Sacramento Uber Accident Lawyers
Trusted Sacramento Uber Accident Lawyers Who Turn Victims Into Victors
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, know that our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers are here to help. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation today.
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 with the highest level of care.
Unfortunately, Uber drivers are also just as prone to unsafe driving behaviors as any other motorist. When accidents occur, victims may find themselves facing an uphill battle when trying to recover 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 all injured victims of Uber accidents. We will ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Why Hire Arash Law’s Sacramento Uber Accident Lawyers
Hiring our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers can help increase your chances of obtaining the maximum reparation for your case. Arash Law has a team of over 100 legal professionals dedicated to providing exceptional service and results.
Our attorneys have helped thousands of injured victims recover their financial losses. In fact, we’ve secured over half a billion in settlements and court awards for our clients. We’ve built a solid reputation in Sacramento and throughout California, and we’re committed to maintaining it by helping our clients get the justice they deserve.
While we work hard to settle cases outside of court, we’re always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. We understand how traumatic an Uber accident can be for you and your family. Our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys are here to take care of the legal side so you can focus on recovering. Contact us now to get legal advice free of charge.
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
What Sets Our Sacramento Uber Accident Lawyers Apart
Our experienced Sacramento Uber accident lawyers are committed to securing the best possible outcome for our clients. Here’s what truly sets us apart:
- Expertise In Rideshare Laws — Our lawyers are highly 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 ensure that we’re always prepared to handle the most complex aspects of your case.
- 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 reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to build a solid case.
- Client-Centered Approach — From the moment you contact us, we listen carefully to your story and offer personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation. We understand how challenging the aftermath of an Uber accident can be. Our goal is to ease that burden, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
- No Fees Unless We Win — We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. This ensures that all accident victims, regardless of their financial situation, have access to top-tier legal representation without the burden of upfront costs.
Hear from some of our clients who have experienced firsthand how our team goes above and beyond to deliver justice:
“Thank you! I appreciate your knowledge and expertise with my case. Your office was courtesy [sic] and always willing to help. You were extremely personable and attentive with my case and I thank you for achieving a great settlement.” – Deepa T.
“Arash Law has been in my corner and fighting for what I deserve ever since my accident. My lawyer explained the process step by step and always kept me updated on new information. I am definitely happy with my decision to choose Arash Law to represent me. They are so AWESOME!” – Isaac L.
How Our Uber Accident Attorneys Can Help
If you’ve been in an Uber accident, proving who’s at fault is key to getting the compensation you deserve. Our Sacramento injury law firm can handle all the legwork on your behalf. We will make sure all the important details are handled properly. Here’s how we can help:
- Gathering essential evidence to support your claim.
- Conducting a thorough accident investigation.
- Engaging in negotiations with all parties.
- Evaluating losses to ascertain the actual worth of your claim.
- Ensuring all deadlines and filing requirements are met.
- Filing your claim with the right court or insurance company.
- Demonstrating how your injuries have impacted your quality of life.
- Securing payment for your pain and suffering.
As one of California’s leading personal injury law firms, we always provide exceptional service and results. If you were riding in an Uber and a tragic accident happened, you have the right to seek full restitution. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
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.
TNCs may satisfy this requirement through:
- TNC insurance maintained by the driver;
- TNC insurance provided by Uber:
- If the driver fails to maintain the required TNC insurance.
- If the driver’s TNC insurance is canceled or is no longer active.
- A combination of driver-maintained and company-provided insurance.
Moreover, rideshare companies must maintain an insurance policy offering excess coverage. This should protect 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, it’s essential to have trusted legal counsel by your side. Our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers know the ropes and have a track record of making sure victims get the compensation they deserve.
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 towards 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 ensure 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 ensure 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 top 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 major reason for this is that drivers often think they are better at driving than they really are and tend to 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 rear-end collisions, side-swipes, or intersection accidents.
- Intoxicated Driving — Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and drugs experience impaired judgment and reaction time, especially when the vehicle in front of them brakes, traffic signals change, or pedestrians cross at 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 serious accidents.
- Reckless Driving — When drivers engage in risky driving behaviors like excessive speeding, aggressive 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, leading drivers to lose control of their vehicles.
It is imperative to know these causes because they can greatly influence the payment you may receive for your injuries. Our Uber injury lawyers in Sacramento will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your case to make sure that all contributing factors are considered.
