Oakland Uber Accident Lawyers
with over $500 Million Recovered in Compensation for Injury Clients.
Recover Lost Wages, Property Damages, and Medical Fees.
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Table of Contents
- Crash Statistics in Oakland
- Car Accident Laws to Know in California
- Common Uber Accident Cases in Oakland
- Common Causes of Oakland Uber Accidents
- Oakland Passenger Safety
- Driver Rights in Oakland
- What to Do After an Uber Accident in Oakland
- Five Things Not to Do After a Car Accident in Oakland
- Why You Need The Help of Skilled Oakland Uber Accident Lawyers
- Oakland Uber Accident Compensation
- Injuries in Oakland Uber Collisions
- How Does Insurance Work for an Oakland Rideshare Accident?
- Liability in a Ridesharing Accident
- Rideshare Insurance Policies
- Financial Awards for Ridesharing Accident Injuries
- Uber’s Insurance Coverage
- Compensation Available for an Oakland Uber Accident
- How to File a Claim with Help from Trusted Oakland Uber Accident Lawyers
Get Compensation For Your Injuries with our
Oakland Uber Accident Lawyers
Uber accidents are prevalent throughout Oakland and the Bay Area. These accidents can result in severe or fatal injuries for those involved. All it takes is one second to change your life. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 and speak to experienced Oakland Uber accident lawyers to explore your legal options today.
There are many ways that Uber accidents can happen, from speeding drivers to reckless third parties. Collisions can happen with other motorists or pedestrians. Arash Law, founded by famous attorney Arash Khorsandi, Esq., can help with the legal aspect of getting your claim to justice.
Victims are reeling from the consequences of an Uber accident. It is only right that Uber drivers or other negligent parties are held accountable for the injuries and losses they cause. The best way to protect yourself and get the compensation you deserve is by working with our Uber accident lawyers in Oakland.
Multiple Plaintiffs
$27,000,000.00
2019: $27M confidential settlement in a case involving multiple plaintiffs.– BRIAN BEECHER
Crash Statistics in Oakland
Oakland is the largest city in the San Francisco Bay area as well as in Alameda County. According to the last census report, there is a population of 419,267, making it the 45th largest city in the country. Contributing to traffic congestion are several significant highways throughout Oakland. It is a known fact that traffic congestion leads to vehicle collisions. Uber crashes are among those collisions.
According to reports by the Office of Traffic Safety, 3,178 people suffered an injury or died in 2015 in car accidents. Among those were 235 motorcyclists, 210 bicyclists, and 340 pedestrians. Two hundred forty-four accidents involved alcohol consumption. Four of which involved drivers under the legal drinking age (21). In 2016, California saw 3,623 traffic fatalities.
Alameda County had 9,867 victims who suffered injury or death in traffic collisions. A minimum of 890 of those collisions involved alcohol. For the same year, there were 2,523 speed-related collisions.
While those numbers are alarming for the state, there are staggering numbers for Oakland. For the same reporting year of 2015, there were 624 fatal or injury collisions in Oakland involving speed. Of those, 463 were hit and run, and 371 occurred at night.
According to reports by the Office of Traffic Safety, 2,289 people suffered an injury or died in 2020 in vehicular crashes. Among those were 143 motorcyclists, 154 bicyclists, and 255 pedestrians. There were 131 victims killed or injured in crashes involving alcohol consumption. Three of which involved drivers under the legal drinking age (21). In 2021, California saw 4,285 traffic fatalities.
OTS reported that Alameda County had 7,856 victims who suffered injury or death in traffic collisions. A minimum of 689 of those collisions involved alcohol. For the same year, there were 1,691 speed-related collisions.
While those numbers are alarming for the state, there are staggering numbers for Oakland. For the same reporting year of 2020, there were 251 fatal or injury collisions in Oakland involving speed. Of those, 496 were hit and run, and 287 occurred at night.
Uber US Safety Report for 2019-2020 found that “101 individual motor vehicle fatalities occurred across 91 fatal Uber-related crashes.” The report cited speeding and impaired driving as the top causes of death. Tragically, 64% of the fatalities were pedestrians, 29% were third-party motorcyclists, and 7% were cyclists.
