San Francisco Uber Accident Lawyers
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Our San Francisco Uber Accident Lawyers Offer Clear Legal Support For Complex Times
Uber has revolutionized the way we travel in San Francisco, making it easier to get around with just a few taps on your phone. But what happens if a ride takes an unexpected turn and you get injured in an accident? Our San Francisco Uber accident lawyers can help you seek compensation and assist you with your case. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
The ease and efficiency of ridesharing have made it extremely popular in the last decade. With Uber headquartered in San Francisco, it’s no wonder that the service is most popular in the city. Although easy and relatively inexpensive, ridesharing services have been attributed to an increase in traffic and a higher number of cars on the road.
Where there’s more traffic, there’s likely to be more car accidents. Since its inception, Uber has caused users to be involved in thousands of accidents through no fault of their own, many of which have occurred in California. In addition to riders, occupants of other vehicles and pedestrians can be victims of ridesharing accidents.
Our firm’s experienced personal injury attorneys know how complex Uber accident cases can be. Several factors, like your role in the crash, the other parties involved, and the circumstances of where and how the accident happened, may make it difficult to pursue compensation on your own. It becomes challenging to determine liability in rideshare accidents involving multiple parties or potential fault.
Our San Francisco Uber accident lawyers understand the complexity involved in a ridesharing accident case. If you or a loved one was injured in an Uber accident, we can advocate for your rights and assist in seeking compensation for your losses.
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 Hire Our San Francisco Uber Accident Lawyers
Our experienced San Francisco accident lawyers have handled a wide range of injury cases across California for decades, including those involving Uber accidents. We understand how to deal with involved parties and can help you navigate the legal complexities of such cases.
To help you pursue compensation, we can assist you with the following:
- Evaluating Fault — We’ll investigate the accident to identify the potentially liable party, whether it’s the Uber driver, another motorist, or the rideshare company itself.
- Assessing Your Claim — We will evaluate the losses included in your claim and review all relevant insurance policies to determine the appropriate course of action.
- Building Your Case — Our team will gather evidence and meticulously document your injuries to present your case for a potential settlement.
- Negotiating With Other Parties — Insurance companies often undervalue claims. Our skilled lawyers can manage negotiations with insurers and also help you avoid making any statements that could impact your claim.
- Filing a Lawsuit — If a fair settlement isn’t reached, our litigation attorneys are prepared to take your case to court.
Contact our skilled car accident lawyers for a free initial consultation. We’ll listen attentively to your story, answer any questions you may have, and discuss the specifics of your case in a confidential setting.
How Can Our Uber Accident Attorneys Help Protect Injured Victims?
Insurance companies, with their legal teams, can be intimidating. These companies have resources and legal teams, but you don’t have to confront them alone. Our Uber accident lawyers are well-versed in handling claims and dealing with these parties.
The insurance company might misinterpret your words, which may lead to disputes or denials. We’re prepared to counter these possible arguments with evidence and legal experience. They might also offer a quick, seemingly convenient settlement that falls far below the actual value of your potential claim. Our team can assess your claim to help you determine what a fair settlement offer would be.
We’ll handle all communications and negotiations with the other parties, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Our San Francisco Uber accident attorneys will work to protect your case and pursue compensation for you.
Common Causes Of Uber Accidents
Like any other driver, those working for Uber may make mistakes that result in vehicle accidents. Other times, Uber’s lack of a sufficient vetting process means hiring drivers who do not make good decisions and even go as far as assaulting passengers. Additionally, Uber has allowed drivers who have caused incidents to continue driving and transporting passengers.
In 2016, an Uber driver in Seminole County was found guilty of running a red light. The driver crashed into a law enforcement officer’s car upon running the red light, and the rider was killed.
Moreover, an Uber driver in North Carolina was charged with sexually assaulting his rider. In 2015, an Uber driver killed a 27-year-old pedestrian in New York City, and in 2014, an Uber driver in San Francisco killed a young girl in a crosswalk after he failed to yield.
Our San Francisco lawyers for Uber accidents can manage cases that arise from different contributing factors. Here are some common causes of these incidents:
- Aggressive or Reckless Driving — Some Uber drivers may engage in aggressive maneuvers like tailgating, speeding, and weaving through traffic to make up for lost time or meet passenger demands. Even if it doesn’t escalate into a full-blown road rage, such reckless driving puts everyone on the road at risk.
