Sacramento Uber Accident Lawyers
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Our Sacramento Uber Accident Lawyers Offer Dedicated Legal Support
Ridesharing services like Uber have become indispensable in the global transportation industry. However, their growing popularity has also led to an increase in accidents involving rideshare vehicles. If you or a loved one suffered injuries from an Uber crash, our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and legal options. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
The convenience and affordability of these services made it easier for people to get to their workplaces, schools, social events, and other destinations. Despite their widespread acceptance, ridesharing services are still relatively new, presenting legal challenges when accidents or disputes arise.
The rise of the “gig economy” has also played a significant role in increasing the number of rideshare vehicles on the road, as many individuals embrace driving for platforms like Uber as a part-time or full-time income source. Like other drivers in California, Uber drivers have a responsibility to avoid causing any injuries to other road users. In fact, they owe their passengers the highest level of care.
Unfortunately, Uber drivers are also just as prone to unsafe driving behaviors as any other motorists. When accidents occur, victims may face challenges when seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or other damages. Navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, especially when they’re still trying to heal from their injuries.
Our experienced Sacramento lawyers at Arash Law, founded by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., are dedicated to helping injured victims of Uber accidents. We will work diligently to help you pursue the justice and compensation available in your case.
Why Hire Arash Law’s Sacramento Uber Accident Lawyers
Hiring our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers can help you seek an appropriate settlement for your claims. Arash Law has a team of legal professionals who are committed to providing quality legal services.
Our attorneys have helped injured victims seek compensation for their losses. While we aim to settle cases outside of court, we’re prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. We understand that Uber accidents can be traumatic for you and your family. Our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys can handle the legal matters of your case so you can focus on your well-being. Here’s what our team offers:
- Experience In Rideshare Laws — Our lawyers are knowledgeable about rideshare laws, including insurance coverage issues, liability concerns, and the unique challenges that arise in Uber accident cases. We stay up to date with regulatory changes and Uber’s evolving policies to be prepared to handle the complex aspects of a personal injury claim.
- Thorough Investigation — Our lawyers can gather and preserve crucial evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and driver logs to determine what happened. We also work with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and other qualified consultants to provide insights that can help support your case.
- Client-Centered Approach — We offer personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation. Following an Uber accident, we can assist with the legal process, including investigating the crash, identifying liable parties, and managing the necessary paperwork and communications. This support allows you to concentrate on your recovery while legal matters are being addressed.
- Contingency Fee Agreement — Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis. In other words, you do not have to pay any attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. Still, certain case-related expenses may still apply.
Our client was driving with his wife and son on a two-lane highway when a drunk driver crossed the double yellow lines, causing a head-on collision that claimed the life of a loving wife and mother.– ARASH KHORSANDI
How Our Uber Accident Attorneys Can Help With Your Claim
If you’ve been in an Uber accident, proving who’s at fault is essential in pursuing compensation for damages. Our Sacramento injury law firm can manage the necessary tasks in filing a claim. Here’s how we can help:
- Gathering essential evidence.
- Conducting a thorough investigation of the accident.
- Communicating and negotiating with involved parties.
- Evaluating losses to estimate the potential worth of your claim.
- Tracking deadlines and filing requirements promptly.
- Pursuing claims with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary.
- Demonstrating how your injuries have impacted your quality of life.
- Seeking appropriate compensation for your pain and suffering.
Understanding Uber Laws And Requirements
The majority of ride-sharing businesses are regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), which classifies them as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). To legally operate, Uber must comply with licensing requirements, including a mandatory insurance policy. This policy will cover deaths, personal injuries, and property damage arising from rideshare operations.
TNCs may satisfy this requirement through:
- Insurance maintained by the driver.
- Insurance provided by Uber, which can include:
- Coverage that applies if the driver fails to maintain the required insurance.
- Coverage if the driver’s insurance is canceled or becomes inactive.
- A combination of driver-maintained and company-provided insurance.
