West Covina Uber Accident Lawyers
Powerful West Covina Uber Accident Lawyers Bringing Justice Within Your Reach
Since its groundbreaking launch in 2009, Uber has undeniably transformed local transportation. With a simple tap on your smartphone, you can now request and pay for rides to different destinations quickly. Have you recently been involved in an unfortunate Uber accident in the city of West Covina? Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 or complete our online form for a free case evaluation. Our West Covina Uber accident lawyers will guide you through every step of the legal process, and you will only pay fees if we win your case.
When it comes to popular destinations for entertainment and culinary delights, West Covina undoubtedly takes the spotlight. With its proximity to Hollywood, it is no surprise that this city has been featured in several films, music videos, and television shows. The City’s prominent locations for tourists and visitors contribute to the increased demand for ride-sharing services like Uber. As more people seek to explore West Covina’s attractions, the number of Uber trips in the area could rise, potentially leading to a higher risk of accidents.
While Uber is convenient, it comes without potential dangers. Uber drivers lack specific training for their jobs. The demands of Uber work involve long hours behind the wheel and driving to unfamiliar places. As a passenger, knowing the potential for Uber rideshare accidents that can result in serious injuries is important. You may be eligible for compensation if you’ve suffered an injury in an Uber accident.
Whether you’re a passenger, driver, or pedestrian involved in an Uber accident, Arash Law is here to help. Our West Covina Uber accident attorneys have a client-centered approach, prioritizing the well-being and best interests of those we represent. We provide personalized attention and support throughout the entire legal process, ensuring that our clients are informed and empowered every step of the way. Our team of skilled Uber attorneys in West Covina will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong legal strategy. When it comes to personal injury cases in West Covina, you can rest assured that your legal matters are in capable hands.
Settlement in a Wrongful Death Motor Vehicle Accident – largest Wrongful Death Settlement in Monterey County in 2020 – Top 20 Wrongful Death Settlement in California for 2020;– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Why Is It Important To Hire West Covina Uber Accident Lawyers at Arash Law?
Rideshare accidents can cause various injuries, from minor to life-altering. Our skilled Uber accident attorneys will carefully assess the impact of your injuries and tirelessly work to obtain compensation that covers all your losses. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on your life, and we are committed to aggressively advocating for your rights.
Our legal experts are adept negotiators, handling interactions with insurance companies on your behalf. We know insurers may try to diminish settlements or blame the injured party. If negotiations fall short, our Uber accident lawyers in West Covina are ready to take your case to trial. With a proven track record in the courtroom, we will leverage our deep understanding of rideshare accident laws to pursue your maximum compensation.
How Ridesharing Accidents Are Different Than Regular Accidents
Rideshare accidents differ from typical traffic incidents. Instead of just two drivers, you’re dealing with the rideshare company, a driver, a passenger, and possibly a third party. Because rideshare companies like Uber see drivers as contractors, they often argue they’re not responsible for a driver’s reckless actions. Insurance companies also use this contractor status to deny injury claims.
The driver of a rideshare isn’t always a professional; it’s usually an average person trying to earn extra money. Since drivers set their hours, the one picking you up might have already been driving for hours, affecting their ability to drive safely.
Distractions like using the rideshare app while driving can also contribute to accidents. Uber drivers, for example, must use the app for picking up fares and navigation, which can be a significant distraction and lead to accidents if they’re not focused on the road.
For this reason, it is essential to seek legal assistance from seasoned Uber accident lawyers who understand the unique challenges of rideshare accidents. With Arash Law, we can help you hold the responsible parties accountable and work towards getting you the highest compensation possible for your injuries.
West Covina Uber Accident Statistics
Uber’s impact on modern transportation has sparked discussions on road safety, particularly relevant to West Covina. Legislative efforts are underway to address concerns arising from ridesharing trips, where accidents remain an undeniable reality.