These statistics scare many motorists with good reason. The consequences of car accidents are catastrophic in many cases. Pedestrians and other vulnerable road users could only wish drivers were more careful since that can prevent accidents. Distracted, reckless, and negligent drivers cause injuries and death yearly. These actions are preventable. While we cannot change driver actions, our dedicated lawyers for Uber accidents in Oakland can represent victims and their loved ones.
Arash Law gives voices to victims who might not have a voice otherwise. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyers have decades of experience helping clients recover compensation and get justice for their collision. Call our offices at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review today.
Car Accident Laws to Know in California
The first step is to take swift action and speak to trusted Uber accident lawyers in Oakland. While our Oakland rideshare accident lawyers have the legal training to handle accident claims, you must understand your rights. The critical legal elements you should familiarize yourself with are fault, the insurance claims process, and how to get financial recovery.
Numerous federal, state, and local laws can apply to your case. Here are a few of the most important ones:
- At-fault car insurance rules – California handles claims using the concept of fault. That means another party at fault is responsible for paying your damages. Injured parties will bring their claims to the at-fault driver’s insurance company first. They can also file for reimbursement from their insurers in some circumstances.
- Comparative negligence laws – In California, pure comparative negligence is the rule for courts handling accident claims. Pure comparative negligence means both parties can share fault in an accident, which can benefit victims in some cases and be a detriment in others. As the claimant, you can be partially responsible for causing a collision and still be eligible to pursue damages. The caveat is the equivalence of your fault percentage will reduce your award.
- Damage awards available – You can pursue recovery for medical bills, lost income, property damages, rental car costs, disability, etc., under California law. Your damages will vary based on the facts of your Uber collision.
California fault laws allow injured parties to sue the other driver for minor losses. If you suffered losses under $10,000, you can take your case to small claims court for recovery. However, most of the time, accident damages are recovered through an insurance claim. These claims will often garner higher damage awards as well. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyers can give you an estimate of the damages you can claim.
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My husband had an accident 2 years ago, a 85 years old man hit him, the Arash law group works very well on my husband case that took 9 month and he won the case and my husband was happy with the results. A year later I got into an accident as well and I’m still waiting in my case is almost resolving and it’s 9 months already. This people knows the law and they do their job right to help you out in getting the most for you to fight on your behalf. I strongly recommend the Arash Law firm they do things right in a efficient and professional manner.
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Had a great experience with all the people at Arash law. Long story short was in a bad car accident. It was overwhelming and the whole process was a lot, but they kept me in the loop. They answered all my questions and gave me great advice. Couldn't be any happier. Would definitely recommend anyone looking for a personal injury lawyer. They'll guide you through the whole process!
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Having Arash Law handle my auto accident was the best decision I could have made. Everyone I interacted with was kind, professional and detail oriented. I am extremely happy with the outcome and would recommend them highly.
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From start to finish, Arash Law firm is there every step of the way with close, constant, personal contact and attention. I never knew a Law firm could actually care so much for me as a person and what I was personally going through as well as the settlement I was going to recieve once my case was finally completed. Thank you to everyone at Arash Law for your ongoing support and communication. You are the ONLY firm I will ever recommend to someone who is need of a great attorny.
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I had an excellent experience with Arash Law. I will definitely recommend to my family and friends. I interviewed a few firms before deciding to work with Arash Law. What made my experience excellent was (i.e. head attorney being accessible to talk to and he answered all my questions and concerns, sensitive and thorough personel who completed in home intake & follow up process, being connected immediately to quality Physicians who addressed my injuries and recovery process, clear contract-read throughly to ensure its something you can commit to). Being in a car accident is a traumatic experience and I had a sense of peace knowing Arash Firm was walking with me throughout the whole process. Thank you Arash Firm for all your hard work and help. I am so grateful and appreciative for you all! 🙏
With Gratitude,
Monica Parra
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Are Uber Accidents Common?