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, leading to whiplash. This results in chronic pain and stiffness, often requiring medicine 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.
Your health and well-being are our top priorities. So, if you sustain injuries in an Uber accident, our Sacramento attorneys will make sure you have access to top-notch medical professionals. We will work closely with these experts to evaluate the extent of your injuries and gather essential medical evidence to support your case. Our goal is to build a strong foundation for your claim so you can focus on healing without added stress.
Liable Parties In An Uber Accident In Sacramento
In accidents involving Uber, it is not easy to determine who is at fault or negligent. Since Uber drivers are independent contractors, many TNCs claim they are not liable for the incidents. TNCs argue that Uber drivers are solely liable for any damage they cause while working as independent contractors.
Unlike in common carrier and commercial truck accident cases, vicarious liability in Uber and Lyft accidents is not always present. Drivers for common carriers are hired as employees to perform specific job duties. The companies have direct control and supervision over common drivers. Thus, vicarious liability always comes into play.
Since Uber drivers are considered independent contractors, the rules are quite different. Generally, rideshare companies are not liable for the accidents caused by their drivers as they are not employees. Nevertheless, 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.
There are also accidents in which the ridesharing drivers or companies are not at fault. Some accidents are caused by the carelessness of other drivers, auto parts manufacturers, or even maintenance providers. Government agencies and private property owners may also be held accountable if their negligence causes an accident.
The complex liability in ridesharing cases gives more reasons for accident victims to engage the services of Sacramento personal injury lawyers. Expert Uber accident attorneys can conduct independent investigations to determine the cause of the accident and identify all potentially liable parties.
Proving Negligence In Uber Accidents
To get the compensation you are entitled to in Uber accidents, you must demonstrate negligence. These four essential elements must be proven in order to hold the driver accountable:
- 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 — You must prove that the driver failed to meet this highest standard of care. Examples include speeding, distracted driving, or operating under the influence.
- Causation — You should prove 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.
Our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys will help you navigate this complex process and make sure that every detail is taken care of so you can concentrate on getting better. Allow us to support you and stand up for your rights during this trying time.
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.
An accident victim can expect Uber’s insurance representative to investigate the accident. The investigation aims 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 limits take effect.
There are various laws regarding vehicle accidents across California. One law that comes into many accident victims’ heads is seat belt use. All passengers 16 years and older must wear a seat belt. If you were not wearing a seat belt during the collision, it would impact the pain and damage you sustained. Despite this, our Sacramento attorneys, who help Uber accident victims, will work to minimize its impact on the compensation you are due.
Compensation You Can Recover In Uber Accident Cases
If you are involved in an Uber accident, you can file a claim to recover restitution for damage to your vehicle and any injuries you’ve sustained. You can 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 recover 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
Consult with one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California to make sure you get the full reimbursement. Our Uber accident lawyers in Sacramento will handle the legal process, fight for both economic and non-economic damages, and help you get the best outcome for your case.
What To Do After An Uber Accident
If you are an Uber accident victim, the first thing you should do is ensure your safety. Check yourself for any injuries, and if you’re hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical help and police assistance. After taking those steps, you should do 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 recovery or receiving medical attention, you should immediately secure the legal services of an experienced Sacramento Uber accident attorney at Arash Law to help you investigate the accident, help you understand your rights, and win your case.
Our Sacramento attorneys understand the legal challenges Uber accident victims face. We have experience defending clients and know the specific legal issues involved. Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., 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.
With this detailed collection of evidence, we can build a strong case to establish fault and prove the extent of your injuries. Our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers will use these crucial details to negotiate aggressively 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 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 lose the ability to sue if the deadline has passed, even if the other driver was obviously at fault.
In some cases, if the injury wasn’t discovered right away, the two-year countdown starts from the date the trauma was discovered. This can give you a little more time, but it’s best not to wait.
Hiring Arash Law right after the accident is the best way to protect your rights. Our Sacramento personal injury attorneys who handle Uber accident cases will guide you through the process, help you meet all deadlines, and fight to get you the best possible outcome.
What To Expect In An Uber Accident Lawsuit
Here’s what you can expect if you need to file a claim after an Uber accident. First, our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers will help you get insurance to pay for your injuries. This could be through Uber’s insurance policy or the driver who caused the accident.