As per Uber’s safety report for 2019-2020, 101 individuals lost their lives in 91 fatal incidents involving Uber vehicles. Notably, 32% of these crashes involved at least one speeding vehicle, while alcohol-impaired driving contributed to 23% of incidents. Victims included pedestrians (64%), vulnerable road users (42%), third-party motorcyclists (29%), and bicyclists or scooter riders (7%).
Data from 2017 and 2018 revealed 107 fatalities involving 97 Uber vehicles. Subsequent safety assessments for 2019 and 2020 confirmed a consistent trend, with 101 deaths occurring in 91 fatal incidents. Uber attributed these incidents predominantly to speeding (32%) and driving under the influence of alcohol (23%). The most affected victims were pedestrians (64%), followed by vulnerable road users (42%), motorcyclists (29%), and cyclists (7%).
These statistics serve as a reminder for West Covina residents to prioritize safety during rideshare trips. In the unfortunate event of an accident, seeking prompt legal assistance from West Covina Uber accident lawyers from Arash Law becomes necessary due to Uber-related incidents in a rapidly moving city.
What Are The Causes and Effects Of Uber Accidents?
While these services enhance road safety by deterring drunk driving, reducing congestion, and maximizing vehicle resources, some introduce new safety concerns.
Accidents can stem from several factors, such as:
- Speeding – Speeding is a significant factor contributing to Uber accidents, especially when drivers exceed safe limits on unfamiliar roads or in densely populated areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. Higher speeds reduce reaction time, making driving unfamiliar roads or responding promptly to unexpected situations more challenging, thereby increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Driver Negligence – Driver negligence, often tied to smartphone use, poses a high risk. When drivers prioritize interacting with their phones for navigation or accepting ride requests, they divert attention from the road. This divided focus can lead to delayed reactions, failure to anticipate hazards, and an increased probability of accidents.
- Driver Error – Accidents can result from errors such as failing to maintain lane discipline, losing vehicle control, or inadequate communication with other drivers on the road. These lapses contribute to confusion, reduce predictability, and elevate the chances of collisions between rideshare vehicles and other road users.
- Inebriated Driving – Inebriated driving, including drunk, tired, or distracted driving, poses a severe threat. Drivers impaired by alcohol or distractions are less likely to make sound judgments, have slower reaction times, and may exhibit unpredictable behavior, increasing the risk of accidents involving Uber vehicles.
- Nighttime Visibility – Driving into busy venues with bright lights at night introduces challenges related to nighttime visibility. Reduced visibility can impair a driver’s ability to identify obstacles, pedestrians, or potential hazards in a timely manner, increasing the risk of accidents, especially in areas traveled by ride-sharing services.
- Vehicle Malfunction – Uber accidents may occur due to vehicle malfunctions resulting from faulty parts or inadequate maintenance. Failure to address mechanical issues can lead to unexpected breakdowns, loss of control, or other malfunctions that compromise the safety of the driver and passengers.
- Road Environment – The road environment, influenced by weather conditions and roadway debris, contributes to Uber vehicle accidents. Adverse weather can reduce traction and visibility, while debris on the road poses hazards. Drivers must adapt to these conditions, and failure to do so increases the likelihood of accidents.
- Road Congestion – Congested roads, particularly in high-traffic and ride-sharing zones, elevate the risk of accidents. Increased traffic density leads to frequent stops, starts, and lane changes, creating an environment where collisions are more likely to occur.
The surge in ride-sharing services, including popular platforms like Uber, signifies a transformative shift in how people and goods access our suburban roads like West Covina. While ride-sharing services offer undeniable advantages, understanding and addressing these risk factors is important for ensuring the safety of both drivers and passengers in the evolving transportation system. Being involved in an Uber accident can be overwhelming, but our West Covina Uber accident attorneys are here to help ease your concerns and provide the support you need.
What Are The Common Injuries In Uber Accidents?