Uber promotes safety for their drivers and passengers. Still, there is a risk every time you book a ride, the same with every time you get behind the wheel. Even so, accidents are not unheard of and happen more often than you think. Uber users are increasing, and so are Uber accidents in Oakland. The number is high, but not enough for anyone to swear off rideshares forever.
Besides the driver’s credentials, many risks are present when getting into a rideshare. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyers are more focused on what happens before and after these collisions than on how many crashes there are. Uber does not have a strict hiring process, which often contributes to these accidents.
Common Uber Accident Cases in Oakland
The most considerable risk is the Uber driver making a grave error that causes a life-altering crash. Uber accidents can happen in many ways, including:
- An Uber driver causes a collision with a customer in the vehicle.
- An Uber driver causes a crash with a pedestrian or bicyclist.
- An Uber driver crashes into another vehicle.
- Another motorist causes a collision with an Uber.
You can be injured in any of these collisions as an Uber customer. The worst part is you have no control in any of these instances. You are suffering an injury, and you are not at fault. But do keep in mind that you have options for recovery when you call an Oakland Uber accident lawyer.
Common Causes of Oakland Uber Accidents
Uber drivers can face many dangers while driving. They are under extreme pressure to finish a ride to get another one and keep making money. This pressure often makes them drive recklessly and endanger their passengers. Many of the collisions on the road are caused by negligent Uber drivers. Arash Law handles various rideshare accidents. If you are in an accident, call our Oakland Uber accident lawyers immediately.
Uber drivers also face more distractions than other motorists since using an app is the most significant part of their job. They are also using GPS for navigation. Other common issues are recklessness, intoxication, and fatigue. Uber drivers have no limit to how many hours they can work. That means they will stay logged on longer to make more money.
It’s also worth noting that Uber accidents do not all happen because of Uber drivers. Other motorists or parties can also cause a collision. While some Uber drivers are reckless, others are careful. There are third-party road users you might have to worry about. They can cause accidents for similar reasons to negligent Uber drivers. Other reasons include a failure to yield, running stop signs, inclement weather, vehicle defects, defective road designs, etc. If you suffer an injury from a collision with an Uber, call Arash Law to learn more about how you can retrieve the maximum compensation for your damages. An Uber accident lawyer in Oakland will investigate your collision and determine who is responsible.
Every car accident is unique, but there are many similarities. Over four decades of experience handling car accident cases, we have seen some common reasons for car crashes. Knowing what they are can help you on the road and during your accident claim. Some of the most typical causes of Uber accidents include the following:
- Texting and driving
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Breaking road rules
- Drowsy driving
- Defective vehicle parts
- Inexperienced drivers
- Roadway hazards
- Running stop signs and red lights
- Poor vehicle maintenance
Driver error, dangerous roadways, and lack of vehicle maintenance are all preventable causes of collisions. Negligence is to blame for most of these causes. Accidents will be avoided if drivers take care of their vehicles and follow the law. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyers will find out who is responsible and why. Then, we will work to hold them accountable.
Oakland Passenger Safety
Aside from collisions, there are other dangers you can face from riding in an Uber. The drivers do not have training or undergo an extensive vetting process. Drivers can pass an Uber background check with a criminal record. The background checks only go back a few years. That means you can get a ride from a criminal who can attack you and not even know.
Uber has been fined millions of dollars for letting drivers with criminal records and motor vehicle offenses drive in their app. Even with these fines, they allow criminals to drive unsuspecting victims around. If the actions of an unqualified driver harm you and lead to injuries, you can benefit from filing a personal injury claim in Oakland.
Driver Rights in Oakland
Uber drivers are considered independent contractors. Workers’ compensation does not cover an Uber driver, nor do they have the same rights as full-time employees. You cannot drive your vehicle as a driver until Uber clears you. The company will often lock you out of the app for getting into an accident.
If your primary source of income is Uber, you will suffer significant lost income for weeks or months. Additionally, you can suffer injuries that prevent you from working. You should not be out of work for such a long time. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyers can assess your situation and find a path forward toward compensation.
What to Do After an Uber Accident in Oakland
What to do following a collision can be very confusing for the victim. You have injuries and are unsure what to do next. After an Uber accident, you should do the following:
- Check for injuries for everyone in your vehicle, starting with yourself.
