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The moment you get into an Uber in Los Angeles, you put your trust in the driver to safely transport you to your destination. However, vehicle crashes can happen unexpectedly. If you are involved in an Uber accident, Arash Law, founded by the esteemed attorney Arash Khorsandi, Esq., will guide you in navigating the aftermath and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
You must recognize the essential actions you need to take after an accident, the difficulties of dealing with insurance companies, and the factors to make your claim successful. From the initial impact to pursuing a claim, we will guide you through every step of the process. Our team of experienced and highly skilled Los Angeles Uber accident lawyers can provide valuable insights and expert advice on properly handling your case involving the ridesharing company.
If an Uber crash in Los Angeles left you overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next, you can count on our legal team at Arash Law. With over $500 Million recovered for our clients over the decades, we have helped many Uber accident victims throughout California successfully claim compensation.
Uber Accident Statistics in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the busiest cities in the world, with millions of people relying on Uber for their transportation needs. In 2020, the San Francisco County Transportation Authority reported that more than 110 million trips were made by transportation network companies (TNCs) such as Uber in Los Angeles. In fact, the county has the most trips in California.
Unfortunately, this also increases the likelihood of crashes. The data provided by the SFCTA show there have been 16 Uber incidents per 100,000 trips in Los Angeles from September 2019 to August 2020. These incidents range from collisions to DUI complaints, resulting in injuries or even fatalities.
Understanding the frequency and severity of Uber collisions in Los Angeles is crucial for anyone using the service. By being aware of the risks, you can take precautions to minimize the likelihood of being involved in an accident and ensure you are prepared if one does occur.
What to Do Immediately After An Uber Accident
What happens if your Uber gets involved in a crash? What can you do after going through such an accident? These questions can flood your mind and leave you overwhelmed and confused. Nevertheless, remaining calm is essential to take the necessary actions to protect yourself and your rights. You can proceed by following these steps:
Move to A Safe Location and Seek Medical Treatment
First, if possible, you must move to a safe location to avoid further collisions and injuries. Next, check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. It is important to guarantee your safety and those of others.
Afterward, contact the emergency services. Even if you don’t think you are seriously injured, seeking medical evaluation is still advisable. Whiplash and internal injuries, for instance, may not be immediately apparent but can have long-term consequences if left untreated.
Document Your Injuries and Keep All Medical Records
When seeking medical treatment, it’s crucial to document your injuries thoroughly. This documentation will serve as evidence of the extent of your damages and the medical expenses you have incurred.
Provide your healthcare provider with a detailed description of how the accident occurred and any symptoms or pain you are experiencing. This will help ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Keep copies of all medical records, including diagnoses, treatment plans, and prescriptions. These records will be valuable evidence when pursuing a claim or negotiating a settlement.
Remember, your health and well-being should always be your top priority. Seek medical treatment promptly and follow your healthcare provider’s advice for a full recovery.
Gather Evidence by Documenting The Accident Scene
After ensuring everyone’s safety and reporting the accident, gathering evidence to support your claim is crucial. This evidence will play a vital role in determining liability and the extent of your injuries, ultimately impacting the compensation you may be entitled to.
Document the scene of the accident by taking pictures and videos of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any visible damage. This visual evidence can help establish the circumstances of the accident and support your version of events.
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 crash, and witnesses willing to make a statement. Additionally, get the insurance information of the Uber driver and any other drivers involved in the crash.
Remember, the more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be. Take the time to gather as much information as possible, as it can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
Report The Accident to Uber and The Authorities
Once you have taken the necessary steps to ensure your safety and gather evidence, you must report the collision to Uber and the appropriate authorities.
Contact the local police department and provide them with accurate and detailed information about the accident. An official incident record can be valuable for insurance purposes or if you decide to pursue legal action.
Refrain from talking to insurance companies or representatives from Uber, as these large businesses seek to avoid huge payouts. Remember to state only what is already in the official police report and keep any information you give limited to your basic contact details.
To report the collision, open the Uber app and go to the “Trips” section. Find the trip during which the accident occurred and select “Report an Issue.” From there, follow the prompts to provide details about the accident. Uber will then initiate an investigation and guide you through the claims process.
By reporting the collision to both Uber and the authorities, you ensure all necessary parties are informed and involved in the process. This will help streamline the claims process and ensure your rights are protected.
Contact A Personal Injury Attorney Specializing in Uber Accidents
After completing these tasks, contact an experienced Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer since dealing with the aftermath can be complex and overwhelming. Navigating insurance claims, negotiations, and potential legal action requires knowledge and expertise in personal injury law.
Look for someone with a proven track record of successfully handling Uber accident cases. They deeply understand the complexities of personal injury law and the nuances of dealing with Uber and their insurance company.
You can contact Arash Khorsandi, Esq.’s team at Arash Law to discuss the steps needed to achieve financial recovery. They have the experience and skills necessary to guide you through the process and safeguard your rights.
Understanding Insurance Coverage for Uber Accidents in Los Angeles
One of the most crucial aspects of handling an Uber accident in Los Angeles is understanding the insurance coverage available to you. Based on the California Assembly Bill 2293 enacted in 2015, Uber provides insurance coverage for their drivers, but the amount of coverage can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the crash.
Uber’s insurance coverage can be divided into three periods:
- Period 1: The driver is online and waiting for a passenger request.
- Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger.
- Period 3: The passenger is in the vehicle, and the driver is transporting them to their destination.