The primary causes of these accidents may differ slightly, but their consequences are similar to those of any catastrophic motor vehicle crash. It includes rollovers, rear-end collisions, head-on impacts, T-bone accidents, sideswipes, and incidents that involve single or multiple vehicles. Each of these scenarios has the potential to lead to severe injuries or, tragically, fatalities.
There are several injuries associated with such accidents, including:
- Whiplash – Whiplash is a common injury in Uber accidents, often occurring when a vehicle suddenly stops or is involved in a collision. Passengers or drivers may experience rapid back-and-forth neck movement, causing strain on the cervical spine. This type of injury is frequently associated with rear-end collisions, a scenario not uncommon in urban areas where ride-sharing services operate.
- Back Injuries – Back injuries can result from the impact of a collision or sudden stop. The force exerted on the spine during an accident, such as in a T-bone collision or sideswipe, can lead to various back injuries. These injuries may range from muscle strains to more severe damage affecting the spinal cord, depending on the intensity of the crash.
- Fractures – These are significant concerns in Uber accidents, especially when the collision involves a high impact. Fractures can occur in various body parts, such as limbs or the spine, and are often associated with accidents that result in rollovers or forceful impacts, which can happen in crowded urban traffic conditions.
- Lacerations – Lacerations, or cuts, can result from broken glass or other sharp objects within the vehicle during an accident. Rideshare accidents may involve sideswipes or collisions with objects, leading to broken windows and the potential for occupants to sustain lacerations. This emphasizes the need for proper safety measures and maintenance of vehicle integrity.
- Internal Bleeding – Internal bleeding is a serious consequence of high-impact collisions, and it can be a hidden yet life-threatening injury. In Uber accidents, the force of the impact, especially in scenarios like head-on collisions or multi-vehicle crashes, can cause internal organs to sustain damage, leading to bleeding.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries – In the context of ride-sharing services, accidents involving sudden stops or severe impacts may lead to passengers or drivers hitting their heads on surfaces within the vehicle. TBIs can have long-lasting consequences, and there is a need for preventative measures and awareness of the risks associated with Uber accidents.
At Arash Law, our team of Uber accident lawyers understands the devastating consequences that Uber accidents can have on individuals. If you or a loved one has experienced these injuries, contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step with us today.
How To Determine Liability In An Uber Accident
Determining responsibility in rideshare accidents can be challenging, given that Uber drivers are considered independent contractors. While this independence benefits those who want to be their bosses, it can pose challenges for individuals injured in these accidents. Here’s a breakdown of Uber’s liability coverage during different periods:
- Period 0 – Uber does not provide liability coverage when the driver is not currently using or the driver is logged out of the rideshare app.
- Period 1 – When the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride, Uber steps in with liability coverage if the driver causes an accident. This includes up to $50,000 per person injured, $100,000 total injury liability per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability.
- Period 2 – This occurs after the driver has accepted a trip and is en route to the rider. Uber’s liability coverage significantly increases to $1 million in case of an accident caused by the driver.
- Period 3 – When an accident occurs while the rider is in the Uber vehicle, Uber provides extensive coverage, including up to $1 million for injuries, limited damage to the driver’s car, and uninsured motorists’ coverage.
These coverage periods are crucial for passengers and drivers to be aware of the protection at different stages of the ridesharing process. Our West Covina Uber accident attorneys can help you determine who is responsible for your rideshare accident and whether Uber is liable for your injuries.
Who Is Responsible For My West Covina Uber Accident?
With the increasing popularity of ridesharing services like Uber, there is a surge in accidents involving these vehicles. Dealing with the consequences of such accidents can be confusing, especially when determining liability and filing a car accident claim. As a rideshare passenger, your situation is unique, and understanding your legal rights and options is vital.
The insurance claims process may involve multiple parties, including your car insurance, the driver’s insurance, Uber’s insurance, and potentially a third-party insurer. Depending on the specifics of the accident, the involved parties, and the response from the insurer, it is advisable to consult with West Covina Uber accident lawyers to resolve your claim effectively.
