Richmond 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 Richmond Uber Accident Lawyers Advocate For Your Rights After An Injury
Millions of commuters use ridesharing services like Uber due to their convenience and accessibility. However, these convenient trips can run into accidents that can potentially cause serious injuries. If you get hurt in an Uber accident, you might have legal grounds to hold the negligent parties accountable for compensating you. Our Richmond Uber accident lawyers can guide you through the process of filing a claim for compensation. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free first case review.
Richmond is a bustling city across San Francisco Bay in western Contra Costa County. Its prime location provides an ideal connection to other cities. Residents can travel through Interstates 80, 580, 680, and 880 to explore San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Sacramento, Vallejo, Fairfield, and Central Marin County. Meanwhile, tourists can reach Richmond through major airports such as Oakland and San Francisco International Airports.
Uber is one of the top transportation options in the city. However, the popularity of this ridesharing service also raises the risk of traffic accidents. If another person’s negligence leads to a rideshare crash that causes you injuries, call our Uber accident attorneys in Richmond. We can assist you in establishing the liability of the responsible parties and pursuing compensation.
You don’t have to worry about the cost of our services upfront, as Arash Law offers a contingency fee agreement. Clients don’t have to pay attorney fees unless they’re able to collect compensation for their Uber accident case. Note that certain other case-related costs may still need to be paid regardless of the outcome. However, our law firm will work to seek legal options aimed at helping you uphold your rights.
A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Work With Our Richmond Uber Accident Lawyers?
You can consult our Uber accident lawyers in Richmond for their experience handling numerous injury cases, including those involving rideshare crashes. Here are some other reasons why you may want to bring your case to us.
- Our personal injury attorneys have decades of combined experience handling Uber accident cases. We understand the laws governing ridesharing services, as well as the intricacies of Uber’s insurance policy.
- During our initial consultation, we will carefully listen to your situation, understand your goals, and, if you have a case, create a customized strategy to support your claim.
- Our team understands that dealing with injuries and the legal system can be challenging. That’s why we’ll work to keep you informed about the progress of your case and assist you throughout the claims process.
- Our Uber accident attorneys in Richmond are skilled at negotiating settlements with insurance companies. We are prepared to advocate for your rights in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
Finding Uber Accident Attorneys For Your Case
Enlisting the services of an experienced lawyer you feel comfortable working with may help you better understand your case and help you feel supported throughout the claims process. To help you find the right Richmond Uber accident lawyer for your case, consider the following:
- Look for personal injury lawyers who are experienced specifically in handling Uber accident cases.
- Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism, communication skills, and overall services.
- Consult a lawyer familiar with Richmond’s legal landscape, as local knowledge can be beneficial when dealing with regional laws and regulations.
- Consider a lawyer who is a good communicator who can explain legal concepts in simple terms and keep you updated throughout your case. Your Uber accident attorney should be someone who can devote time and attention to your case.
- Look for a lawyer who offers clear, upfront information about their fees and payment structure.
- Consider an attorney from a law firm with the necessary resources to investigate, gather evidence, and build a well-supported case on your behalf.
- Take advantage of free initial consultations. Use this opportunity to discuss your case, learn about their approach, and assess whether they are a good fit.
- Seek a lawyer you feel comfortable with. Personal compatibility can potentially enhance the lawyer-client relationship.
Consider having our experienced Uber accident attorneys in Richmond review your case. You can leverage our free first consultations to assess whether we’d be suitable for handling your claim. We can also use our meeting to explain how we may help you pursue recompense for your losses.
How Uber Accidents Happen
Traffic incidents involving Uber can occur in various ways. Our Richmond attorneys for Uber accidents have helped handle numerous cases caused by these factors:
- Distracted Driving — Drivers are more likely to be distracted when they use their phones for navigation or talk to riders while driving.
- Fatigued Driving — Any motorist can drive while fatigued. However, California law lets Uber drivers drive for up to 12 hours at a time. Some Uber drivers may extend their duty hours to complete more trips and earn more. This decision is likely to lead to fatigued driving, which increases the risk of accidents.
- DUI — Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs, alcohol, or prescribed medications can impair a driver’s cognitive functions. They are likely to compromise their safe driving skills and cause an accident.
