displayed by other motorists involved in the incident.
- Vehicle maintenance issues that heighten the likelihood of Uber accidents.
- Negligent ride-sharing company policies include inadequate driver verification, insufficient schedule monitoring, or failure to impose penalties for safety violations.
The growing reliance on ride-sharing services has made providers struggle to meet escalating demand, potentially compromising customer safety. If you’ve suffered injuries due to these causes, our Merced Uber accident attorneys at Arash Law will fight for your rights and pursue compensation on your behalf.
What Should I Do After My Merced Uber Accident?
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Initiate a traffic collision report by contacting the police. The first step following an accident is to contact the police. Once the Merced Police Department arrives at the scene, they will create an official police report documenting the incident, involved parties, and any witnesses. This report becomes vital for our Merced Uber accident attorneys in pursuing claims against all relevant parties, going beyond the immediate individuals involved.
Learn more about the essential details that should be included in this official accident report.
- Start gathering evidence immediately post-accident. If not severely injured, photograph the accident scene, injuries, vehicle damage, skid marks, and any potentially valuable details. Collect names, phone numbers of witnesses and insurance information from the involved party.
- Seek emergency care; have medics examine you at the accident scene. Go to the hospital for an additional check by an ER doctor. This ensures documentation and treatment initiation for injuries, even those internally unnoticed.
- Refrain from discussing your case with anyone, especially insurance company representatives. If contacted, cease communication, regardless of the affiliation—be it your insurance, the Uber driver’s, or the other driver’s insurance. Avoid providing the insurance company with reasons to weaken your case or justify reduced compensation.
- Exercise caution on social media; try to avoid sharing details about the accident. Let your Merced Uber accident lawyers handle communications on your behalf to prevent unintended consequences.
- Decline any offers or checks from the insurance company. If they are negotiating or offering a settlement, they likely acknowledge the strength of your case. Be cautious, as accepting a check may reduce your rightful compensation.
- Consult experienced Uber accident lawyers in Merced. Consult lawyers with expertise in rideshare accidents, ensuring they’ve assisted clients in both ride-sharing and collision scenarios. Your choice of a lawyer is vital to securing the best outcome for your case.
What Are The Types Of Uber Accidents?
Several Uber accidents can occur, each presenting unique circumstances and challenges. Here are some common types of Uber accidents:
- Collisions with Other Vehicles – Accidents involving Uber and other cars on the road occur at intersections, during lane changes, or in heavy traffic.
- Collisions with Fixed Objects – Uber drivers may collide with stationary objects such as poles, barriers, or structures, leading to accidents.
- Accidents During the Trip – Unexpected circumstances that happen during an Uber ride, such as sudden stops, sharp turns, or other incidents.
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents – Accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists where an Uber vehicle strikes or is struck by individuals on foot or bicycles.
- Pickup/Drop-off – Uber vehicles frequently drop off and pick up passengers, exposing them to the risk of collisions and injuries during these maneuvers.
- Rear-End Collisions – When an Uber vehicle is struck from behind by another, often at stoplights or in slow-moving traffic.
- En Route – Different insurance rules come into play when a passenger is en route, significantly impacting how an attorney approaches the case.
- Waiting for Reservation – Uber drivers log in and await reservation acceptance, a period during which many accidents occur.
- Logged Off – If Uber drivers are logged off, they are treated like any other driver. However, Uber drivers are subject to higher minimum insurance requirements under California law.
Uber accidents share similarities with other motor vehicle incidents, but unique circumstances set them apart. The specific details of how the accident occurs carry legal implications, and Arash Law’s Merced Uber accident lawyers possess the expertise and knowledge to assist victims of Uber accidents in all scenarios.
What Are the Common Uber Accident Injuries?
An Uber driver faces the risk of accidents whether engaged in picking up, dropping off, or driving while logged on. Often, injuries result from the Uber driver’s negligence, impacting not only the passengers in the Uber car but also those in other vehicles. Common injuries arising from Uber accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries – Severe injuries to the brain that can lead to long-term cognitive and neurological impairment, often caused by a forceful impact during an Uber accident.
- Severe Concussions – Head injuries characterized by temporary loss of brain function, resulting in symptoms such as confusion, memory loss, and headaches.
- Wrist Fractures – Breaks or cracks in the bones of the wrist caused by the impact of the accident, which can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
- Broken Arms/Legs – Fractures or breaks in the bones of the arms or legs due to the force of the Uber accident, often resulting in pain, swelling, and the need for medical intervention.
- Chest Compressions – Injuries to the chest area, possibly caused by the impact of the accident, leading to compression of the chest wall and potential damage to internal organs.