- Drowsy or Fatigued Driving — The temptation to work longer hours to maximize earnings can lead to fatigue, especially when driving late at night. A sleepy driver reacts much more slowly to what’s happening on the road. They take longer to hit the brakes or respond to unexpected situations, which can potentially cause a crash.
- Distracted Driving — Distractions while driving, such as eating, talking to passengers, and using the phone to navigate apps or maps, take the driver’s attention away from the road. Distracted driving can lead to swerving, drifting out of the lane, getting into a side-impact incident, or even running off the road. Even a glance away from the road can mean the difference between safely avoiding an obstacle and causing a collision.
- Driving Under the Influence — Drugs and alcohol intake significantly impair brain function. Reaction times slow down dramatically under the influence of these substances, making it difficult to respond quickly to sudden hazards or avoid a collision. Uber has a strict zero-tolerance policy against drugged or drunk driving. Our DUI accident lawyers, who are also experienced with Uber crash cases, can provide legal support to victims of such incidents.
Complicated Roadways — Confusing roads with sharp turns, improper signage, and heavy traffic make it harder for drivers to avoid mistakes that can cause motor vehicle accidents, such as intersection collisions and car pile-ups. Lombard Street, for instance, has a series of sharp hairpin turns that require slow and careful navigation. Impatient drivers can easily misjudge a turn, causing an accident.
Another example is the Central Freeway. This short highway connects US 101 and Interstate 80 with the Hayes Valley area, featuring several confusing lane changes and merges. Traffic congestion and a mix of slow and fast-moving vehicles can confuse drivers who are unfamiliar with the layout, increasing the risk of freeway accidents.
- Wrong-Way Driving — San Francisco has many one-way streets, forcing many drivers to take alternate, much longer routes. Drivers unfamiliar with the area may accidentally make a wrong turn down a one-way street, potentially leading to head-on collisions.
Weather Conditions — SF is known for its frequent fog, which typically starts in June and lasts through August. Foggy streets mean reduced visibility, especially in the early mornings and evenings. These poor conditions can lead to rear-end accidents.
Rain isn’t as frequent in the area, but when it does occur after a long dry spell, the roads get slippery due to the buildup of oils and debris on the surface. Rain-related accidents may occur when drivers lose traction or have difficulty braking.
San Francisco also frequently experiences strong winds, which could cause traffic accidents by pushing cars off course or bringing large debris onto the road.
- Dangerous Road Conditions — Potholes, hazardous debris, and damaged roads can all contribute to car accidents involving Uber. Drivers might overcorrect or lose control of their vehicles when faced with these dangerous road conditions, especially when they’re unexpected.
- Other Causes — Additionally, our Uber accident lawyers in San Francisco can assist victims in pursuing compensation for Uber-related injuries and emotional distress resulting from:
- Sexual assault
- Battery and physical violence
- Robbery
- Threats
- Harassment and stalking
Injuries Typically Sustained After An Uber Accident
In addition to fatalities, common injuries that occur as a result of ridesharing accidents include:
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Cuts, scrapes, bruises, and internal bleeding
- Broken bones or ribs
- Whiplash
- Neck and spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Organ damage
- Loss of limbs, fingers, and toes
- Post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, mood disorders, and other mental health issues
If you’ve sustained any of these bodily injuries, don’t underestimate their financial and emotional impact. Our Uber accident lawyers in San Francisco can help you pursue compensation to cover your medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses.
We can also help you file a wrongful death claim if a family member has died in an Uber accident. Our attorneys can assist you in filing the claim and seeking compensation for burial expenses and emotional distress.
What To Do After An Uber Accident In San Francisco?
If you’ve been injured in a ridesharing accident, it is important to take certain practical steps to get treatment, preserve evidence, and protect your rights. These are general recommendations and not legal advice:
- First, check yourself and the others involved in the accident for injuries. Move to a safe location, but stay at the scene as much as possible.
- Contact emergency services. Ensure law enforcement officers get an accurate report from you. Receive medical assistance and go to the hospital if you are injured.