- Speeding — Though any road user can speed, Uber drivers may exceed the speed limit to reach their next customers quickly. This can potentially lead to behaviors like tailgating, which often causes rear-end collisions.
- Navigation Errors — Drivers can easily get lost and take wrong turns, especially when driving in unfamiliar places. They might also not know which intersections are busy and what obstacles are posted there.
- Unsafe Drop-Off Points — Uber drivers might pull their vehicles over in unsafe locations prone to accidents.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance — Uber and its drivers must check their vehicles regularly to address worn auto parts. If they don’t inspect their cars, they might encounter mechanical failures, such as faulty brakes, tires, or lights, that could cause accidents.
If you get into an Uber accident for these reasons, consult our injury lawyers in Richmond. We can potentially help you file a claim against one or more negligent parties, depending on the specifics of your case. We may be able to help you pursue compensation for the losses you suffered, including medical expenses, missed earnings, and emotional distress.
Hurt in an Uber Accident?
Usual Injuries Sustained In Richmond Uber Accidents
Similar to truck accidents, collisions involving Uber cars result in catastrophic injuries. Our Richmond Uber accident attorneys have assisted victims with the following injuries:
Whiplash
When cars suddenly stop or make sharp turns, the passenger’s head might jerk abruptly, often resulting in strain and nerve damage to the neck and leading to whiplash. Affected individuals might feel chronic pain, dizziness, and discomfort. Whiplash may require weeks or even months of rest, which might require victims to take time off work.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
The forceful impact of collisions between Uber cars and other vehicles may cause passengers’ heads to hit rigid surfaces. These incidents are likely to cause TBIs, such as concussions, contusions, and hematomas. Severe cases might lead to long-term health issues, such as:
- Memory loss
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Movement disorders
Victims with TBIs may require surgery and rehabilitation, which can be expensive. These medical treatments might also hinder them from reporting to work, causing them to lose wages.
If you are in this situation, contact our Uber accident lawyers. We can process a valid claim on your behalf and work to help you pursue compensation for your lost earnings and out-of-pocket expenses.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The intense force of Uber accidents can potentially damage the spinal cord. If left untreated, injuries to this area can worsen over time. These might also result in permanent disabilities and paralysis that affect the victim’s movement and daily activities.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Collisions between rideshare cars and other vehicles might yield strong impacts, damaging soft tissue in different body parts. These injuries may range from slight bruising to more severe conditions, such as:
- Sprains
- Strains
- Tendonitis
- Ligament tears
- Bursitis
Though full recovery is possible, there are cases where a soft tissue injury leads to persistent pain and mobility issues. If this happens, you might have to seek medical intervention to prevent complications. If you end up becoming one of our clients, our Richmond lawyers working on Uber accidents might be able to connect you with medical professionals who can address your injuries. We can also work to help you pursue compensation for your medical bills and the pain and suffering you endured.
Fractures
Victims may sustain broken bones or fractures when a specific body part experiences too much pressure after a collision. Broken bones can occur anywhere, but are more common in the extremities and ribs. Facial fractures may also happen due to the impact of the airbag or contact with other parts of the car.
Cuts And Lacerations
During collisions, the vehicle’s windows might shatter, causing broken glass and debris to fly everywhere. You will likely sustain cuts and lacerations if these fragments land on you.
These seemingly minor injuries pose serious health risks, including:
- Gangrene
- Blood loss
- Wound infection
- Swelling
- Amputations
In some cases, cuts and lacerations might lead to scars and permanent disfigurement. These might cause you to lose confidence and enjoyment of life, as you might feel anxious about your appearance.
If you suffer these injuries, our Richmond attorneys for Uber accidents can guide you through the process of pursuing accountability from the negligent parties for your injuries and the resulting emotional distress.
Wrongful Deaths
The most serious Uber-related traffic accidents may result in the death of the victims. In this case, their surviving heirs may file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for losses such as burial expenses. It may also cover the potential future income the deceased could have made if they were still alive. However, pursuing this legal action can be complicated, requiring an in-depth understanding of how Uber’s liability insurance works.
If someone dear to you is killed in an Uber accident, call our lawyers to learn if we may initiate the claim on your behalf and work to pursue compensation following your loved one’s death.
What Damages Can You File A Claim For After An Uber Accident?
