Temecula Uber Accident Lawyers
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Experienced Temecula Uber Accident Lawyers Helping You Understand Your Legal Rights
After getting injured in an Uber accident in Temecula, California, caused by another party’s negligence, you may pursue compensation for your losses. However, the burden of proof relies on you, as you must establish the negligent party’s liability through a strong case with compelling evidence. The Temecula Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law offer legal services to help you seek fair compensation from the liable parties. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation, and let us help you pursue your damages.
Although Uber has an insurance policy in place, pursuing compensation from this may not be simple. The legal process can be very difficult, especially when dealing with a large, well-resourced company like Uber. It is common for insurance providers to conduct comprehensive investigations before making decisions on personal injury claims. Oftentimes, the settlement offer doesn’t reflect the extent of your losses. That’s why it’s important to have the help of a lawyer who is experienced in personal injury law.
Led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., the team of Temecula Uber accident attorneys at Arash Law has the extensive experience to assist with your case. We have been handling various injury cases, including rideshare accidents like Uber, across California for decades. Our legal team can help you negotiate with major insurance companies, such as those that work with Uber. Contact us to determine the viability of your case. The initial consultation is free!
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
What The Temecula Uber Accident Lawyers At Arash Law Can Do For You
Apart from burdening you with a mountain of medical bills, a serious Uber accident may leave you unemployed or disabled for the rest of your life. If you or a loved one suffers injuries after such an incident, you have the option to pursue compensation on your own. Perhaps you’re even unsure if you require legal representation. In truth, you would benefit greatly from getting one.
It’s hard to concentrate on the legal proceedings following a crash when you’re busy recovering from injuries. The Temecula Uber accident attorneys at Arash Law can handle your case so you can focus on your well-being. Choosing a lawyer with experience in helping victims seek fair compensation is important. While it might be preferable to settle your case and avoid the hassle of going to trial, you need someone who can provide legal representation both in and out of court.
In particular, your legal counsel can aid in the following:
- Investigate your case thoroughly to determine all liable parties, the actual extent of your damages, and all possible avenues for compensation.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and work to ensure your claim is evaluated fairly.
- Handle all related paperwork and provide guidance throughout the entire process to help you avoid costly mistakes that could impact your case.
- Preserve evidence to support your position and establish liability while preparing your case as if to present it in court if the negotiation goes south.
- Advocate for your rights while offering personalized case management focused on your goals.
Our Temecula Uber Accident Lawyers Handle Cases On A Contingency-Fee Basis
Traffic collisions are almost always accompanied by medical expenses and financial hardships. Hiring a lawyer and paying for their legal service might be the last thing on your mind. To help accident victims with legal representation, Arash Law’s Uber accident lawyers in Temecula take accident cases with no upfront fees.
Taking on cases on a contingency fee basis means we will not bill you by the hour and do not require a retainer. Instead, we only get paid if we win your case. This type of payment structure aligns our interests with your goal of pursuing the compensation you may be entitled to for the damages you have suffered.
Aside from our lawyer fees, you may still have to pay case-related costs. We will review our fee agreement with you during your consultation to clarify any potential charges that may be applicable.
What Steps Should I Take After An Uber Accident In Temecula?
Following an Uber accident in Temecula, you might find it useful to take precautionary steps similar to those recommended after any collision. These are general suggestions intended to help you stay safe and organized, and should not be taken as legal advice.
- Transfer to a safer location if possible, preferably on the highway’s shoulder, and check for injuries.
- Contact the authorities so they can make an accident report, a piece of crucial evidence for your case, and request an emergency medical response if needed.
- Take note of all involved drivers’ contact and insurance details while at the scene, as well as the contact information of any eyewitnesses.
- Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, particularly the property damage, skid marks, the weather, and the positions of the cars involved, as well as all the injuries sustained.
- Seek medical evaluation as soon as you can, even if you feel fine, as some injuries show no immediate symptoms. Getting medical help promptly is important and can help support your claim.
- It is important to hold off on negotiating a potential settlement with the insurance company until you have retained legal counsel. Before accepting any initial offers, you should speak with an attorney about the possible value of your claim.
- Talk to experienced Temecula Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law. They will handle the negotiation process and help you pursue compensation, even taking your case to court if needed.
Who Is Liable For My Damages After An Uber Accident In Temecula?
Accident victims, especially those who lost a loved one, will most likely wonder whether they can directly sue Uber when pursuing compensation. The issue is that the company classifies its drivers as independent contractors, rather than employees. Therefore, they cannot be held accountable vicariously, unlike an employer can be held accountable for its employees’ negligence. Still, Uber provides both supplemental liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) insurance coverage when its drivers get involved in an accident.
Depending on the circumstances of your incident, your Temecula Uber accident attorneys can pursue damages from the following parties by establishing their liability:
Uber’s Insurance Provider
Uber offers a supplemental liability insurance policy to its drivers, even when there is no passenger in the car, as long as the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride. A larger amount is provided if the driver is transporting a passenger at the time of the crash. The company also provides UM/UIM coverage in case another driver causes the collision and has insufficient insurance to cover all your damages.