- If you’re a passenger, obtain proof of your ride by taking a screenshot of your receipt or contacting Uber to request a copy of the receipt. Get contact information from the driver, others involved in the accident, and any witnesses willing to make a statement. Additionally, get the insurance information of the Uber driver and any other drivers involved in the accident.
- Keep a written log of everything you remember. Additionally, keep a log of all medical diagnoses, treatments, and prescriptions you receive for your injury resulting from the accident.
- Do not speak with insurance companies or Uber representatives. Insurance companies and Uber are large businesses that seek to avoid large payouts. Keep any information you give limited to your basic contact information and what is already in the official police report.
- Avoid posting about your Uber accident or injuries on social media. Insurance companies can use your posts against you. Even a harmless update might be misconstrued as downplaying your injuries or admitting fault.
- Talk to a San Francisco lawyer who handles Uber accident claims. We’ll handle the legal legwork while you focus on healing. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Who Is Legally Liable For An Uber Accident In San Francisco, CA?
In California, the driver responsible for causing a car accident may be liable for paying damages resulting from that accident. However, when a driver works for a company like Uber, it can be difficult to determine who should be liable.
Companies like Uber have policies that cover riders injured in an accident during their ride. An issue may arise, however, where someone who is not a rider, such as a pedestrian, is injured. Regardless, Uber and similar companies may dispute liability under certain circumstances.
In these cases, the injured riders, pedestrians, or motorists can explore their available legal options. Our experienced San Francisco Uber accident lawyers can determine potential sources of liability and explain which parties you may pursue for compensation.
Here are some Uber accident scenarios and the potentially liable parties:
You Are A Motorist Struck By An Uber
An Uber driver might cause an accident that injures another driver. For example, you could be cruising down the road when a speeding Uber swerves into your lane, causing a head-on collision. In this case, the Uber driver may be liable.
You Are A Pedestrian Or Cyclist Struck By An Uber
In most cases, the Uber driver may be liable. They have a duty of care to pedestrians and other road users. If their actions, like speeding or distracted driving, caused the accident, they’ll most likely be responsible for the victim’s injuries.
You Are An Uber Driver Struck By Another Vehicle
Even Uber drivers can get injured in an accident. If another vehicle struck you and the collision wasn’t your fault or the result of your negligence, you may have a claim against the other driver.
You Are An Uber Passenger Struck By Another Vehicle
If you’re riding in an Uber car that got hit by another vehicle, there could be multiple potentially liable parties: the other driver or the Uber driver. A lawyer can investigate and determine who may be responsible for your injuries.
If your Uber accident falls under any of these scenarios, you may have a valid claim. Reach out to our Uber accident lawyers in San Francisco to understand your legal options.
What Liability Insurance Do Rideshare Companies Like Uber Carry?
California requires Uber, Lyft, and other transportation network companies (TNCs) to carry liability insurance coverage for their drivers. These policies have up to $1 million in available coverage, but that coverage isn’t available in every instance. When a driver is conducting a trip with a rider, the driver is covered by up to $1 million in liability insurance.
However, when drivers are conducting a trip without a rider but still working as “drivers” for the company (i.e., going to pick up a rider), they have liability coverage ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 for accidents they cause.
Here’s a breakdown of the different insurance periods:
Period 0 – App Is Off
If the Uber driver is logged out of the app and using their own car personally when an accident occurs, their own car insurance policy applies. California law requires all drivers to carry personal auto insurance with the following minimum coverage:
- $15,000 per accident for property damage.
- $30,000 per person for bodily injury.
- $60,000 per accident for bodily injury.
Period 1 – Logged In & Waiting For A Passenger
Once the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, Uber’s contingent comprehensive and collision coverage kicks in. Uber provides the following third-party liability coverage when a rideshare driver is liable:
- $25,000 for property damage
- $50,000 per person
- $100,000 per accident
Period 2 – On The Way To Pick Up A Passenger
Uber’s primary liability insurance takes over from the moment the driver accepts a ride request and heads toward the passenger’s pickup location. It provides $1 million in third-party liability coverage plus $1 million for underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage.
Period 3 – With A Passenger In The Vehicle
This period also provides the same coverage as Period 2, but it now extends to passengers as well.