- Internal Injuries/Bleeding – Harm to internal organs or blood vessels, often not immediately visible, but with the potential for severe complications, requiring prompt medical attention following an Uber accident.
These injuries highlight the potentially serious consequences of Uber accidents, stressing the need for appropriate legal representation and compensation for those affected.
What Are My Options In Filing An Uber Accident Claim in Merced?
If Uber accidents happen, you may have the option to initiate an insurance claim against both the driver and the involved company. You may be entitled to damages for personal injury cases, which include:
- Medical Costs and Bills – These expenses are linked to medical treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any other costs directly tied to the injury sustained in the Uber accident.
- Lost Income – This refers to the wages or salary the injured party cannot earn during the recovery period, reflecting the impact on their ability to work due to the accident-related injury.
- Loss of Earning Capacity – In situations where the injury leads to a long-term or permanent impairment affecting the victim’s ability to earn income, seeking compensation for your diminished earnings is important.
- Physical Pain and Suffering – These include the physical discomfort, pain, and distress experienced by the injured party as a consequence of the Uber accident and resulting injuries.
- Emotional Distress – Relating to the psychological and emotional effects of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of Consortium – Refers to the negative impact of the injuries on the injured party’s relationship with their spouse or family, including the loss of companionship, intimacy, and support.
- Funeral Expenses – In cases of wrongful death resulting from an Uber accident, covering the costs associated with the funeral and burial of the deceased.
- Property Damage – The expenses involved in repairing or replacing damaged property, such as the vehicle in the Uber accident.
- Punitive Damages – Awarded in exceptional cases to punish the at-fault party for particularly offensive behavior and to warn against similar misconduct. Justification for punitive damages requires extreme recklessness, malice, oppression, or fraud on the defendant’s part.
Arash Law’s Merced Uber accident attorneys are dedicated to assertively negotiating on your behalf, striving for the most favorable settlement.
What Are The Possible Compensation Awarded To Merced Uber Accident Victims?
In an accident, whether you’re an Uber passenger, a pedestrian hit by an Uber driver, or the Uber driver yourself, initiating a damage claim may be the sole recourse to hold Uber fully accountable for your injuries.
An awarded damages can address various aspects, including:
- Medical Bills (present and future costs of rehabilitation and medical equipment) – Covers expenses related to immediate and ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and necessary equipment resulting from the collision.
- Permanent Disability – Addresses compensation for a lasting impairment or disability incurred due to the accident, acknowledging the long-term impact on the individual’s life.
- Travel Costs for Doctor and Legal Appointments – Covers the expenses associated with travel to medical appointments and legal consultations related to the crash.
- Missed Time from Work – Compensates for the income lost due to time away from work during recovery following the injury.
- Damage to Your Vehicle – Addresses the costs of repairing or replacing the vehicle damaged in the accident.
- Loss of Quality of Life – Recognizes and compensates for the reduction in quality of life resulting from the lasting effects of the Uber accident.
- Loss of Consortium (emotional support of spouse) – Acknowledges the emotional and relational impact on a spouse due to the reduced ability to provide support and companionship.
- Physical Pain and Suffering – Compensates for the physical discomfort and suffering endured as a direct result of the Uber accident.
- Mental Anguish/PTSD – Addresses the psychological impact, including post-traumatic stress disorder, resulting from the emotional distress experienced during and after the accident.
In a recent rideshare case successfully handled by Arash Law, our client, a passenger utilizing a well-known ride-sharing app, found themselves in a minor collision. Despite the incident involving low speed and minimal damage, the legal proceedings lasted over two years. Before reaching trial, the defendants opted for a settlement, concluding with a resolution of $1,100,000. Noteworthy in this case is the unique condition of our client, which required an understanding of medical and legal issues. This highlights the commitment of Arash Law’s Uber accident lawyers to comprehensive expertise, ensuring the attainment of the best possible outcomes for our clients.
What is the Statute of Limitations for an Uber Accident in Merced?
Personal injury victims in California have a two-year window from the accident date to file a civil lawsuit. It is important for those seeking damages from Uber to file their claims promptly. Given the potential delay in acknowledgment and investigation by a large rideshare corporation, submitting your claim sooner enhances the likelihood of timely assistance with your expenses. Consulting with Merced Uber accident attorneys at Arash Law can help you assess the readiness of your case to proceed.
If You’re in an Accident in Merced with an Uber, Who Pays for the Damage?