- If you are at a busy intersection, do not exit the vehicle.
- Call 911 for first responders and police.
- Do not refuse a medical evaluation. Assuming your injuries are minor is a huge mistake. Some injuries have delayed symptoms, only appearing hours or days after the collision.
- Document the details of your accident in a journal or your notes.
- Gather contact information about the drivers and anyone involved in the collision.
- Using your cell phone, take pictures of the accident.
- Get the contact information for witnesses.
- Screenshot your status in the Uber app.
- Get insurance information for all drivers.
- Request an accident report from the police.
- Inform the treating physician that you were in an accident and need thorough records.
- Speak to the Oakland Uber accident lawyer from Arash Law.
Delaying specific actions can hurt your case in many ways. If you delay medical treatment, it hurts your claim and makes your injuries worse. Postponing talking to our Oakland Uber accident lawyer can result in losing your legal rights to compensation.
You have a stringent amount of time to file a claim. You can lose your rights if you fail to file within this timeframe. There are a few exceptions to the statute of limitations. An Uber accident lawyer in Oakland can help you get payment for your accident bills and replace or repair your vehicle. We will also negotiate the best settlement for your case.
Five Things Not to Do After a Car Accident in Oakland
While there are many things you should do after a car accident, there are others you should not.
Your top priority is to seek medical attention and legal representation. You must protect your rights after a collision, avoiding some critical mistakes. Making a mistake after an accident can harm your chances of securing compensation.
To maximize your compensation recovery and protect your rights, avoid these mistakes:
- Admitting fault or guilt – Never admit fault to the insurance company, police, or drivers. If you are a passenger in an Uber, this potential mistake might not apply to you. Refrain from saying sorry in any way, which can be considered an admission of guilt.
- Waiting before receiving medical treatment – Go to the hospital or doctor immediately following the accident. Get medical treatment even if you feel uninjured. You can have a hidden injury. Getting medical care directly shows the insurance company that your injuries were severe.
- Representing yourself in a claim – While it is possible to represent yourself in an injury claim, it is ill-advised. The insurance company will use the law against you. An Oakland Uber accident lawyer understands the laws and how they apply to your case. We aren’t afraid to negotiate for a higher settlement or go to trial if necessary.
- Saying yes to a quick settlement agreement – The insurance company will use your conversations to get you to trust them. They will get information out of you that hurts your claim. Then, they will turn around and offer you a fast settlement offer. These offers usually come before you reach maximum medical improvement. Resist the urge to settle. Instead, speak to Arash Law.
- Waiting too long to file a lawsuit – It is vital to move quickly because you only have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. You have three years to file for property damage claims. For claims involving government agencies, you only have six months. Missing a deadline means losing your chance at recovery.
You should also stay off social media or post about the accident. The insurance company is watching and will use these posts against you. If unsure what you can and cannot do, speak to qualified Uber accident lawyers in Oakland. Our legal team can answer your questions and guide you on what to do in the hours, days, and weeks after a collision.
Why You Need The Help of Skilled Oakland Uber Accident Lawyers
Uber accidents are some of the most challenging to recover compensation for. The company is unwilling to take care of injury victims or drivers. These accidents also have many different parties that can be involved and multiple insurance companies. Rideshare companies also have legal teams ready to deny claims. You must contact Oakland’s most trusted Uber accident lawyers for these and other reasons.
An Uber accident lawyer in O-Town can investigate your claim to determine liability. That is the most critical step. It involves gathering rideshare app data, witness statements, police reports, surveillance, etc. We will also work with financial and medical experts to calculate your expected losses correctly.
Some victims breathe a sigh of relief after an Uber accident because they assume the company has a comprehensive insurance policy. Uber does offer a $1 million coverage in cases of accidents. While the policy exists, however, it is not easily accessible. Sometimes, you can use this policy in conjunction with another policy. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyers will negotiate with the negligent parties’ insurance companies for maximum compensation.