The Uber Driver’s Personal Insurance
If an Uber driver crashed into you but was not actively working for the company by transporting a passenger or being logged in to the app, your claim should be filed against the driver’s personal auto insurance policy rather than Uber’s.
A Third-Party Non-Uber Driver
Some Uber accidents are caused by another driver who crashes into the Uber you are riding. Your immediate option for pursuing damages in case of a third-party driver is to make a claim against that driver. As discussed above, you may be eligible for compensation under Uber’s UM/UIM coverage if the driver provides insufficient coverage for your damages.
A Government Agency
A government agency can sometimes be held accountable for an accident caused by one of its vehicles, poor road maintenance, or negligent design. You will need all the legal help you can get in determining the liability of a government entity and seeking compensation for any damages they may have caused.
Can I Sue Uber Directly If Its Driver Caused My Injury?
You can sue both Uber and its driver if you suffer injuries from an accident caused by the driver. Suing such a large company and establishing its liability requires legal experience and dedication. As the plaintiff, you need a strong legal basis and a compelling strategy to pursue compensation that reflects your injuries or losses.
For instance, even if Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, the company can still be sued for negligent hiring if the driver it hires turns out to be unqualified or outright negligent. The driver’s behavior on the job can have implications for the company.
Nevertheless, you can expect Uber to use its resources to defend itself in court. Facing a well-resourced large corporation on your own can often present challenges and may feel unbalanced. Consider working with our Uber accident lawyers in Temecula, who have experience in conducting thorough investigations and helping victims establish the liability of at-fault parties.
Uber’s Insurance Policy After An Accident
Since California is a “fault-based” state, the party who is found to have caused the collision will be liable for covering the victims’ damages. This holds true for Uber collisions, whether you were injured while walking as a pedestrian, in another car, or using Uber.
The insurance policies Uber carries to cover damages caused by its drivers vary and only apply if the collision occurred within the company’s approved “periods” of driving. How much the company pays after an accident will depend on these periods and other case-specific circumstances.
- Period 0 – This phase refers to the time the Uber driver is not using the app and is using the car for personal purposes. Uber’s liability coverage doesn’t apply, so the victim will need to file a claim against the driver’s personal auto insurance.
- Period 1 – This phase is when the driver is logged on to the app but has no passenger yet and is waiting for one. Uber’s policy is activated once an accident occurs during this time, offering a maximum bodily injury coverage of $50,000 per person per accident, $25,000 per property damage claim, and a total of $100,000 per accident.
- Periods 2 and 3 – Period 2 is when the driver is en route to pick a passenger up, while Period 3 is when the driver is transporting a passenger. During both periods, California law mandates Uber to maintain $1 million in liability insurance and another $1 million for UM/UIM motorist coverage.
Navigating the insurance process can be complex, even when Uber’s policy applies to the driver. Many claimants may not be familiar with the approaches insurance adjusters use when handling claims, which can influence the settlement process. For instance, adjusters might offer an early settlement soon after an accident, ask claimants to provide statements, or take time to review claims. Being aware of these practices can help claimants make informed decisions throughout the process.
The claims process involving ridesharing companies like Uber is rarely straightforward. For this reason, having a personal injury attorney handle your claim remains essential. Let our Temecula Uber accident lawyers help you pursue the compensation that may be available to you.
Top Causes Of Uber Accidents In Temecula
An Uber accident may have several causes. They contribute to the severity of the crash and, therefore, to your injuries and damages. The following are a few typical causes of Uber crashes that our Uber accident lawyers in Temecula often handle:
- Speeding – Exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for the road conditions can lead to crashes or collisions.
- Distracted Driving – Using a phone, talking to someone, or engaging in other activities while operating a vehicle can result in collisions. Even a few seconds of distraction can be fatal.
- Driving Under the Influence – Driving while impaired due to drinking alcohol or taking drugs can cause serious accidents and result in severe legal consequences.
- Driver Fatigue – Extended periods of time spent driving without enough rest can hinder a driver’s reaction time and decision-making skills, potentially leading to an accident.
- Inexperienced Drivers – New drivers are more likely to make mistakes on the road compared to experienced ones.
- Violating Traffic Laws – Running stop signs or red lights is a common example of a traffic rule violation that can result in accidents.
- Poor Weather Conditions – Heavy rain, fog, or any adverse weather conditions can be a significant factor in an accident, particularly if drivers don’t adjust their driving.
- Improper Vehicle Maintenance – Vehicles that are inadequately maintained can result in mechanical malfunctions, leading to accidents.
Keep in mind that different circumstances can contribute to accidents in various ways. A thorough investigation can identify these specific factors. Let Arash Law’s Uber accident attorneys in Temecula review your case and find out what caused your Uber accident.
Most Common Injuries Sustained In A Temecula Uber Accident
The common reasons discussed above that contribute to an Uber accident can affect its severity. As a result, the injuries sustained by victims, whether passengers, pedestrians, or drivers, can range from mild to catastrophic. The following are the most common injuries the Temecula Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law help accident victims seek compensation for:
- Head and Brain Injuries — Trauma to the head can cause concussions, contusions, or worse, serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that often lead to permanent damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Trauma to the spinal cord can also be disastrous, potentially leading to paralysis and impaired function.
