San Francisco Uber Accident Lawyers
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Our San Francisco Uber Accident Lawyers Will Help You Get Compensation For Your Injuries
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 have helped injured victims and their families obtain compensation for their damages. Contact us today 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 acclaimed firm’s experienced personal injury attorneys know how complex Uber accident cases can be. Several factors, including whether you were the rider or in another vehicle, the other parties involved, and where and how the accident occurred, may make it difficult to get just compensation on your own. It becomes difficult to pinpoint liability in rideshare accidents where multiple people are involved or might be at 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, rest assured that we will fight for your rights and ensure you’re fairly compensated 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 a proven track record of winning personal injury cases, including Uber accidents. We’ve helped thousands of victims obtain justice and claim the monetary reparation that they’re owed.
To help you obtain compensation, we will assist you with the following:
- Determining Fault—We’ll investigate the accident to identify the liable party, whether it’s the Uber driver, another motorist, or the rideshare company itself.
- Maximizing Your Claim—We’ll calculate the full value of your claim and consider all applicable insurance policies.
- Building A Strong Case—Our team will gather evidence and meticulously document your injuries to present a compelling case for the maximum settlement.
- Negotiating With Other Parties—Insurance companies often undervalue claims. Our skilled lawyers will fight fiercely to secure a fair amount that reflects the full impact of your losses. In fact, we’ve won over $500 Million in compensation for our clients. Check out our client testimonials to see how we’ve assisted them.
- Filing A Lawsuit—If a fair settlement isn’t reached, our litigation attorneys are prepared to take your case to court.
Contact our award-winning car accident lawyers today for a free 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 formidable legal teams, can be intimidating. They may seem like unbeatable giants, but you don’t have to face them alone. Our Uber accident lawyers are well-versed in handling claims and dealing with their unfair tactics.
The insurance company might twist your words to downplay your injuries or deny your claim entirely. We’re prepared to counter these arguments with strong evidence and legal expertise. They might also offer a quick, seemingly convenient settlement that falls far below the actual value of your claim, hoping you’ll be eager to move on. Our team will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve based on the extent of all your damages.
We’ll handle all the communications and negotiations with the other parties so that they don’t get the chance to harass or manipulate you. Our San Francisco Uber accident attorneys will do what it takes to protect your case and achieve your goals.
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.
Here are some of the most common contributing factors that our San Francisco lawyers for Uber accident cases frequently see:
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.
The temptation to work longer hours to maximize earnings can lead to fatigue, especially when driving late at night. A drowsy driver reacts much slower to what's happening on the road. They take longer to hit the brake or react to unexpected situations, potentially causing a crash.
Distractions while driving, like eating or talking to passengers and using the phone to navigate the app 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-swipe incident, or even running off-road. Even a glance away from the road can mean the difference between safely avoiding an obstacle and causing a collision.
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 also specialize in Uber crashes, fight not only for injured victims’ rights but also against such a brazen disregard for other people’s well-being.
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 and cause an accident.
Another example is the Central Freeway. This short highway connects US 101 and Interstate 80 with the Hayes Valley area and has 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.
San Francisco has many one-way streets, forcing many drivers to take alternate, much longer routes. Drivers who are unfamiliar with the area might accidentally make a wrong turn down a one-way street, leading to head-on collisions.
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.
Potholes, hazardous debris, and damaged roads could all cause 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.
Additionally, our Uber accident lawyers in San Francisco have assisted victims recover 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 secure fair 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 will help you achieve justice and recover financial reparation 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 several steps in order to get treatment, preserve evidence, and get the maximum amount of recovery to which you are entitled. Our good Uber accident lawyers recommend the following steps:
- First, check yourself and the others involved in the accident for injuries. Move to a safe location but do not leave the scene.
- 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, get proof of your ride by getting a screenshot of your receipt or contacting Uber to receive 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 talk to insurance companies or representatives from Uber. 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 specializing in 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 a car accident is held liable for paying damages resulting from that accident. However, when the driver is working for a company like Uber, it can be difficult to determine who should be held 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 will attempt to shift the blame so that the driver’s individual policy will cover the accident.
In these cases, the injured riders, pedestrians, or motorists may receive less compensation due to the lower limits of the driver’s personal insurance policy. Our knowledgeable and experienced San Francisco Uber accident lawyers can increase your chances of a fair settlement, even if the ridesharing company contests liability.
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 the driver of other vehicles. 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 could be held liable.
You Are A Pedestrian Or Cyclist Struck By An Uber
In most cases, the Uber driver will be held 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 might have a claim against the other driver.