Another benefit of hiring an Oakland Uber accident lawyer is that they can gather evidence that are otherwise challenging to obtain. There can be critical evidence that proves what happened and who caused the collision. Uber might have a dash cam. There can also be surveillance cameras nearby. While this evidence exists, gaining access to it can be tough. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyers will identify and acquire relevant evidence you need to win your case.
Uber insurance policies are complex. They have a $1 million insurance policy, which is only accessible in certain situations. The policy applies from when the driver accepts a ride request until the driver drops off a passenger, ending the ride. You must often file a claim with the driver’s insurance policy first. Due to these and other complications, working with an Oakland Uber accident lawyer is best.
Insurance companies make life difficult. Insurance adjusters are eager to settle for a low amount to impress their employers. They are not easy to negotiate or work with. Adjusters are ruthless in their search for a reason to deny your claim or limit compensation. The story changes when there is legal representation. Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., knows strategies to get through the red tape and get fair compensation.
Oakland Uber Accident Compensation
When you can access the Uber insurance policy, you can pursue compensation for various losses. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyer will fight to recover compensation for:
-
- Disability
- Medical expense
- Loss of life enjoyment
- Lost income
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
- Reduced earning capacity
The list above is not exhaustive, and you can recover other losses for other damages as well. Just make sure to keep all documentation and receipts for your injury claim. You will need these documents to review them with our Oakland Uber accident lawyer.
Injuries in Oakland Uber Collisions
Victims can suffer severe and life-threatening injuries after an Uber accident. Vehicle occupants, pedestrians, and cyclists will suffer various injuries depending on how the crash occurs. Some common injuries that happen in Oakland Uber accidents are:
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Contusions
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones
- Amputations
- Loss of bodily function
Many factors can dictate the injuries victims suffer and how severe they are. How the collision occurs and if speeding is involved can significantly impact your injuries. Your medical treatment and prognosis will also affect your compensation claim. Our Oakland Uber accident lawyer will help you get the appropriate medical attention and recover payment.
How Does Insurance Work for an Oakland Rideshare Accident?
Insurance policies are challenging, to begin with, but they become more complex in rideshare accidents. The first challenge is determining which insurance policy pays for a victim’s losses after an Uber crash. The insurance companies will review the driver’s status during the collision. Based on their status, different insurance policies will apply. The possibilities are as follows:
- A personal insurance policy kicks in if the Uber driver is not signed into the app and causes a collision. Their carrier is responsible for compensating injury victims.
- If the driver is signed on but does not have a passenger, a personal policy will apply for the most part. Uber and other rideshares have supplemental insurance policies that can kick in under certain circumstances. If a claim is denied on the driver’s insurance policy, then Uber will take over. It can also apply if the insurance benefits are exhausted.
- The Uber insurance policy kicks in when an Uber driver is signed into the app and has a passenger. It also applies when the driver has accepted a ride and is in transit to pick up the passenger.
While these are the basics of which insurance policies apply, there are many complexities. An Oakland Uber accident lawyer can review the insurance policies and determine the best course of action.
Liability in a Ridesharing Accident
In at-fault laws, the person responsible for a collision must cover the victim’s injuries and property damage. This coverage includes damages to other drivers, pedestrians, and vehicle occupants. California requires all drivers to carry the following minimums in their insurance policies:
- Bodily Injury Liability $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident
- Property damage liability of $5,000
- Uninsured bodily injury liability for the same limits above
- Uninsured property damage liability of $3,500
Drivers have the option to pay for higher premiums and limits. Most Uber drivers will have policies with higher premiums because of their rideshare status. When the policies max out, victims can pursue additional damages in court.
Rideshare Insurance Policies
Rideshare coverage is split into several periods with different coverages. Another factor to consider is that Uber drivers must have additional rideshare insurance on top of personal coverage. When the driver becomes active on the app, the rideshare policy will become active too.
In Period 1, drivers are signed on and waiting for a ride request. Their rideshare insurance will cover liability with the limits being:
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability
- $30,000 in property damage liability
- $200,000 in excess liability
Period 2 commences when the driver accepts a request and is en route to a passenger. Period three starts when the passenger enters the vehicle. A $1 million liability coverage will apply during Periods two and three.
