Visalia Uber Accident Lawyers
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Visalia Uber Accident Lawyers Advocating For Your Legal Rights After An Injury
So you want to sue Uber, but you don’t know where to start? Let our Visalia Uber accident lawyers assist you through the process. We offer a free initial consultation at Arash Law to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a consultation.
Uber became a transportation network company in 2013. It has its headquarters in San Francisco. That has made the service very popular. By December 1, 2014, Uber became available in Visalia. It is often used at the Amtrak station and Sequoia National Park. With its popularity, it has led to additional traffic and more collisions. Consider speaking to a Visalia Uber accident lawyer from Arash Law after an Uber crash for experienced legal representation.
You may be able to pursue compensation if you suffer an injury as an Uber driver, passenger, or in a non-Uber vehicle, depending on the specifics of your case. We can assist you with filing your Uber accident claim and building your case. Our experienced Uber accident lawyers in Visalia work to help you seek compensation for your losses.
Getting Started With Uber
Using Uber is a straightforward process. To become a customer, you download the app, plug in some information, agree to Uber’s terms and conditions, and you are ready to request a ride. You can sign up using the website by entering your email and phone number. You will also be asked to provide personal information, like your name and preferred language, and add a credit or debit card so Uber can bill you for your rides.
After completing the signup process, an email confirmation will be sent to you. Now you can use the Uber app all across Visalia. Ordering a ride is also easy. You open your app, enter your pickup location and destination, and request a ride. You can also schedule a ride in advance. This ease of use is why many customers choose its services.
Customers can reach nearly anywhere in Visalia with just a few simple taps. Residents and tourists use Uber daily to get around town. All of these processes seem simple, and they are. However, what isn’t simple is pursuing compensation after an Uber accident. If you were involved in a rideshare crash, reach out to our Visalia Uber accident lawyers to understand your options for seeking compensation for your losses.
Our client was stopped at a two-way stop sign before proceeding into an intersection where he was struck by a police cruiser traveling 70 mph, resulting in serious injuries.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Uber Accidents Our Lawyers Handle In Visalia
Rideshares are on the road morning, noon, and night. Traveling to the airport, for example, is a common reason people use Uber. Sometimes, going to places with complex or expensive parking is sufficient to take out your phone and call for a ride.
Uber drivers are ready, whether you are trying to get through bumper-to-bumper traffic on Highway 198 or heading up Mooney Avenue. Having Uber drivers readily available presents some unique challenges. While they are convenient for customers, they also cause congestion.
Uber drivers also have work challenges. First, they frequently use their phones. For many motorists, using a cell phone can increase the risk of a crash and may result in serious consequences. While many motorists can choose to use their phones, Uber drivers do not have the same option. Because Uber drivers rely on their phones to follow GPS directions, respond to nearby requests, and perform other tasks as needed, they must balance the demands of the app with the need to stay attentive to the road, which can make driving more complex.
One distraction can cause a driver to take their eyes and attention off the road, and this inattention can result in a higher risk of a collision. Our Visalia Uber accident lawyers can investigate your case and gather evidence to help you pursue damages, including your medical expenses.
Causes Of Uber Accidents
While distracted driving is a significant contributor to Uber-related accidents, there are other factors that add to the risk of rideshare crashes, including:
- Speeding
- Reckless Driving
- Driver Fatigue
- Impaired Driving
- Traffic Law Violations
Many of these are driver errors and can be prevented. Uber drivers must pay attention to the road and refrain from engaging in these actions. When they do, it can result in serious consequences for themselves and others. When an Uber driver makes a mistake causing you injury, consider calling our Visalia Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law to determine if you have a valid case.
Dangers Caused By Distracted Rideshare Driving In Visalia
Generally, Uber drivers are good drivers, but the nature of their work exposes them to significant distractions. The primary tool they use for work is their cell phone, which can also be a major source of risk, as they must periodically check their phones for requests and directions.