Moreover, rideshare companies must maintain an insurance policy offering excess coverage. This provides protection to the company and the driver for a minimum of $200,000 per incident. The coverage addresses liabilities stemming from a driver’s use of a vehicle in association with the company’s online application or platform. When navigating the complexities of rideshare accidents, legal counsel can help clarify the laws and insurance policies that apply to your rideshare accident, helping you make informed decisions.
As the primary regulator, the CPUC could also require the TNCs to submit the following records:
- Reports about driver training programs.
- Accessibility plans.
- Strategies to prevent discrimination against disabled communities.
- Annual updates on accessibility plans.
Along with regulatory requirements, TNCs are also mandated to file reports about accessible vehicles, service by ZIP code, problems with drivers, hours logged by drivers, miles logged by drivers, and an annual list of drivers completing their training courses.
TNCs are further required to check that their drivers do not have any records of:
- Having more than three demerit points in the preceding three years.
- Major violations (including convictions for hit-and-run, reckless driving, or driving with a suspended license) in the preceding three years.
- Driving under the influence (DUI) convictions within the past seven years.
The DMV has an advanced program called Employer Pull Notice (EPN) that can notify a company whenever a driver’s record has any new convictions, accidents, failures to appear, driver’s license suspensions or revocations, or other actions taken against a driving privilege.
Laws And Regulations That Protect Passengers
California has implemented multiple laws and regulations to protect the safety and rights of Uber passengers. The CPUC oversees these measures, which include:
- Rideshare drivers must display Uber decals on both the front and rear passenger-side windshields when active on the app.
- As per Public Utilities Code 5445.2, a background check is mandatory for all rideshare drivers.
- The CPUC dictates that all drivers must undergo a vehicle inspection every 12 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The 50,000-mile mark includes miles driven while not logged into the rideshare app.
Laws And Regulations That Protect Drivers
Safety is also a priority for drivers. Consequently, many are opting to equip their vehicles with dashboard cameras. While there aren’t specific laws or regulations currently preventing drivers from installing these cameras for their protection in case of potential crimes or liability disputes, they might need to inform passengers about the recording device upon entering the vehicle, based on local rules.
Furthermore, drivers can cancel rides if they perceive potential risks for passengers. For instance, both Lyft and Uber guide their drivers to deny rides to passengers carrying infants if they lack the appropriate child car seats.
Hurt in an Uber Accident?
Types And Causes Of Uber Accidents
Studies conducted both domestically and internationally have stated that human factors account for over 90% of traffic accidents. One common reason for this is that drivers may overestimate their driving abilities and underestimate the dangers on the road. Some of these risky behaviors include:
- Distracted Driving — When drivers are texting, using GPS, talking on the phone, or having conversations with passengers, their attention is taken away from the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Intoxicated Driving — Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and drugs often experience impaired judgment and reaction time. This can be especially dangerous when responding to sudden stops, changing traffic signals, or pedestrians crossing intersections.
- Drowsy Driving — Uber drivers who don’t get enough rest may struggle to stay focused on the road, misjudge distances, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Reckless Driving — When drivers engage in risky driving behaviors like excessive speeding, careless lane changes, or ignoring traffic signals, they put everyone on the road at risk. Such behaviors can lead to high-speed crashes or multi-car pileups.
- Inexperience — Less experienced drivers may lack the skills to make safe driving decisions, which can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
- Poor Road Conditions — Potholes and obstacles on the road can cause sudden jolts, while heavy rains create slippery roads, increasing the risk of losing control of their vehicles.
Understanding these common causes can help clarify the factors involved in your accident and the parties potentially responsible for your injuries. Our Uber injury lawyers in Sacramento will investigate the details of your case, gather evidence related to these factors, and work to establish how they contributed to the accident. This approach can help build a claim that addresses multiple aspects of liability.