Regardless of the coverage, it is common for an at-fault party to attempt to avoid liability for certain reasons. Additionally, Uber may argue that it is not liable if no passenger is present. A San Francisco lawyer experienced in Uber accident cases can help establish liability in these instances.
Why Are Uber Accident Claims More Complex Than Other Vehicle Accident Claims?
Regular car accidents usually involve two drivers and their insurance companies. In an Uber accident, there can be several parties, including the driver, passenger(s), Uber itself, and potentially other drivers or pedestrians. Each party may have separate insurance policies, making it tricky to determine who’s responsible and which insurance applies.
Uber also classifies drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This can impact liability. Depending on the circumstances of the case, the rideshare company may not always be liable for accidents involving its drivers.
Damages You May Seek Compensation For Following An Uber Accident
When you or a loved one is involved in an Uber accident at the fault of the driver, several different types of damages may apply to your claim, including:
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of income and wages, including future income or lost earning capacity due to permanent limitations from your injuries.
- Medical expenses, including emergency room visits, hospital bills, doctor visits and consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and home healthcare.
- Property damage, including the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property (e.g., a phone or laptop) that got damaged during the accident.
- Loss of consortium.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Physical scarring, disfigurement, or permanent disability.
- Potential legal fees.
- Possible punitive damages.
Our Uber accident lawyers in San Francisco can take into account all of your losses when filing your claim. They can consider not just the immediate damages but also the long-term impact of the accident on your life.
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
Uber Eats Accident Compensation
The Uber Eats driver’s personal auto insurance covers them during delivery trips. Uber also provides supplemental coverage of up to $1 million. If the driver’s action or inaction causes an accident and injures you, their insurance could cover your losses.
However, seeking compensation can be challenging. Insurance companies conduct investigations to validate claims. If there is insufficient evidence or inadequate documentation, they may have reason to dispute the claim. Our Uber accident lawyers can manage the details of your claim if you’re harmed in an accident involving the company’s food delivery driver.
What You Need To Know About Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies have specific processes in place to verify claims and settle cases. Their process may include the following:
- They may request a recorded statement shortly after the accident.
- They might try to shift the fault or downplay the severity of your injuries if there is evidence to support these types of assessments.
- They might discourage legal representation, claiming it’s unnecessary or expensive. San Francisco Uber accident lawyers can advocate for your rights and represent you in court if it is a viable option for your case.
- They might offer a quick settlement. Remember, accepting a settlement is final. You can’t seek further compensation later.
What Should I Do If The Insurance Company Calls Me?
Your insurance company or that of the other driver may contact you after your accident. They may ask you to provide a statement, undergo a medical examination, or sign a medical release form. Before giving a statement or signing any documents, consider consulting an Uber accident lawyer.
You can provide the insurance company with basic details, such as your name, the date, time, and location of the accident, the names and insurance details of the other driver(s) involved, and the make and model of the vehicles.
Avoid giving any other information or even your opinion. Some topics are best left for discussion with your lawyer, such as:
- What caused the accident?
- Who caused the accident?
- What were you doing before the accident?
- What kind of injuries do you have?
- Do you have any injuries at all?
How Long Do You Have To Bring An Uber Car Accident Injury Claim?
Because an Uber car accident injury falls under personal injury, the same statute of limitations applies to other injuries resulting from negligence. California law states that individuals injured in an Uber car accident generally have two years from the date of the accident that caused the injury to file a claim. Any attempt to file a claim against Uber past those two years will likely be barred, and you will not be able to pursue compensation.
Other exceptions to the deadline may apply to some Uber accidents. For example, if a minor is injured, the time limit will only start once they turn 18. Nevertheless, their parent or legal guardian can file a case on their behalf until then.
Because of this limitation, it is advisable to contact an Uber accident lawyer in San Francisco after your accident. They can assist you in understanding the deadline for your case and help you with the filing process.
Uber Accident Statistics
There were approximately 0.62 motor vehicle fatalities per 100 million Uber miles traveled in 2019-2020, representing a 7% increase from the 2017-2018 rate (0.58).