During Period 1, Uber provides limited liability coverage for accidents caused by their drivers, but only if the driver’s personal auto insurance does not cover the accident. The coverage limits during this period are lower compared to Periods 2 and 3:
- $50,000 per individual
- $100,000 per accident
- $30,000 for property damage
During Periods 2 and 3, Uber provides higher liability coverage and coverage for physical damage to the vehicle. This extends to the driver and the passengers involved in the accident. In both periods, Uber provides drivers with:
- $1 million in commercial auto insurance
- $1 million in uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage
Our personal injury attorneys specializing in Uber collisions can help you understand the specifics of Uber’s insurance coverage.
Filing A Claim with Uber’s Insurance Company
To pursue a settlement for your injuries and damages, you need to file a claim with Uber’s insurance company. If you are wondering how to make a claim, you can follow this two-step process:
- First, gather all your collected documentation, including medical records, accident photos, and witness statements. Compile a comprehensive file that clearly outlines the details of the crash, the extent of your injuries, and any other damages you have suffered.
- Next, contact Uber’s insurance company and inform them of the crash. Provide them with the necessary information, including the date and time of the accident, the Uber driver’s name, and any police report or medical records you have.
Once your claim is filed, the insurance company will begin its investigation. They may request additional information or documentation to support your claim. Working closely with your personal injury attorney throughout this endeavor is essential to keep your rights protected.
Negotiating A Fair Settlement with Uber’s Insurance Company
After filing a claim with Uber’s insurance company, the next step is negotiating a fair settlement. The insurance company may offer an initial amount, but it’s important to remember that their primary goal is to minimize their financial liability.
To ensure you receive fair compensation, working with your personal injury attorney in negotiating with the insurance company is advisable. They have the knowledge to navigate the negotiation process and advocate for your best interests.
During negotiations, your Uber accident attorney will present the evidence and documentation gathered to support your claim. They will argue for the maximum compensation you are entitled to based on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and any other damages you have suffered.
Remember, negotiations can be lengthy and complex. It’s vital to have patience and trust in your attorney’s expertise. They will work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries and damages.
Going to Court – What to Expect in An Uber Accident Lawsuit
In some cases, reaching a fair settlement with Uber’s insurance company may not be possible. If this occurs, you may need to pursue legal action by filing a lawsuit. Going to court can be daunting, but with the right legal representation, you can confidently navigate the process.
If you decide to file a lawsuit, your personal injury attorney will guide you through each step. They will file the necessary legal documents, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Once the lawsuit is filed, both parties will engage in the investigation, where evidence is exchanged. This may involve depositions, interrogatories, and requests for documents. Your attorney will represent you throughout this process and safeguard your rights.
In many cases, lawsuits are settled before going to trial. The insurance company may be more willing to negotiate a fair settlement once they see the strength of your case. However, your attorney will prepare your case for trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Compensation for Uber Accident Victims in Los Angeles
The compensation you may be entitled to as an Uber crash victim in Los Angeles can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the accident and the severity of your injuries. However, you may be eligible to receive several types of compensation.
- Medical expenses: This includes all costs related to your medical treatment, including hospital bills, doctor visits, prescription medications, chiropractic care, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the wages you lost during your recovery.
- Pain and suffering: This type of compensation is awarded for the physical and emotional pain you endured due to the accident and your injuries.
- Property damage: If your personal property, such as your vehicle or personal belongings, were damaged in the collision, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement done by an autobody repair shop.
- Punitive damages: In some cases, the court may award punitive damages if the Uber driver’s actions were determined to be particularly reckless or negligent.
It is vital to consult a personal injury attorney specializing in Uber accidents to calculate the damages you may be entitled to. They will thoroughly evaluate your case, consider all factors, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Preventing Uber Accidents – Tips for Staying Safe as A Passenger
While collisions can happen at any time, there are steps you can take to minimize the likelihood of being involved in an Uber accident as a passenger. By following these tips, you can guarantee your safety and peace of mind:
- Choose a reputable Uber driver: Before requesting a ride, take the time to check the driver’s ratings and read the reviews. Choose a driver with a high rating and positive feedback from other passengers.
- Wear your seatbelt: Always buckle up when riding in an Uber vehicle. Seatbelts significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
- Avoid distractions: While in the Uber vehicle, refrain from using your phone or engaging in other distracting activities. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe during the ride, trust your instincts and ask the driver to pull over in a safe location. If necessary, contact the authorities or Uber support for assistance.
- Plan your route in advance: Before getting into the Uber vehicle, familiarize yourself with the route to your destination. This will help you stay aware of the driver’s chosen route and ensure you are being taken to the correct location.
Remember, your safety should always be your top priority. Following these tips can help minimize the risk of being involved in an Uber accident and ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
Empower Yourself With The Best Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyer
Being involved in an Uber collision can be traumatic, but knowing how to navigate the aftermath and protect your rights is essential. By retaining the best Uber accident lawyer in Los Angeles, you can trust you will receive the compensation you deserve.
Remember, you have the right to seek financial recovery for your injuries, and with the proper support, you can achieve a fair and just outcome. You can count on the team led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq. at Arash Law. Our experienced Uber accident lawyers have won over $500 Million in compensation for our clients in California.
Whether you reside in Alhambra, Glendale, Huntington Park, Pasadena, Vernon, West Hollywood, or anywhere in Los Angeles County, we can swiftly connect you with our legal team without needing upfront bills and fees. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are committed to ensuring you receive medical attention and legal care.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 to seek justice and fair compensation today, or complete our “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule a free consultation.