The reassuring news for ride-share passengers is that, as a non-at-fault party in the crash, someone else’s insurance is likely to cover your damages. Uber provides insurance coverage for your damages since you were actively riding as a passenger with the app on.
However, potential complications may arise if the rideshare company denies your claim, offers inadequate compensation for your damages, or if there’s a possibility of filing a claim against multiple parties. In such instances, seeking legal advice becomes crucial to protect your rights and receive fair compensation for the damages incurred during the rideshare accident.
When Should I File An Insurance Claim Against Uber?
Initiating an insurance claim is a primary avenue to seek compensation following an Uber accident. However, the intricacies of Uber accident claims introduce a layer of complexity. Despite assuming additional protections due to Uber drivers’ auto insurance alongside Uber’s $1 million policy, the resolution process takes time and effort.
Both insurance entities, reluctant to fulfill claims, often employ strategies to minimize settlements. Uber frequently contends that their coverage was inactive during the accident, contributing to the complexity. Uber’s auto insurance coverage is effective only when the driver is actively transporting a passenger or in driver mode. Consequently, if the collision occurs outside these parameters, Uber’s auto insurance may not extend coverage.
Typically, insurance settlements encompass medical expenses and, potentially, vehicle repairs. However, if the insurance claim is restrictive or the responsible party lacks adequate coverage, alternative avenues should be explored to address your needs comprehensively.
When Should I File An Uber Accident Lawsuit?
Facing a trial may seem daunting, but it’s important to recognize that you possess the right to full reimbursement in a court setting. Unlike the constraints often associated with filing an insurance claim, the legal process empowers you without limitations.
In an Uber accident lawsuit, the party found liable can be compelled to reimburse you for every loss resulting from the defendant’s negligent actions. While the prospect of a trial might feel overwhelming, it’s reassuring that your Uber accident attorneys are by your side, guiding the claims process. The expertise of our Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law ensures you receive equitable compensation for the hardships and damages you’ve endured.
How Do You Recover Maximum Compensation After An Uber Accident In West Covina?
Once we’ve figured out who’s at fault for the accident, your Uber accident lawyers in West Covina can start assessing the extent of your damages. This helps you decide how much compensation to go after and where to kick off the process.
Depending on your situation, a couple of main avenues exist to recover compensation after an Uber accident in West Covina. You can file a claim with the insurance company or a civil lawsuit. These options give us flexibility in pursuing the compensation you deserve based on the circumstances of your case.
If you are trying to decide what to pursue to recover the maximum compensation, our West Covina Uber accident attorneys at Arash Law will guide you through this complicated process. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you calculate your personal injury compensation for your Uber accident.
In a recent rideshare accident case, our Uber accident attorneys have successfully secured $1,125,000 in compensation for our client, who sustained a lower back injury. Even though our client resided in Colorado during the entire litigation process, we successfully handled these issues and won a substantial recovery for our client. This outcome demonstrates our dedication to delivering positive results for clients facing injuries, particularly in cases involving rideshare accidents.
November 2020: $9M settlement in a mild traumatic brain injury case involving a construction worker injured at the jobsite.– BRIAN BEECHER
What Compensation Can I Get After an Uber Accident in West Covina?
Victims can collect damages for their injuries and related expenses if they’re in an Uber accident. If the person responsible for the accident behaved recklessly, the court might also grant punitive damages, although this doesn’t happen often.
There are two main types of damages:
Economic Damages
These are easy to calculate. You add up all the expenses you had because of the accident. This can cover things like:
- Medical bills – In an Uber accident, this covers the expenses incurred for necessary medical treatments to address injuries sustained. Examples include payments for hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Property damage – This compensation category addresses the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle or any other damaged property. It includes expenses such as repair bills or replacement costs for your car.