First and foremost, it is imperative to recognize that California adheres to a pure comparative fault system, wherein the individual responsible for the accident bears the financial responsibility. Determining fault can result in one party being entirely accountable or a shared responsibility where both parties are partially at fault.
Under this fault system, it’s vital to understand that to secure compensation, the injured party must demonstrate the following:
Duty of Care
Breach of Duty
Causation
Damages
Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Uber Insurance Coverage for Drivers in Merced, California
The insurance requirements for Uber drivers differ significantly from those for regular automobile drivers. Rideshare companies mandate that drivers operating in the Merced area maintain a minimum liability insurance coverage of:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $30,000 for property damage
Additionally, if a driver is without a passenger, California requires an extra $200,000 of liability coverage in the event of a severe accident. It’s important to note that once a driver picks up a passenger, the rideshare company provides additional insurance. Uber and Lyft offer their drivers $1 million in liability insurance per incident and $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident.
Clear rules exist to determine whether the Uber driver’s insurance or the company’s insurance is applicable in a given accident scenario:
- Logged Off
When an Uber driver logs off their app, they are deemed unavailable for accepting reservations, and the company assumes zero liability in the event of an accident. This occurs when the driver is engaged in personal errands or chooses not to accept rides at that moment.
- Logged On But No Passenger
Upon logging onto the app and signaling readiness to accept passengers, the driver becomes prepared to pick up a passenger when a reservation request is made. According to California law, during this phase, the driver must have the $50,000/$100,000/$30,000 auto policy in effect.
- Available and With Passenger
Upon accepting a reservation, Uber’s $1 million policy covers any accidents where the Uber driver is deemed at fault. This coverage persists until the passenger exits the vehicle, emphasizing the significance of the accident’s circumstances during this timeframe.
If you’ve been in an accident and need assistance, seeking help from experienced Merced Uber lawyers is a common and understandable need. Our legal team understands the web of insurance laws, recognizing their impact on each case, contingent upon the circumstances and timing of the accident. Going through the complications of personal injury law alone is unnecessary when you choose the qualified Merced Uber accident attorneys at Arash Law.
Can I Sue Uber Directly?
Yes. While it is feasible in specific scenarios to file a lawsuit against Uber’s company for an accident, winning a rideshare lawsuit can only prove exceptionally challenging with the proper legal representation. The debate over accountability for self-driving car accidents resurfaced in 2018 when an Uber driver caused a fatality in Arizona while testing the company’s autonomous vehicle control system. However, it shifted with the enactment of California’s Proposition 22 in 2020, firmly establishing Uber drivers in the state as independent contractors.
The classification of drivers as independent contractors is distinct from employees. Proposition 22 diminishes Uber’s likelihood of being held responsible for its drivers’ actions. Consequently, fault in a collision is seldom attributed to Uber as a company but to the individuals directly implicated in the crash.
The legal implications surrounding rideshare accidents necessitate a well-informed lawyer to handle the case successfully. Our experienced Merced Uber accident lawyers understand the importance of Uber accident cases, ensuring that your rights are protected, and your case is taken care of with diligence. If you are dealing with the effects of a rideshare accident, contact Arash Law for a comprehensive consultation to discuss the specifics of your case and explore the best course of action.
Get Outstanding Legal Support from Merced Uber Accident Lawyers Today!
Disturbing reports began to surface about accidents, assaults, and harassment incidents involving Uber drivers, resulting in harm to both passengers and innocent bystanders. As a victim in such a situation, you have the right to seek compensation from the negligent party for damages. If you find yourself injured as a passenger in an Uber and need the assistance of experienced Merced Uber accident lawyers, don’t hesitate to contact Arash Law today.
Led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our Merced-based legal team boasts significant success in handling Uber and other rideshare claims. We excel in dealing with insurance disputes to secure the maximum possible recovery for our clients. You are strongly recommended to refrain from accepting any settlement offer from the rideshare company’s insurance carrier without first consulting Arash Law. Remember that if we do not achieve a favorable outcome for your case, you are not obligated to pay any fees.
Discover our legal proficiency across various California locations and neighboring cities within Merced, such as Atwater, Livingston, Chowchilla, Turlock, Los Banos, Ceres, Madera, Modesto, Patterson, Oakdale, Mendota, Riverbank, Kerman, Ripon, and Manteca. Regardless of your location in Merced, our Uber accident lawyers are ready to provide reliable support when needed.
Whether you were the driver, a passenger, or a third party involved in an Uber accident, we are here to assist you. Having secured over $500 Million in compensation for our clients indicates our excellent legal expertise. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free consultation. Your peace of mind is our priority, and we are committed to guiding you through every step of your legal journey.