Common Injuries In An Uber Accident
Uber accident victims may sustain injuries ranging from mild to life-altering. Some of these include:
- Broken Bones — Minor fractures need a splint, cast, or brace, while severe ones may require surgery. These injuries can limit mobility and affect a person’s ability to work or perform daily tasks.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries — Sudden impacts can cause violent movements of the head and neck, resulting in whiplash. This results in chronic pain and stiffness, often requiring medication management.
- Head and Brain Injuries — Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions, can impair cognitive functions, affecting memory, motor skills, and quality of life.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Partial or complete paralysis from spinal cord damage can significantly impair an individual’s capacity for independent living and necessitate ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries — Damage to organs such as the liver or spleen, or internal bleeding, can be fatal and usually necessitates immediate surgery and critical care.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — Sprains, strains, and muscle tears can cause notable pain and restrict movement for victims. Minor injuries can heal naturally with the RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) method. However, severe ones might require expensive physical rehabilitation.
If you sustain injuries in an Uber accident, our Sacramento attorneys can help you connect with qualified medical professionals to facilitate medical care and treatment. We will work closely with these professionals to evaluate the extent of your injuries and gather medical documentation to support your case.
Liable Parties In An Uber Accident In Sacramento
In accidents involving Uber or Lyft, it can be challenging to determine who is at fault or negligent. Because Uber drivers operate as independent contractors rather than employees, rideshare companies typically argue they are not liable for accidents caused by their drivers. This differs from common carrier or commercial trucking cases, where companies have direct control over their employees and can be held vicariously liable for their actions (meaning the company can be legally responsible for the actions of its employees while they are working).
In the case of Uber, since drivers are not classified as employees, the company generally is not responsible for driver negligence. However, rideshare companies could still be held liable in cases where it was proven that they failed to conduct a proper screening process on drivers responsible for the accidents.
It’s also important to recognize that some accidents involving Uber drivers may be caused by other parties. These can include other motorists, vehicle manufacturers, maintenance providers, or even government agencies and property owners if their negligence contributed to the crash.
Given this complexity, accident victims often benefit from consulting experienced Sacramento Uber accident lawyers. They can conduct thorough investigations to identify all potential sources of liability and build a case that accounts for the unique legal considerations in rideshare accidents.
Proving Negligence In Uber Accidents
To seek the compensation available for your case in Uber accidents, you must demonstrate negligence. These four essential elements must be generally established to pursue accountability from the responsible parties:
- Duty of Care — Under California law, Uber drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles with the utmost degree of care.
- Breach of Duty — The driver failed to meet this highest standard of care. Examples include speeding, distracted driving, or operating under the influence.
- Causation — Demonstrate that the driver’s reckless behavior directly caused the accident and your injuries.
- Damages — The accident led to your injuries and losses, including pain and suffering, lost income, and medical expenses.
Establishing negligence can be complicated, and legal counsel can help manage this process for you. Our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys gather evidence to support each element of negligence and build a case grounded in the facts. This foundation helps pursue fair compensation for your accident-related losses.
Uber’s Insurance Coverage
Unlike heavily regulated taxis, Ubers are not covered by strict rules and regulations, making accidents involving them more complicated. In fact, Uber does not provide any coverage if the driver is involved in an accident and is not logged into the Uber app. In this situation, the driver acts as a private person, and their driving is unrelated to their status as Uber’s independent contractor.
The CPUC requires different levels of automobile insurance depending on the specific period during which the accident took place. The three periods are:
- Period 1 — If the driver is logged onto the Uber app but has not yet accepted a ride request, Uber provides liability coverage if the driver’s insurance does not fully cover the claim amount. Coverage includes up to $50,000 per person injured, $100,000 for total injury liability per accident, and $25,000 for total property damage.
- Period 2 — Once the driver has accepted a trip and is driving to pick up that rider, liability increases to $1 million.
- Period 3 — If the rider is in the vehicle, liability coverage is up to $1 million, plus limited coverage for damage to the driver’s car and uninsured motorists’ coverage.