- Lost income – This category compensates for wages or income lost during recovery when you cannot work. Examples include salary or wages you couldn’t earn due to time off work while recovering.
- Loss of earning capacity – This aspect considers the long-term impact on your ability to earn a living, considering any permanent changes. It provides compensation for potential reductions in earning potential if the accident leads to a lasting disability that affects your ability to work.
Non-economic Damages
There’s no fixed formula for these damages. They include things like:
- Pain and suffering – This compensates for the physical and emotional distress resulting from injuries sustained in the Uber accident, addressing both immediate and ongoing discomfort.
- Emotional distress and trauma – It acknowledges and provides compensation for the psychological impact, stress, and emotional trauma experienced during and after the Uber crash.
- Losses related to disability or physical impairment – This compensates for the economic and personal losses associated with lasting disability or physical impairment.
- Losses related to permanent disfigurement – It addresses the emotional and psychological toll of enduring changes in physical appearance, such as scarring, caused by Uber.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – This compensation recognizes and addresses the limitations on daily activities or hobbies caused by the Uber accident, affecting one’s overall quality of life.
California has no maximum limit on how much compensation you can receive as a personal injury victim. If your case goes to trial, the jury can award you any amount they believe is fair based on the evidence and your estimated losses.
Filing for Punitive Damages
You must win your claim for economic or non-economic damages to pursue punitive damages. This shows the Uber driver’s actions were intentionally careless, reckless, or harmful. For example, if the driver purposefully drove under the influence, ignored speed limits, drove while tired, neglected known mechanical issues, or drove aggressively. These are all the driver’s choices, showing high negligence. It means they willingly ignored the possible injuries or deaths that could happen because of their actions.
When deciding on punitive damages in West Covina, the jury examines several factors. The main goal is to discourage the driver from repeating the same behaviors. So, they examine the driver’s behavior before and after the accident, consider the driver’s assets, and assess the likelihood of the driver causing harm to future passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers. Finally, the jury considers the actual physical, financial, and psychological harm suffered by the person making a claim.
At Arash Law, our West Covina Uber accident attorneys are committed to achieving justice for our clients. If you are hesitant about what damages to claim, our Uber accident attorneys will help you by pursuing economic, non-economic, and punitive damages on your behalf.
Statute of Limitations for West Covina Uber Accident Claims
Taking prompt action on your Uber accident claim is imperative. In California, the personal injury statute of limitations is restrictive, allowing injury victims only a two-year window from the accident date to file, as per California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1, before the statute of limitations expires.
Failure to file your claim within this timeframe can result in the civil courts declining to hear your case. If you have uncertainties or concerns regarding the approaching statute of limitations, feel free to reach out to your Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law for clarification and legal guidance. Be mindful of these timelines to safeguard your ability to seek appropriate recourse for your injuries and damages.
What Should You Do After Your West Covina Uber Accident?
Whether you are involved in an accident with an Uber or a rideshare passenger when a collision occurs, coping with it can be stressful. To ensure you aren’t left footing the bill for an accident that wasn’t your fault, follow these six crucial steps:
- Gather Evidence Immediately – Collect evidence right after the accident, if possible. Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, vehicle damage (yours or the one you were in), damage to the other vehicle, skid marks, and any other relevant details. Obtain names and phone numbers of witnesses and insurance information from the other party involved.
- Seek Emergency Medical Care – Get medical attention promptly. Allow medics at the scene to examine you, and then go to the hospital for a thorough check by the ER doctor. This step is vital even if you feel fine initially, ensuring any potential injuries are documented and treated promptly.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case – Refrain from talking to anyone about your case, mainly representatives from insurance companies. Be cautious of phone calls from insurance adjusters, regardless of which company they represent. Speaking prematurely with insurance companies may jeopardize your claim.
- Stay Off Social Media – Resist the urge to post about the accident on social media. Anything you say can be used against you, so it’s best to let your Uber accident lawyers in West Covina handle communications on your behalf.