After filing a claim, the defendant’s side will be notified. During this period, settlement negotiations usually begin. Some cases are resolved out of court, which speeds up the process of receiving compensation. Even so, if you can’t settle, your case will move to trial, where the court will decide the outcome.
Having skilled legal representation is paramount during this time. Our team will navigate the legal landscape and will fight for your rights throughout the process. We will work tirelessly to ensure you get the highest financial recovery for your injuries and losses.
Uber Accident Statistics
Uber’s 2021 to 2022 Safety Reports state that 99.9998% of Uber trips end without any accidents. However, this still leaves a small fraction — 0.0002% — that accounts for serious safety incidents.
During this period, Uber received reports of 153 motor vehicle fatalities. This is much lower than the national average. The majority of these Uber-related fatalities involved risky driving practices, including:
- Alcohol-Impaired Driving — Other drivers caused 33% of fatalities.
- Speeding — 39% of deaths were caused by 93% third-party drivers and 7% by Uber drivers.
- Wrong-Way Driving — Third-party drivers caused 13% of fatalities.
Our Sacramento Uber accident lawyers can help if you or someone you care about was hurt in a collision with Uber. We’ll make sure the responsible parties are held liable and work to get you the highest amount possible. Fill out our “Do I have A Case?” form to start your journey towards justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do I Need An Uber Accident Lawyer?
Lawyers who specialize in Uber accidents can help you fight for the monetary compensation you rightfully deserve. If you try to handle the legal side by yourself, you might make mistakes like missing due dates or not knowing how much money you’re really owed.
You might ask, “How do I know if I need an Uber accident lawyer for my claim?” The moment you deal with multiple insurance adjusters and Uber representatives, that’s when you need one. Our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys will take all the stress off your shoulders. If Uber’s insurance doesn’t fully cover your losses, your lawyer will talk to the at-fault driver and their legal representation to obtain a 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 are entitled to full compensation for the harm that the other party’s negligence caused, including 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 are here to assess your situation and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Here are some examples of rideshare cases we’ve won:
- $1,550,000 — Our client sustained spinal and wrist injuries in a motorcycle vs. rideshare company accident. This sets a record as the largest settlement in Tulare County in 2021.
- $1,100,000 — Our client had a very rare medical condition due to a low-speed rideshare accident. The defendants ultimately agreed to settle the case before trial after more than two years of intense litigation.
- $1,125,000 — Our client, who lives in Colorado, sustained a lower back injury in a rideshare accident. Our client’s location creates litigation challenges, yet we have secured financial recovery.
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 experienced Sacramento Uber accident attorneys can significantly streamline the process. We will handle the paperwork, negotiations, and legal complexities to help you secure a fair settlement. Our team ensures your claim is efficiently managed so you can focus on recovery.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire An Uber Accident Attorney?
You don’t have to pay anything upfront when you choose our Sacramento Uber accident attorneys because we work on a contingency fee basis. You only pay us if we win your case. We will only take a percentage of the settlement we recover for you.
What If The Uber Driver Was Not At Fault For The Accident?
Even if the Uber driver wasn’t at fault, you can still sue the other driver or their insurance company for money. Other parties might also share liability, including car manufacturers, private property owners, or government entities. Our Sacramento Uber accident attorney can assist in determining fault and offer advice on how to maximize your damages.
Contact The Best Uber Accident Lawyers In Sacramento County
When you sustained serious injuries or your loved one was killed in an Uber crash in Sacramento, you have to hire accident lawyers who fully understand the rideshare laws and applicable insurance policies. At Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., we are equipped with experience and knowledge regarding personal injuries.
Our attorneys are diligent litigators and negotiators who can protect your rights. With over $500 Million recovered in compensation and awards, our personal injury lawyers have a 99% success rate in securing favorable outcomes for our clients.
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. Our expertise extends to slip and fall, dog bites, brain injuries, and other accident injuries.
Our legal team can come to your aid anywhere in Sacramento, including Elk Grove, Folsom, Citrus Heights, Rosemont, Vineyard, Florin, Fair Oaks, and Rancho Cordova. Arash Law also services areas all over California. Our offices in Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Riverside, San Diego, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, and San Jose are open for you. We can have a detailed discussion about your accidents by calling for a free consultation at (888) 488-1391, or you can contact us online.
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