Following a crash, Uber’s insurance representative will investigate the accident to determine coverage eligibility under the rideshare company’s insurance policy. If the investigation satisfies the criteria for one of the periods, the respective coverage limit may take effect.
There are various laws regarding vehicle accidents across California. One law that comes to many accident victims’ minds is seat belt use. All passengers 16 years and older must wear a seat belt. If you were not wearing a seat belt during a collision, it could affect the assessment of your injuries and your compensation or court award. Our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys can help evaluate how seat belt use factors into your case and work to protect your rights throughout the claims process.
Available Compensation In Uber Accident Cases
If you are involved in an Uber accident, you can file a claim to pursue compensation for damage to your vehicle and any injuries you’ve sustained. You can also seek two types of damages: economic and non-economic.
Economic damages are your financial losses related to the accident. These are measurable expenses that can be proven with receipts, bills, or other documents. On the other hand, non-economic damages are harder to calculate because they cover intangible losses.
Some of the compensatory damages that you can file a case for include:
- Emergency medical expenses
- Hospital bills
- Therapy costs
- Vehicle repair costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of quality of life
Our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers can help document all your losses, identify damages available for your case, and pursue compensation under the law.
What To Do After An Uber Accident
If you are involved in an Uber accident, prioritize your safety. Check yourself for any injuries, and if you’re hurt, call 911 to get medical help and police assistance. After taking those steps, consider the following:
- Take note of the names, contact numbers, and insurance information of the people involved. This includes the Uber driver, other passengers, and other victims.
- Identify any possible witnesses to the accident and get their information, as their statements can be valuable in supporting your claim later on.
- Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Make a note of any other important information, such as the exact location of the accident, weather conditions, any hazards, and any other important details about the accident (such as if your Uber driver was driving recklessly).
- After treatment or receiving medical attention, consider reaching out for the legal services of a Sacramento Uber accident attorney. They can investigate the accident, explain your rights, and help pursue a claim for damages.
Our Sacramento attorneys understand the legal challenges Uber accident victims face. We have experience helping clients with complex legal claims. Arash Law is committed to providing dedicated representation for our clients.
Evidence Needed In An Uber Accident Case
During your initial consultation, our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys will discuss the evidence needed to support your claim. Some of these include:
- Videos and pictures from nearby security or traffic cameras.
- Documents like medical records and police reports.
- Record of the Uber trip.
- CCTV footage and cell phone records.
- Depositions of the experts and eyewitnesses.
- Driving history of all involved drivers.
This evidence may support a case that outlines fault and documents the nature and extent of your injuries. Our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers will use these crucial details to negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance provider or, if necessary, represent you in court.
Gomez v. PG Transportation (settled on 8/11/2023) – settlement involving a man who was struck by a car resulting in a mild traumatic brain injury as well as other orthopedic injuries.
– TINA ESHGHIEH
Time Limit For Filing Uber Accident Lawsuits
You generally have two years in California from the date of the Uber accident to file a personal injury claim. This is called the statute of limitations. You may lose the right to sue if the deadline has passed, even if the other driver was obviously at fault.
However, there are exceptions. For example, if your injury was not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations may begin from the date you discovered, or reasonably should have discovered, the injury. Claims involving government entities often have shorter deadlines, typically requiring a claim to be filed within six months. Additionally, if the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations is extended, usually allowing the claim to be filed within two years after the minor turns 18.
Seeking legal help promptly can help protect your rights, preserve evidence, and file the necessary paperwork within the required timeframe. Our Sacramento personal injury attorneys who handle Uber accident cases will guide you through the process, help you meet all deadlines, and advocate for your interests throughout the legal process.
What To Expect In An Uber Accident Lawsuit
If you decide to file a claim after an Uber accident, the process typically begins with gathering and submitting evidence to the relevant insurance providers. Your claim may involve Uber’s insurance policy, the driver’s personal insurance, or both, depending on the circumstances.