In 2020, 42 people were killed in Uber-related accidents. Of these fatalities, there were ten Uber riders, four Uber drivers, two Uber drivers/riders outside the vehicle, nine third-party drivers, two third-party passengers, six motorcyclists, eight pedestrians, and one cyclist or scooter rider.
Researchers have found that the intensity of rideshare use in cities was linked to an increase in traffic- and car-related fatalities. Additionally, the annual cost of the rise in rideshare-related deaths is $9.5 billion. Our Uber accident lawyers are well-versed in the risks and consequences, and they have dedicated their skills to advocating for victims’ rights to pursue just compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Passenger Sue An Uber Driver?
Yes. If your Uber driver caused the accident and you sustained injuries, your first step is typically to file a claim against their auto insurance company. However, in some cases, the insurance company’s offer may not be enough to cover your losses. Sometimes, insurance may even dispute coverage. In such cases, our San Francisco lawyers for Uber accident cases can consider filing a lawsuit against the driver and represent you in court.
How Much Can An Uber Passenger Or Victim Claim?
There’s no fixed amount to the compensation an injured victim can pursue. The settlement may range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the specific losses. The amount of compensation you may be eligible for can vary depending on the severity of your injuries, the insurance coverage period, who’s at fault, and so many other factors. An Uber injury lawyer can help assess the types of damages you may be able to seek.
How Do I Receive Compensation For An Uber Accident?
To seek compensation for your losses from an Uber accident, you need to assess the parties involved, who is potentially liable, and which insurance policies apply. Generally, Uber provides up to $1 million in supplemental coverage. They also provide coverage in situations where a driver is uninsured or underinsured. However, many factors will affect how much you can actually pursue for an Uber accident, which is why hiring the right San Francisco lawyer can be helpful. They can review your case and help you understand whether you have a valid claim.
Who Pays For An Uber Accident In California?
Whoever caused or contributed to the Uber accident is typically responsible for compensating those injured. In an Uber accident, the liable party could be the driver, another motorist, Uber itself, car mechanics, the passenger, or other third parties.
What Is An Uber Accident Settlement?
A settlement refers to financial compensation awarded to the victim of an accident who sustained losses or damages. This compensation is reached through an agreement between the victim and the responsible party, often the driver’s insurer or Uber’s third-party liability insurance provider.
The process involves both sides investigating and evaluating the evidence to determine a fair value for the case. Once agreed upon, the settlement becomes a legally binding contract. If an agreement cannot be reached, the victim’s Uber accident attorney can take the case to court.
What Should I Bring To The Initial Consultation With A San Francisco Uber Accident Attorney?
Considering hiring a San Francisco lawyer after getting injured in an Uber accident? A free initial consultation can help you understand your options. To make the most of this meeting, bring some key documents that will help the lawyer assess your case. Here’s what you need to prepare for:
- Insurance information.
- The other party’s information, including their contact information, insurance details, and statements made.
- Photos or videos of the accident scene.
- Witness statements, including contact information.
- Invoices or receipts for medical bills, repairs, or anything accident-related that you owe or have already paid for.
- Medical records.
- Mental health records, especially if the accident caused you emotional harm.
- A copy of the police report, which you can request online from the San Francisco Police Department.
Consult Our Experienced Uber Accident Lawyers In San Francisco
An Uber car accident can result in serious injuries, high medical expenses, and a loss of income. Filing a claim often involves gathering crucial pieces of evidence. These cases are extremely complex, and experienced San Francisco Uber accident lawyers can help you throughout the legal process.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident involving Uber, contact the San Francisco Uber car accident lawyers at Arash Law. With decades of combined experience, our San Francisco personal injury lawyers can advocate for your rights and interests. Your initial consultation is free, and you owe nothing unless we win for you. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we are able to obtain compensation on your behalf. Certain fees related to your case may still apply regardless of the result. Our attorneys can clarify our fee agreement with you during your consultation.
We also handle different cases of personal injury, from truck collisions involving delivery vehicles and semi trucks, slip and fall accidents, motorcycle crashes, hit and run, and even dog bite incidents. Call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free initial consultation.
We serve victims residing in San Francisco and other areas in California, including Alameda, Oakland, Emeryville, Tiburon, Berkeley, San Bruno, Hillsborough, El Granada, Redwood City, El Cerrito, and Richmond.
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