- Neck and Back Injuries — The head may jerk forward and backward rapidly due to the crash, leading to whiplash, while trauma to the back can lead to herniated discs, vertebral fractures, or mobility issues.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — Pain and limited mobility may result from damage to the tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
- Cuts and Bruises — Abrasions, cuts, and bruises can result from impact and friction with sharp objects inside the car or debris on the road.
- Broken Bones or Fractures — A collision can have so much force that it results in fractures or broken bones, especially in the ribs, arms, and legs.
- Internal Injuries — Blunt force trauma can lead to internal bleeding or damage to the internal organs, which can lead to severe complications.
- Burn Injuries — Chemicals can leak after an accident, leading to fires and burn injuries that result in permanent scarring.
- Loss of Limbs or Amputations — Some injuries can get so severe that limbs may need to be amputated, which necessitates prosthetic devices.
- Emotional and Psychological Issues — Any accident can be traumatic enough to cause emotional distress and other psychological problems, such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Wrongful Death — Any accident may lead to death, the most tragic outcome. The family of the deceased is faced not only with a financial burden but also with great emotional turmoil.
Even if injuries appear minor at first, it’s critical for everyone involved in an accident to get medical help right away. Some injuries may not show symptoms for some time, and prompt medical evaluation and treatment are essential to strengthening a victim’s claim. One benefit of hiring the services of our Temecula Uber accident attorneys is helping you receive prompt and proper medical response and treatment by connecting you to medical professionals in the area.
Damages Victims Can Seek Compensation For In An Uber Accident Claim
Several factors can determine the amount of compensation a victim may pursue following an accident. The main contributing factors include the severity of the sustained injuries, their impact on the victim, and any resulting long-term expenses.
In any personal injury case, including those involving Uber accidents, the victim may seek compensation for two types of damages: economic and non-economic, which aim to compensate for the injuries and losses incurred.
- Economic or special damages refer to tangible losses that can be quantified. This includes present and future medical bills, ongoing rehabilitation and care, lost wages and reduced earning capacity, as well as property damage.
- Non-economic or general damages refer to intangible losses that cannot be easily quantified. This includes pain and suffering, mental trauma and psychological issues, permanent disability or disfigurement, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- In rare cases, the court may award punitive damages if the negligent party is proven to have acted with gross negligence or malice.
- A family can file a wrongful death claim if a loved one died in the accident.
A victim who sustains severe injuries that cause long-term damage may often pursue a higher amount of compensation than someone who only suffered minor cuts. However, this isn’t always necessarily the case, as the value of your claim may increase when new information becomes available.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
How To Prove Negligence In An Uber Accident
Victims of Uber accidents may be able to seek redress from multiple sources, such as the offending driver, another motorist, or the manufacturer of a faulty vehicle part. Regardless of the cause, negligence is the primary factor in every Uber accident, as it is in every other personal injury case. In order for a personal injury claim to be successful, your Temecula Uber accident lawyers must prove the following four elements of negligence involved in the accident:
- The defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care.
- The defendant breached the duty by acting negligently or failing to exercise due care and caution.
- The defendant’s negligence directly led to the accident that caused the victim’s injuries.
- The plaintiff suffered damages as a result of the injuries.
Is There A Time Limit For Filing An Uber Accident Claim In Temecula?
The statute of limitations, or the legal deadline to file an injury claim in California, is two years. Although that may seem like a lot of time, it isn’t when you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident.
- The deadline for filing a personal injury claim, including car and Uber accidents, is two years from the date of the crash or discovery of the injury.
- The deadline for filing a claim for property damage is three years.
- The deadline for filing a claim that involves a government agency is 6 months.
Additionally, when a victim is under the age of 18, for instance, the clock starts ticking once they reach that age. The denial of your claim could occur if you fail to file within the time limit. Thus, it’s vital to file as soon as possible. Arash Law’s Uber accident lawyers can help you file the required paperwork within the legal deadline while you recover.
Call Our Uber Accident Lawyers In Temecula For A Free Initial Consultation
If you’re seeking experienced Temecula Uber accident lawyers to handle your case, Arash Law can assist you. We help pursue compensation for your losses by negotiating with Uber’s insurers. We also prepare cases to be trial-ready so we can represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. With decades of experience in handling injury cases for victims, we have the resources to manage your case from start to finish.
We offer comprehensive legal services, assisting you in filing your claim within the legal deadline, investigating your accident, collecting essential evidence (such as witness statements), coordinating with expert witnesses to support your case, arranging medical care with qualified professionals, and more. To schedule a no-cost, no-obligation case review with our legal team, call (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
Our Uber accident lawyers in Temecula also represent clients in nearby cities and communities, including Murrieta, Dutch Village, French Valley, South Park, Glenoak Hills, Aguanga, La Cresta, Deluz, De Luz Heights, Fallbrook, Rainbow, Pala Mesa, Bonsall, Pala, Pauma Valley, Rincon, and the rest of California.