- Decline Offers or Checks from the Insurance Company – Do not accept offers or checks from the insurance company without consulting your Uber accident attorneys. Even if the offer seems tempting, the insurance company is likely trying to settle for less than you deserve.
- Consult with Uber Accident Lawyers In West Covina – Seek advice from experienced Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law, specializing in rideshare-related cases. Ask about their track record with clients who were rideshare passengers, those who collided with rideshares, or both.
While hiring the right Uber accident lawyers might seem challenging, you must understand that the insurance company is working diligently to minimize their payout. Having experienced Uber accident lawyers at Arash Law who are familiar with California laws and local laws in West Covina on your side can provide the necessary protection and ensure you receive fair compensation for your accident-related expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have a legal right to file a lawsuit against a rideshare company?
In some situations, taking legal action against the rideshare company could be a possible route. This might be relevant if the company’s carelessness or lack of safety measures played a role in the accident or if the driver was considered an employee of the rideshare company. It’s important to talk to legal experts like our West Covina Uber accident attorneys, who focus on rideshare accidents, to understand if pursuing a lawsuit is a feasible option in your case.
Can I still pursue a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, you can still pursue a claim even if you bear some responsibility for the rideshare accident. The compensation you receive will be adjusted according to comparative negligence laws, which consider your level of fault. Your Uber accident lawyers in West Covina will help you understand how shared responsibility might affect your claim.
Should I accept the insurance company's settlement offer?
Before deciding on an insurance company’s settlement offer, it’s wise to consult with Uber accident lawyers in West Covina. The settlements proposed by insurance companies may not fully address what you’re rightfully entitled to. Uber accident attorneys with experience in rideshare accidents can evaluate the fairness of the offer and skillfully negotiate for a fair and equitable resolution.
How long does a rideshare accident claim take to resolve?
The time it takes to sort out a rideshare accident claim can vary. It depends on how complicated your case is, how severe your injuries are, and whether everyone involved is willing to agree on a solution. Some cases can be resolved quickly through negotiations within a few months. But if things are more complicated, it might take longer and involve legal proceedings. Your Uber accident attorneys at Arash Law will give you a realistic idea of how long it might take based on the details of your situation.
How much will it cost to hire West Covina Uber Accident Lawyers?
At Arash Law, we operate on a payment system called contingency fees for rideshare accident cases. This means our fee depends on us successfully securing a settlement or judgment for you. Plus, we provide free initial consultations without any upfront costs. We aim to ensure that people dealing with rideshare accidents can quickly and affordably get top-notch legal help.
Contract The Premier West Covina Uber Accident Lawyers at Arash Law Today!
Dealing with the complexities of Uber’s policies, rules, and restrictions can worsen the stress of a car accident. Don’t attempt to handle these difficult claims alone. At Arash Law, we understand the challenges and uncertainties that follow an accident, and we’re here to make the process as seamless as possible for you. From start to finish, our team will assist you. Contact Uber accident lawyers in West Covina to explore our firm’s services.
Our West Covina attorneys, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., focus on handling various Uber and rideshare claims and work hard to get the best possible results for our clients. Our legal expertise extends to West Covina and neighboring cities such as Valinda, Baldwin Park, West Puente Valley, Covina, La Puente, Avocado Heights, Citrus, South San Jose Hills, Azusa, El Monte, Walnut, Duarte, Hacienda Heights, Charter Oak, and Glendora. Wherever you are in West Covina, our Uber accident lawyers provide reliable support 24/7.
Choosing Arash Law for your Uber accident claim allows you to focus on recovery while we advocate for your interests. The attainment of over $500 million in compensation for our clients is a testament to our exceptional legal proficiency.
Reach out to us for confidential answers to your legal queries at 888-488-1391. Your call is private, and our team is prepared to take action on your behalf. Your peace of mind is our priority, and we’re here for you every step of the way.