Once the claim is filed, the other party (or their insurer) will be notified and may respond with settlement offers or disputes. Many cases are resolved through negotiations or mediation without going to court, which can speed up compensation. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine liability and damages.
Having legal counsel throughout this process can be valuable. Our Uber accident attorney in Sacramento will advocate for your rights and work to help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do I Need An Uber Accident Lawyer?
Uber accident lawyers can help explain your rights, discuss applicable laws in simple terms, and give advicce about your legal options. They can assist you in seeking a fair settlement for your losses. In addition, handling the legal aspects on your own could lead to mistakes such as missing deadlines or being unaware of the available compensation that you can include in your claim.
You might ask, “How do I know if I need an Uber accident lawyer for my claim?” If you’re dealing with multiple insurance adjusters and Uber representatives, that’s when you might need one. Our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys can handle the legal matters, allowing you to focus on recovery. If Uber’s insurance doesn’t cover your losses, your lawyer can handle negotiations with the at-fault driver and their legal representatives to pursue an appropriate settlement.
How Much Is My Uber Accident Claim Worth?
The value of your Uber accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and the circumstances of the accident. You may be able to pursue compensation for your medical bills, property damage, lost pay, and even future wages if you can’t work because of your injuries.
Every case is unique, and an experienced attorney can help evaluate the full extent of your damages. Our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers can assess your situation and work diligently to help you pursue fair compensation for your losses.
How Long Will It Take To Receive My Uber Accident Settlement?
The timeline for receiving your Uber accident settlement varies. However, most cases are resolved without going to court, which typically makes the process faster and more cost-effective for all parties. However, more complex cases involving disputed liability or severe injuries may take longer to settle due to the intricacies of insurance claims and negotiations.
Working with Sacramento Uber accident attorneys can help streamline the process. We handle the paperwork and negotiations with the responsible parties on your behalf. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we manage the legal aspects of your case.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire An Uber Accident Attorney?
The cost of hiring an Uber accident attorney can vary depending on the fee arrangement. Some attorneys charge hourly fees, billing you for the time they spend working on your case. Others may use a sliding scale fee structure, where the cost adjusts based on your income or financial situation. Flat fees are another option, where you pay a fixed amount for specific legal services.
Many personal injury lawyers, including our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys at Arash Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t owe any attorney’s fees upfront unless compensation is obtained or a judgment is awarded by the court. However, it’s important to note that certain case-related expenses, like court filing fees or expert witness costs, may still apply.
What If The Uber Driver Was Not At Fault For The Accident?
Even if the Uber driver wasn’t responsible for the accident, you may still seek compensation from the party who is at fault. This might include the other driver involved, a vehicle manufacturer if a defect contributed to the crash, a property owner if unsafe conditions caused the accident, or a government entity responsible for maintaining the road.
Our Sacramento Uber accident attorney can help investigate the accident, identify all liable parties, and guide you on how to pursue compensation for your damages.
Contact Our Sacramento County Uber Accident Lawyers
If you sustained injuries or your loved one was killed in an Uber crash in Sacramento, a lawyer can help you understand the applicable rideshare laws and insurance policies. At Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., we have the resources and experience to handle rideshare cases. Our Uber accident attorney works to pursue compensation for your damages either at the negotiation table or in court, if necessary.
Aside from Uber accident cases, we also handle other incidents, including truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, hit-and-run cases, swimming pool incidents, and bicycle accidents. We also handle cases involving slip and fall, dog bites, brain injuries, and other accident injuries.
Our legal team also represents victims in Sacramento, including Elk Grove, Folsom, Citrus Heights, Rosemont, Vineyard, Florin, Fair Oaks, and Rancho Cordova. Furthermore, Arash Law also represents clients across California. Our offices in Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Riverside, San Diego, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, and San Jose are open for you. We can discuss your accident by calling (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation. You may also contact us online.
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