You Are An Uber Passenger Struck By Another Vehicle
If you’re riding an Uber car that got hit by another vehicle, there could be multiple liable parties: the other driver or the Uber driver. You’ll need a lawyer to investigate and determine who’s responsible for compensating you.
If your Uber accident falls under any of these scenarios, you might have a valid claim. Reach out to the best Uber accident lawyers San Francisco residents turn to.
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 diver is conducting a trip with a rider, the driver has up to $1 million in liability coverage.
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 – $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 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:
- $5,000 per accident for property damage
- $15,000 per person for bodily injury
- $30,000 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 Rider
Uber’s primary liability insurance takes over from the moment the driver accepts a ride request and heads toward the passenger’s pick-up 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.
Regardless of the coverage, it is common for Uber and other ridesharing companies to attempt to avoid liability by claiming that the accident was solely the fault of the driver or another person involved. Additionally, Uber may argue that they aren’t liable if no rider is present, as they did in the case of the Uber driver who failed to yield and struck a young pedestrian. A San Francisco lawyer specializing 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. The rideshare company isn’t always liable for accidents involving its drivers.
Damages You Can Recover Following An Uber Accident
When you or a loved one is involved in an Uber accident at the fault of the driver, you may be entitled to several different types of damages, 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 will take into account all of your losses when filing your claim. They’ll 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 steps in with supplemental coverage of up to $1 million. If the driver’s action or inaction causes an accident and injures you, their insurance should cover your losses.
However, obtaining compensation will not be easy. Insurance companies are notorious for trying to settle claims for the lowest possible amount. Our Uber accident lawyers can help you claim financial compensation 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 exist to turn a profit, and that often means minimizing payouts on injury claims. Here are some of the different tactics they’ll use:
- They may request a recorded statement shortly after the accident when you’re still shaken and unsure. Don’t rush into giving one.
- They might try to shift some fault to you or downplay the severity of your injuries. Admitting to either of these can reduce the amount of money you receive.
- They might discourage legal representation, claiming it’s unnecessary or expensive. Disregard this. Good San Francisco Uber accident lawyers protect your rights and fight for what you deserve.
- They might push for 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, submit to a medical exam, or sign a medical release. Before giving a statement or signing any documents, we highly recommend consulting an Uber accident lawyer.
You can provide the insurance company with basic details like 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 cars.
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 those injured in an Uber car accident will have two years from 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 recover any damages.
Because of this limitation, it is important to contact an Uber accident lawyer in San Francisco as soon as possible. Waiting too long can decrease the chances of a favorable result or bar your claim altogether.
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 increases in rideshare-related deaths is at $9.5 billion. Our Uber accident lawyers know the risk and consequences and have dedicated their skills and expertise in advocating for the victims’ rights and best interests.
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 your auto insurance company. However, in some cases, the insurance company’s offer may not be enough to cover your losses. Sometimes, insurance may even push the blame onto you. In such cases, our San Francisco lawyers for Uber accident cases can help you file a lawsuit against the driver to recover the full extent of your losses.
How Much Can An Uber Passenger Or Victim Claim?
There’s no fixed amount to the final compensation any injured victim can receive. The settlement may range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. The amount of compensation you can claim can significantly vary, depending on the severity of your injuries, the insurance coverage period, who’s at fault, and so many other factors.
What Is The Average Compensation For An Uber Accident Claim In San Francisco?
Unfortunately, many Uber accident settlements are confidential, so it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact number. To give you a rough idea, our team has won cases with settlements ranging from $415,000 to $1,250,000.
How Do I Receive Compensation For An Uber Accident?
To get compensated for an Uber accident, you need to assess the parties involved, who is 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 claim for an Uber accident, which is why hiring the right San Francisco lawyer is so crucial.
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 itself, and 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 a 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 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 The Best Uber Accident Lawyers San Francisco Trusts
An Uber car accident can result in serious injuries, high medical expenses, and a loss of income. Filing a claim and succeeding against large ridesharing companies like Uber requires a sound legal claim and sufficient evidence to support that claim. These cases are extremely complex and experienced San Francisco Uber accident lawyers are necessary to protect your interests and get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident involving Uber, contact the top-rated San Francisco Uber car accident lawyers at Arash Law, managed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq. With over three decades of experience, our San Francisco personal injury lawyers know how to preserve your rights and protect your interests. Your consultation is free, and you owe nothing unless we win for you. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid once we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
We also handle different cases of personal injury, from truck collisions involving delivery to semi trucks, slip and fall accidents, motorcycle crashes, hit and run, and even dog bite incidents. Call (888) 488-1391 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation today!
We offer our services 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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