California requires rideshare drivers to have rideshare insurance. Drivers must pay for these policies monthly, but they can only be used when the specific situation applies. They can face penalties and criminal charges if they fail to carry this insurance and are in a collision. When a driver turns off the app, personal insurance will apply again.
If the above sounds confusing, that’s because it is. Victims know they were in an accident and that someone must pay them. We can assess your damages and determine the insurance policy that applies. The intricacies can be left to an Oakland Uber accident lawyer.
Financial Awards for Ridesharing Accident Injuries
In most cases, the rideshare insurance policy will cover your damages. Some insurance companies will not do what is right. They will undermine your injuries and offer you less than your case worth. If an insurance company offers you a settlement before you have gotten an assessment of your injuries and damages, do not accept. Instead, speak to the Oakland Uber accident lawyers from Arash Law.
The financial awards you can receive are based on the circumstances of your case. Amounts will vary, but you can get paid for the following:
- Medical bills
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Rental vehicles
- Medical equipment
- Medications
- Lost income
- Loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
If a loved one dies in a collision, surviving family members can seek damages on their behalf. Your damage award will vary by your injuries and future treatment. If you cannot return to work in the same capacity as before, you can pursue future lost earnings. Our Oakland ridesharing accident lawyer is here to help you during this tragic time.
Uber’s Insurance Coverage
Uber is a transportation network company. That means it connects passengers with drivers of non-transport vehicles. Riders often enjoy cheaper fares but are taking enormous risks. There are fewer legal protections for rideshares than for taxis. Uber drivers and passengers can protect themselves by speaking with an Oakland Uber accident lawyer.
Uber and rideshare services, in general, are new. The laws are slow-moving, and few comprehensive laws protect drivers or passengers. That results in many injured parties fending for themselves after a car accident.
Uber’s website provides guidance on insurance regulations and coverages for their partners and riders. The website states:
- All drivers must have auto liability insurance meeting the minimum state requirements where they are driving.
- Uber offers minimum liability coverage of $50,000 for bodily injury for one person, $100,000 per accident in bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. These coverages apply when you turn on the app.
- Uber offers liability insurance of $1 million per accident from when a driver accepts a ride until the trip’s concussion.
Coverages are extensive when drivers have a passenger but are comparatively low when the driver does not. Uber makes the insurance process very complex. The Oakland Uber accident lawyers from Arash Law know how these policies work and how we can get you the compensation you deserve.
Motor Vehicle Accident
$3,500,000.00
Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Compensation Available for an Oakland Uber Accident
Uber crash victims will have different types of compensation available in Oakland. The Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law will work to calculate your economic and non-economic damages. Our goal is to help rideshare crash victims. Over the past few decades, we have recovered over $400 million in damages for our clients for losses, such as:
- Lost income
- Property damage like vehicle repairs or replacement
- Medical bills related to the crash, like hospitalizations and doctor’s visits
- Pain and suffering or mental anguish
- Out-of-pocket expenses like household assistance
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emergent medical bills
- Ongoing rehabilitative care
- Estimated future medical expenses
Everyone has different needs, and the same injury can impact two people differently. Working with an experienced Oakland Uber accident lawyer is vital to determine which damages apply to your case and how much they are worth.
How to File a Claim with Help from Trusted Oakland Uber Accident Lawyers
Uber accident victims must understand they have limited time to file lawsuits in court for their damages. Insurance carriers have strict reporting deadlines. Many insurance deadlines are within a day or two of the collisions. Failing to file a claim within these time frames can hinder your ability to recover compensation.
California also imposes strict deadlines for filing lawsuits. The statute is two years from the accident date. You will lose your rights if you do not file within this deadline. You must speak to a trusted Oakland Uber accident lawyer immediately. Before you can file a lawsuit, there are other steps you must take.
To file a claim, you must contact the insurance company and inform them a crash has occurred. Your status in the accident will determine how to proceed. An Uber driver in a collision will have a different process than an Uber passenger. The process also differs when another motorist causes the crash or a pedestrian is involved. Our Uber accident lawyer in Oakland can evaluate your case and find the best route.