The temptation or incentive to get more customers is another distraction Uber drivers face. Some drivers will have apps for multiple rideshare companies they work for, allowing them to accept multiple fares for the same trip. Imagine the distractions of handling one application. Now multiply that by two.
Rideshare companies allow their drivers to use multiple applications to get rides or switch between them. This loophole can cause additional insurance complications. An accident involving one rideshare app is complex. When the driver has both apps open, that can further complicate the process.
Another way to increase the number of rides is to complete current ones quickly. The faster they drop you off, the faster they can get another passenger in the car. That desire for more income may push them to speed and become reckless. Some passengers may also pay drivers more if they can reach a destination faster.
Some customers can also be the source of distractions. It might feel awkward to some people to be in a car without speaking, which can lead to small talk or long conversations. Sometimes, passengers may want the driver to adjust the air conditioning or the radio. Distractions like these can be avoided and can help lower the risk of collisions.
Another issue is fatigue. As we have mentioned, Uber drivers make more money the more they work. They often stay up later, get less sleep, and work odd hours for those extra fares. Lack of sleep causes the same effects as driving impaired. The rideshare driver may also become more careless. If any of these resulted in your injuries and losses, our Visalia Uber accident lawyers can conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence to help determine the cause of your accident and identify potentially liable parties.
Studies On Rideshare Collisions
MIT Technology Review looked at studies about rideshare collisions. They found that since Uber was introduced into society, it has led to an approximately 3% rise in fatal crashes annually. That represents a significant number of deaths nationwide. With Visalia at the heart of the rideshare surge, we have seen more of these incidents here than in other places.
The study also found an increase in deadheadings contributing to congestion. Deadheading is when a rideshare driver is strolling about without a customer, waiting for a request. Instead of resting somewhere, they drive around in traffic, waiting for their phone to ring. Deadheading accounts for approximately 40% of an Uber driver’s shift.
These drivers are on the road without a passenger longer than if they had one. They are logging more miles and are at a higher risk of being involved in accidents. With the uncertainty of fares, drivers are taking matters into their own hands and placing themselves in areas where they are more likely to get a ride request.
Uber Insurance Coverage For Drivers In Visalia
Uber drivers are required to carry personal auto insurance, and in the event of an accident, claims are filed first with the driver’s personal insurance provider. However, some insurance policies do not cover work-related accidents, which can result in denied claims.
Uber insurance policies provide additional insurance coverage in certain circumstances. For drivers logged on and waiting for a ride, Uber provides up to $50,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. From the time the driver accepts a ride until they drop off a passenger, Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage. The same limit of up to $1 million also applies to uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage during this period.
Even with these coverage options, accessing insurance benefits can sometimes be complex, and claims may be subject to review or require additional documentation to be submitted. If coverage through Uber is not available or is insufficient, individuals may be able to file a claim with their own auto insurance policy. Consulting with Visalia Uber accident lawyers can help you navigate the claims process and address any challenges that may arise.
Who Can Be Held Legally Liable For An Uber Crash?
Injured Uber passengers often believe that the company bears responsibility for their injuries. While that is true for other commercial vehicles, it is not the case for Uber. Liability in rideshare accidents can be more complex because drivers are classified as independent contractors. Our car accident lawyers, who handle Uber cases, have years of experience assisting clients in pursuing legal claims against negligent parties.
Our team can investigate your crash and gather evidence to help establish fault. If that is the driver, we can work with their insurance carriers. If the situation meets Uber’s insurance coverage policies, we will assist you in pursuing damages through the appropriate channels. Regardless of the specifics of the crash, our Visalia Uber accident lawyers will review all details thoroughly to identify potential avenues for compensation.
How Skilled Visalia Uber Accident Lawyers Can Help
Throughout the claims process, individuals who have been injured often encounter challenges, including low settlement offers, disputes over liability, delays, and claim denials. Uber’s additional coverage comes with several stipulations. Experienced Visalia Uber accident lawyers can help you address these issues by dealing with the claims process and communicating with insurance adjusters on your behalf. We can assist you with the following:
- Handling Communication — All communication between you and the insurer will halt when you employ a Visalia Uber accident lawyer. Arash Law can manage all emails, phone calls, and other correspondence, allowing you to focus on healing.