In Richmond and throughout California, injured victims may have the right to seek damages from Uber accidents. They may have legal grounds to seek compensation for the following:
- Hospitalization bills
- Surgeries and therapy
- Prescribed medications
- Future medical treatments
- Doctor visits
- Medical assistive devices
- Missed wages
- Lost future income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Victims may need to present actual bills and supporting documents, such as bank statements and pay stubs, to seek reimbursement for their financial losses. Meanwhile, the monetary value attached to nontangible damages may depend on how they have impacted the victim’s way of life.
Regardless of the damage you have suffered, you may have grounds to pursue compensation. Schedule a free initial consultation with our Richmond Uber accident attorneys so we can assist in evaluating the damages you may be eligible to seek.
Uber’s Liability Insurance
Uber provides liability insurance coverage for both its drivers and passengers. This policy intends to protect individuals in case accidents occur during a ride. However, it’s important to note that the coverage depends on the specifics of the incident.
Victims need to take into account these periods:
- Period 0
If an Uber driver causes an accident while inactive or logged out of the app, their personal auto insurance may cover the damages incurred by the victim. Uber does not offer additional liability coverage during this period. - Period 1
If an accident occurs while the driver is logged into the ridesharing app but has not yet accepted a ride, their auto insurance can shoulder any accident-related costs. However, Uber may offer supplemental liability coverage if the driver is underinsured or uninsured. The rideshare company may pay up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage. - Period 2
If an Uber driver gets into an accident while on his way to pick up passengers, his auto insurance policy may be responsible for the damages suffered by the victim. Uber might also provide up to $1 million worth of additional liability coverage. - Period 3
Accidents may also happen while the driver takes the passenger to the specified drop-off location. At this time, Uber provides third-party liability insurance coverage similar to that offered in Period 2.
Navigating Uber’s insurance policy can be complicated, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Contact our Richmond Uber accident attorneys at (888) 488-1391. In your case, we can explain the nuances involved and how the rideshare company’s insurance may work. That includes the fact that the compensation you’re eligible to pursue isn’t likely to match up with the extent of its policy limits.
Who Is Liable For An Uber Accident?
- Uber Driver — Uber drivers without proper training are prone to errors. These include speeding, reckless driving, running red lights, and operating their vehicle while distracted or impaired.
- Uber’s Negligence — Although Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors, the company must conduct thorough background checks. Hiring unfit drivers may lead to unfortunate incidents in the future.
- Third-Party Motorists — Even if rideshare drivers are careful, a car accident can still occur due to the negligence of other motorists. The latter may hit Uber cars and cause injuries to either the driver or the rider.
- Car Manufacturers — The manufacturer can be held liable if a defective vehicle component causes an accident. This situation is common, especially since Uber does not conduct vehicle safety inspections.
- Government Entities — Uber accidents may happen when drivers pass through deteriorating roads. Potholes, missing guardrails, poorly planned junctions, and broken traffic lights may make driving difficult. In these cases, government entities can be held liable.
Who Is Liable For An Uber Accident?
Uber crashes can be the result of negligence by the parties whose actions directly caused the accident. The usual parties liable are:
- Uber Driver — Uber drivers, both with or without proper training, may make errors behind the wheel. These include speeding, reckless driving, running red lights, and operating a vehicle while distracted or impaired.
- Uber’s Negligence — Although Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors, the company must conduct thorough background checks. They may be held liable for hiring unfit drivers, such as those with a history of DUI arrests, if those drivers cause accidents in the future.
- Third-Party Motorists — Even if rideshare drivers are careful, a car accident can still occur due to the negligence of other motorists. The latter may hit Uber cars and cause injuries to either the driver or the rider.
- Car Manufacturers — The manufacturer can be held liable if a defective vehicle component causes an accident. This situation may be more likely to occur in rideshare vehicles, given that Uber does not conduct vehicle safety inspections.
- Government Entities — Uber accidents may happen when drivers pass through deteriorating roads. Potholes, missing guardrails, poorly planned junctions, and broken traffic lights can make driving difficult. In these cases, government entities may be held liable.