How Can an Uber Accident Occur?
The truth is that Uber drivers are regular people who signed up for an app to make extra money. That means that Uber accidents happen in the same ways as other car accidents. Inattention is one of the biggest causes of vehicle accidents. Traffic ebbs and flows, and drivers must pay attention to react appropriately. When a driver isn’t paying attention, car accidents are the result.
One of the biggest causes of distraction is cell phone use. Texting and driving affect every driver. Uber drivers will rarely be texting or talking on the phone while driving. However, their cell phones are their lifeline to their employment. They must be watching to accept rides, looking for directions, and ending rides. Some drivers will send messages to passengers that they are arriving.
Talking to a passenger isn’t a crime, but it can be a distraction. Small talk can lead to intense conversations that take the driver’s eyes off the road or their attention. Another factor is drivers wanting to get as many rides as possible. The more rides they complete, the more money they make. This desire to make money leads to speeding and reckless driving. These factors can increase accident risk substantially.
What Are the Risks of Riding in an Uber?
Driving or being a passenger in a vehicle brings risks daily. There are risks when riding with friends or family, but you are comfortable with their skills. When you request an Uber ride, you get into a car with a stranger. You have no idea how they drive or their history. They can be a criminal or have a slew of traffic violations.
Uber has a screening process, but it is not extensive. Drivers will have a background and driving history check. However, these checks only go back a few years. It does not guarantee that the driver has a clean record. Irresponsible drivers can get on the app, sign up, and drive you around.
When our Oakland Uber accident lawyer investigates your case, we will complete a background check into their criminal and driving history. We will look for traffic infractions and tickets. Our findings can serve as evidence to help your personal injury claim. It will show Uber’s negligence in allowing the driver to work for them. It will also show a history of negligent driving from the driver.
Do Uber Drivers Have Insurance?
Uber offers insurance, but the responsibility is put on the driver. Uber fails to provide adequate insurance for their drivers, which makes accessing its policies nearly impossible. Uber drivers have different insurance options that will apply in other circumstances. Driver status is a significant contributor in determining which policy applies when. So, yes, Uber has insurance for their drivers, but it isn’t straightforward.
The three periods can determine which insurance policies to consider. The first is when a driver waits for a request, and Uber insurance will not cover losses. Periods two and three are when Uber policies can apply. Period two is when the driver picks up a passenger, and period three is when they have the passenger.
Are Uber Riders Safe?
There is always a risk of a car accident happening. The risk does not vary much from being in another car. Regarding car accidents, you are at the same or similar risk when in an Uber. The risk is slightly higher if you are with an irresponsible driver. Most Uber riders will make it to their destination safely without being in an accident.
You can be at risk for personal injury in other ways. Assault and injury can happen if you have an aggressive or malicious driver, for example. You must speak to an Oakland personal injury lawyer if you suffer an injury.
Were You Hurt Due to an Uber Accident?
You can fight for compensation if you suffered an injury in an Uber accident. You mustn’t accidentally or intentionally waive these rights by not getting adequate legal representation. To protect yourself and seek compensation for your injuries, you must speak to Arash Law.
Our experienced Oakland Uber accident lawyer understands driving laws, Uber policies, and your rights. We have experience fighting for our clients in these cases. Our team is with you every step of the way.
Contact Our Oakland Uber Accident Lawyers Today
You have options if you or someone you love has been involved in an Uber accident. Do not let these big companies scare you into a low settlement or unfairly deny your claim. When you contact Arash Law, an Oakland Uber accident lawyer will speak to you about your options.
In a case review, you can describe what happened. We will review your case and determine its merit. Upon agreeing to hire us, we will begin our investigation and hold the negligent motorist responsible for your losses.
We serve Oakland as well as Bakersfield, Berkeley, Contra Costa, Fresno, Irvine, Kern County, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Marin County, Merced, Modesto, Monterey, Newport Beach, Orange County, Pasadena, Placer, Santa Cruz, West Hollywood, and the rest of California.
Call Arash Law, headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq. at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