- Gathering Evidence — Our team can assist you in gathering evidence to help support your claim. These may include medical records, police reports, surveillance footage, and eyewitness statements, which can help build a well-supported case.
- Focused Legal Representation — When you file a claim after an injury, your statements and actions, including what you post online, may be reviewed and could influence your case. Many victims are unaware of the potential impact of their actions during this process. Our Uber accident attorney in Visalia can guide you through the process, helping you make informed decisions about your claim.
Arash Law is dedicated to advocating for your rights and representing your interests. We use our decades of experience in handling injury cases to assist victims with their claims. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
No Upfront Cost
Generally, personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. If the Visalia Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law do not recover compensation for your injuries, you will not owe us attorney’s fees. We do not get paid for our legal services unless your case results in a settlement or verdict. Please note that other case-related costs may still apply, regardless of the outcome. We will clarify our fee agreement with you in writing and address any questions or concerns you may have during your consultation.
Our initial consultation is also free. You can discuss your case with us without any obligation to hire us. We will review the information you provide to assess case merit. If we both agree to move forward, you can proceed with signing up with the law firm. Once you become a client, we will commit to prioritizing your case.
Determining Liability In An Uber Crash
Our Visalia Uber accident lawyers are committed to advocating for the rights and representing the interests of injured victims before Uber, the insurance companies, and, if necessary, the jury. We will work to build strategies to help establish the at-fault party’s liability. Our team can investigate the following to support your claim:
- RideShare Hiring Practices — Reviewing the driver’s criminal and driving history is essential. If there were any charges or infractions, did Uber know and not care?
- Uber Safety Procedures — We can review the training and instruction that drivers receive, as well as internal practices that help keep passengers safe and happy. We can look for disciplinary actions against the driver if there are employee records.
- Uber Employee Driving Record — We can review any violations the company has for the specific driver. These violations can call the driver’s credibility into question.
- Vehicle Safety — Cars must be well-maintained and road-safe. If a malfunction contributed to the accident, liability may depend on whether proper maintenance was performed and whether any defects were present at the time of the crash. Depending on the findings, responsibility may fall on the driver, a maintenance provider, a parts manufacturer, or other responsible parties. Each party is responsible for maintaining the safety of the vehicles they operate.
- Sleepy Drivers — Reviewing how long the driver was logged into the app can provide insight into whether they were tired while driving. Extended periods of activity may help support claims related to driver fatigue and can be considered in determining whether fatigue contributed to the collision.
Steps To Take After A Visalia Uber Accident
There are certain steps you can take to help protect yourself and your potential claim after an Uber accident in Visalia, such as:
- Call 911 — If you can get to your phone, dial 911. Remember, these calls are recorded, so you can provide 911 with your account of the accident while the details are still fresh. If you move quickly enough, we can request 911 recordings. Another benefit of informing the authorities is that the police can promptly file a crash report. Do not assume the Uber driver or another bystander will call the authorities.
- Collecting Evidence — Gather evidence from the scene of the accident, but only if you are not gravely injured or in an unsafe location. A collision on the freeway will require you to stay in your vehicle and impede your ability to collect proof. With your smartphone, take pictures of your surroundings, injuries, cars, and other relevant details. Additionally, record the names and contact information of all individuals involved.
- Seeking Medical Attention — Seek medical treatment from the paramedics responding to the scene. Allow them to examine you and take their professional opinion regarding further treatment. If they suggest you go to a hospital, it’s crucial to follow their recommendation. Even if you do not need emergency care, visit your doctor for a medical evaluation. Internal injuries are common and deadly if left untreated. Prioritize your medical diagnosis and put your health first.
- Limit Discussion About Your Case — If you can, avoid speaking to anyone about your case. This step is crucial, especially when dealing with the insurance company. They may call you and ask for a recorded statement. If they say they are recording the call, you may pause the conversation and refer them to your Visalia Uber accident lawyer.