In California, determining liability for the incident is one of the crucial steps in seeking financial compensation. The individual or entity that caused the accident is usually responsible for covering medical expenses and other damages. If you are uncertain what caused your Uber accident, get in touch with our lawyers in Richmond. We can evaluate the facts of the incident and identify the contributing factors.
December 2016: $22M+ verdict in a mild traumatic brain injury case. The entire details of the case can be found in the public record filings by the defendant entity that sued its defense.– BRIAN BEECHER
How To Establish Liability In An Uber Accident
Liability in Uber accidents stems from the negligence of at-fault parties. To establish negligence, your Uber accident lawyer must prove the following elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — For example, Uber drivers have a legal duty to act with reasonable care to avoid causing accidents. They must adhere to traffic laws and maintain the reasonable safety of their passengers and other road users.
- Breach of Duty — Sometimes, drivers act carelessly, such as overspeeding, tailgating, running red lights, and making other driving errors, breaching their duty of care.
- Direct Causation — Victims must demonstrate that the at-fault party’s negligence directly caused the accident. For example, a crash might be caused by the rideshare driver failing to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian in a crosswalk.
- Damages — Finally, plaintiffs must show that the Uber accident resulted in damages and losses. They might present medical records, repair invoices, and other documentation to support their claim for compensation.
Demonstrating the liability of responsible parties is not a straightforward process, particularly if more than one of them caused your accident due to negligence. If this happens, you can seek legal guidance from our Richmond lawyers, who are skilled at handling Uber accident claims. We can gather evidence to help us prove liability and pursue compensation for your losses.
What Should You Do After An Uber Accident In Richmond?
Uber accidents can leave victims shocked and perplexed about what to do next. However, to protect your legal rights, you must remain calm and mindful of your actions.
Here’s a sample list of steps you can follow:
- Call 911 — Allow emergency responders to check on you and treat your injuries. You must also see a doctor afterward, even if you feel fine. Remember, injuries like TBIs aren’t immediately apparent and may take time to manifest symptoms.
- Contact the Police — Law enforcement authorities will respond to help preserve and investigate the accident scene. They will also create an accident report, which may serve as evidence supporting your claim.
- Gather Evidence — Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, the sustained injuries, wrecked vehicles, and even the tire marks. Ask about the other party’s identification and contact information. You should also get the testimonies of the witnesses if there are any.
- Inform Your Insurance Company — Relay important details like where, when, and how the Uber accident happened. However, you shouldn’t discuss more than that. You may accidentally say something that weakens your claim, such as admitting fault for the crash. Don’t rush to accept an initial offer, as it might not be enough to cover all your damages and support you through recovery.
- Speak with Arash Law — Our personal injury attorneys have been helping injured accident victims for decades. After reviewing your case, we may be able to help you deal with the paperwork, communicate with the insurance company, and advocate for your interests. Call our Richmond attorneys at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your Uber accident claim.
Statute Of Limitations For Uber Accident Cases
As per California’s statute of limitations, victims may pursue a personal injury claim within two years after an Uber accident. However, this time limit may change depending on the parties involved in your case.
For instance, the court may set another deadline if it discovers that the defendants are minors, out-of-state defendants, still in jail, or mentally incapacitated. Seeking guidance from Uber accident attorneys in Richmond can help you file your claim within the applicable time frame.
Statistics About Uber Accidents
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft continue to gain popularity due to their convenience and accessibility. A 2023 analysis showed that Uber generated $37.2 billion in revenue, an increase of 16% from the previous year. Its drivers also completed 9.44 billion trips, almost two billion more than the prior year’s record.
Furthermore, Uber’s U.S. Safety report reported that almost 3.1 billion trips were completed in the U.S. from 2019 to 2020. A 2021 study supported this report and stated that Uber and other rideshare companies may have helped reduce alcohol-related traffic fatalities by 6%.
Although statistics show positive results, it can’t be denied that traffic collisions involving Uber continue to happen in Richmond and across California. Because of this, our Richmond attorneys maintain their commitment to guide and support victims of Uber accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Uber Accidents
Do I Need A Lawyer After An Uber Accident?
After an Uber accident, you might wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer to this is likely yes, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with California’s rideshare laws or the claims process.
Our experienced car accident lawyers, who are well-versed in Uber accident cases, can assist you with reviewing and potentially filing your claim. They can also build a well-supported case against the liable party and negotiate with insurance companies to help you seek damages for your claim.