- Avoid Posting Online — Stay offline and refrain from posting about your accident on social media. Information shared online may be reviewed and could potentially impact your claim.
- Review Settlement Offers Carefully — Refrain from accepting any settlement offers without careful consideration. Early settlement offers may not reflect the full extent of your injuries or losses. Reviewing all terms and understanding the impact of acceptance is important before making any decisions.
- Consult With an Uber Accident Lawyer — Rideshare accident cases can involve unique issues. Consulting with Visalia Uber accident lawyers who have experience handling these types of claims can help you better understand your legal options.
These are vital steps and recommended things to do in the event of an Uber accident in Visalia. However, depending on your circumstances, you can take additional steps to help protect yourself.
When You Are An Uber Passenger
As an Uber passenger, regardless of who is at fault, you may be able to pursue compensation through Uber’s insurance policy. They have liability and underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage. If another driver caused your collision, their policy can be a source of potential compensation, depending on the specifics of the case. Consider contacting Arash Law to discuss your options.
When You Are Another Driver, Bicyclist, Or Pedestrian
If you are involved in an accident with an Uber vehicle as a driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for your health and to document any injuries. Our Visalia Uber accident lawyers can help you determine which insurance policies may provide compensation and connect you with medical professionals who can help with your treatment.
When You Are An Uber Driver
As an Uber driver involved in a collision, you may encounter complex legal and insurance issues. It’s important to call the police and paramedics, seek treatment for your injuries, and keep a copy of the crash report for your records. Legal representation can help you navigate the claims process and address any questions you may have regarding liability or coverage.
Uber And Rideshare Insurance
Car accidents can be complex in general, but Uber-related claims are especially complicated due to the driver’s status at the time of the collision, as it can significantly impact how the claim is handled. It will also determine which insurance policies may apply and who may be held responsible if the insurance does not provide sufficient coverage.
Uber has three distinctions for its drivers. The policy that may apply to your case depends on the period the driver is in during your collision. The periods are:
- Period One — If the driver is logged on and awaiting a request, Uber’s third-party liability insurance may cover the injuries and damages in case of a crash. The coverage limits for these policies are $50,000 per person, $100,000 total per collision, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Period Two — If the driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger, Uber provides up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage per accident during this phase.
- Period Three — When the driver has a passenger in the vehicle and is transporting them to their destination, Uber provides the same coverage as period two. It will continue until the passenger exits the car and the ride ends in the app.
Depending on the driver’s status, different routes for seeking compensation may be available.
What Visalia Uber Accident Lawyers Can Do For You
The primary assistance your Uber accident lawyer in Visalia can offer you is gathering evidence and helping you seek compensation from the appropriate insurance company. If you are in a collision with an Uber driver who has logged off the app, the claim process is the same as a traditional car accident claim. Victims might have to navigate multiple insurance policies, making the process confusing.
Our team has decades of experience helping injury victims pursue compensation in California, including Visalia and its surrounding areas. We can assist you in seeking compensation and negotiating with the involved parties on your behalf. We can also represent you in court if settlement offers do not fully cover your losses. It’s important to limit your interactions with the insurance company. Consider seeking legal support from Arash Law after an Uber accident. You can schedule a free initial consultation by calling us at (888) 488-1391.
Who Can Be Held Liable In A Visalia Uber Accident?
Uber claims are often more complex than traditional car accident claims, as challenges may arise, including disputes over liability and claims denials. Here are some things to remember regarding liability after an Uber accident:
- Depending on the circumstances, the company may provide coverage for your injuries and property damage if the rideshare driver is responsible for the accident.
- If another driver is at fault, the driver’s insurer may be held liable for the resulting damage.
- Rideshare UM/UI coverage may also apply if an uninsured or underinsured motorist caused the accident.
These are the basics, but the situation can be much more complex, and each case will have different circumstances that affect liability. Our Visalia Uber accident lawyers can help determine liability and explore potential avenues for compensation.