To have your case represented with advocacy and skilled preparation, call Arash Law and talk to our Richmond Uber accident lawyers.
How Do I Find An Experienced Uber Accident Lawyer Near Me?
Looking for Uber accident attorneys in Richmond can be challenging. However, those capable of reviewing your accident and handling your claim often possess a few unique skills and characteristics.
When looking for Uber accident lawyers, you can consider the following:
- Experience handling Uber accident claims
- Knowledge of personal injury and rideshare laws in California
- Contingency fee agreements
- Negotiation and litigation skills
- Advocacy for injured clients seeking compensation
With this in mind, consider consulting Arash Law’s personal injury attorneys, many of whom have experience handling Uber accident claims. You can schedule a free initial consultation to assess whether you’d like us to handle your case.
I Don’t Feel Any Pain After My Uber Accident. Should I See A Doctor?
It is important to consult your doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine following an Uber crash. Some accident victims experience a delay in symptoms. They may feel fine for hours or even days, only to have excruciating pain flare up later. An early medical assessment can help prevent this and avoid complications.
Furthermore, delaying medical attention may be detrimental to your case. This action may imply that you caused your own injuries to worsen, or that the physical harm you sustained after an accident wasn’t serious enough to warrant immediate care. Your medical records will serve as evidence of the extent of your injuries, the treatment you received, and the progress of your recovery.
If you don’t know where to find hospitals in Richmond, our Uber accident lawyers can refer you to our partner doctors. As long as your medical expenses are accident-related, we may have grounds to pursue compensation from the negligent parties for these costs.
Who Pays For Your Damages In An Uber Accident?
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means whoever causes the accident shall be liable for the damages. For Uber accidents, for example, rideshare drivers may be liable if they’re proven to have committed driving errors that led to collisions. If one or more parties are deemed liable, they will share liability proportionately.
To learn more about this legal concept, reach out to our Richmond lawyers for Uber accidents. We can explain the percentage of each at-fault party’s liability and how that may affect your ability to seek damages.
What Happens If Uninsured Or Underinsured Motorists Cause Uber Accidents?
In California, drivers are required to have personal auto insurance. However, this may not cover incidents that occur while the vehicle is being used for commercial purposes, such as ridesharing. In such cases, commercial auto insurance may be necessary to cover any damages they might be responsible for.
Accordingly, drivers must maintain the following minimum liability coverage:
- $30,000 for each person injured or killed.
- $60,000 for total injuries or deaths per accident.
- $15,000 for property damage.
Uber may offer to cover the damages under its third-party liability insurance if crashes occur involving drivers with insufficient or no policy. The amount of the payment given to victims will then vary depending on the classification of rideshare drivers’ activity when the accident happened, whether they belong to periods 0 to 3. Our Richmond Uber accident lawyers can help you understand this matter.
What Happens If I Am An Undocumented Immigrant Injured In An Uber Accident?
Undocumented residents may still have legal grounds to file personal injury claims. California law allows victims to seek damages, regardless of their immigration status. As such, they would still be eligible to pursue compensation, just like citizens or documented immigrants.
Reach out to our attorneys in Richmond if you’re an undocumented immigrant who got injured in an Uber accident. Our team can guide you through the claims process. We also provide clients with legal representation and advocate for their rights while negotiating with insurance companies.
You can reach us online by filling out our “Do I Have A Case?” form here.
Consult With Our Richmond Uber Accident Lawyers Committed To Pursuing Justice
Uber accidents can change your life in an instant. If you’re an injured victim, Arash Law may be able to help you seek damages. Our Uber accident attorneys can guide you through the legal side of your crash, helping estimate the value of your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering, so we may use it as a basis for pursuing compensation.
We’ll advocate for your rights and can negotiate with insurance companies with the goal of reaching a settlement that closely reflects your damages. With our guidance and legal knowledge, you may be able to navigate the claims process more confidently. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Besides Richmond, other neighboring cities and locations our law firm serves include San Pablo, El Sobrante, El Cerrito, Albany, Pinole, Berkeley, Hercules, Tiburon, Piedmont, Oakland, Orinda, and Tara Hills, as well as other locations throughout California.