April 2019: $14M settlement in a traumatic brain injury case involving a defective piece of equipment at a factory.– BRIAN BEECHER
Insurance Requirements For Uber
The California Public Utilities Commission has established rules governing transportation network companies, such as Uber. Their goal is to ensure the safety of all individuals participating in the rideshare process. Uber’s insurance policy for period one offers coverage such as:
- $50,000 for injuries or death for one person in a collision.
- $100,000 for injuries or death total per collision.
- $30,000 for property damage
Transportation networking companies must also have excess liability insurance coverage available. The minimum is $200,000 per accident. The $1 million policy also covers passengers and drivers during periods two and three. When the driver isn’t working, the claim is strictly handled through personal insurance coverage, and Uber is not involved.
In a recent push to protect drivers, the California Public Utilities Commission is considering classifying TNC drivers as employees. The reference is State Assembly Bill 5. This decision can impact how drivers are treated moving forward. It will also affect how insurance claims are handled. Uber and other ride-sharing services may need to adjust their business practices.
This bill impacts the safety of drivers, passengers, and others, while also helping to address negligence and liability issues. Drivers will now have more rights when they drive for Uber. While these changes are taking place, a gray area remains for claims. Working with a Visalia Uber accident lawyer can help your case comply with the new laws.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Bodily injury is common in car accidents, and Uber crashes are no exception. These accident injuries can result in ongoing medical care and mounting bills. Some of the common injuries a victim can suffer in a Visalia Uber accident are:
- Whiplash
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Bone Fractures
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Loss of Limb
- Eye Injuries
- Back Injury
- Cuts and Bruises
- Head Injuries
It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention for these injuries. Some will require medication and rehabilitation to heal. Others can be permanent, requiring lifelong care and medical expenses.
Available Compensation In Uber Accident Claims In Visalia
As an injury victim of an accident caused by a liable party, you may be able to pursue compensation for your losses. The compensation that you may be able to pursue depends on several factors, such as the severity of your injuries and their impact on your quality of life. Injury victims may be able to seek compensation for:
- Loss of Income
- Pain and Suffering
- Medical Expense
- Future Medical Bills
- Physical Therapy
- Property Damage
- Loss of Enjoyment
- Funeral and Burial Expenses
When an accident results in the death of a loved one, the case becomes much more complex. Eligible family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for the resulting losses. It can help cover their household contributions. A financial award will not bring a loved one back, but legal action may help hold parties accountable and address the financial loss resulting from the accident.
Our Visalia personal injury lawyers can help you navigate the legal aspect of your claim. Arash Law will work to determine liability and help you hold the at-fault parties accountable for their negligence.
Steps To Take If You Are Injured In An Uber Accident
There are some steps you can take to help protect yourself after a crash:
- Call the Police — They can investigate the scene, clear the debris, and write a report. The report can help support your case.
- Seek Medical Attention — Big or small, consult a doctor for your injuries. Get a medical evaluation and ensure it is documented.
- Write Down What You Remember — While the details are fresh in your mind, write down what you remember. Recall what happened and what you saw around you.
- Document Your Injuries — Take pictures of your injuries the same day or the next. It is crucial to have photos before they heal, as they can help show how severe they were initially.
- Consult a Visalia Uber Accident Lawyer — We will advocate for your rights and provide personalized legal support throughout the claims process. With decades of experience handling injury cases, we are ready to assist you in addressing the challenges that often arise in personal injury claims.
Reach Out To Our Dedicated Visalia Uber Accident Lawyers
Arash Law aims to pursue compensation for injured victims following rideshare collisions. If you have been involved in a crash, our Visalia Uber accident lawyers can provide you with legal support for your case.
Our experienced attorneys can arrange an in-person meeting with you at your convenience anywhere in Visalia or nearby areas, including Tulare, Hanford, Seville, and beyond. We also serve victims in San Francisco, Riverside, Sacramento, San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sherman Oaks, and throughout California. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form here for a free initial consultation.
