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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 can guide you in navigating the claims process and assist you in pursuing compensation for your injuries and losses.
It is important to understand the steps to take after an accident, the challenges of dealing with insurance companies, and the factors that may affect your claim. From the initial impact to pursuing a claim, we will guide you through every step of the process. Our team of experienced Los Angeles Uber accident lawyers can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions about your case involving the ridesharing company.
If an Uber crash in Los Angeles left you overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next, speak with our legal team at Arash Law. We have helped Uber accident victims throughout California pursue legal claims against liable parties.
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 shows 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 risk of being involved in an accident and help prepare for it if one does occur.
What To Do After An Uber Accident
Remaining calm is essential to take the necessary actions to protect yourself and your rights. You may consider taking the following steps:
- Move to a Safe Location and Seek Medical Treatment — First, if possible, 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 check your safety and that of others.
Afterward, contact the emergency services. Even if you don’t think you are seriously injured, seeking medical evaluation is important. 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 can serve as evidence of the extent of your damages and the medical expenses you have incurred.
Present to your health provider a detailed description of how the accident occurred and any symptoms or pain you are experiencing. This will help facilitate 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 be your priority. Seek medical treatment promptly and follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
- Gather Evidence by Documenting the Accident Scene — Gather evidence to support your claim. This evidence can play a vital role in determining liability and the extent of your injuries, which can impact the outcome of your case.
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 obtain 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.
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 — 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.
It’s generally advisable to refrain from talking to insurance companies or representatives from Uber. 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 help keep all necessary parties informed and involved in the process. This can help streamline the claims process and protect your ability to seek compensation.
- Contact an Uber Accident Lawyer — Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be complex and overwhelming. Our Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer can guide you through the process of navigating insurance claims, negotiations, and potential legal action.
We understand the complexities of personal injury law and the nuances of dealing with Uber and its insurance company. Our accident lawyers can discuss the steps in pursuing a claim and explore your legal options. We are committed to advocating for your rights both in and out of court.
Understanding Insurance Coverage For Uber Accidents In Los Angeles
One important aspect 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 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:
- Up to $1 million in commercial auto insurance.
- Up to $1 million in uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
Our personal injury attorneys 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 with your personal injury attorney throughout the process can help protect your rights.
Settlement Negotiation With Uber’s Insurance Company
After filing a claim with Uber’s insurance company, the next step is typically negotiating a settlement. The insurance company may offer an initial amount that may not be enough to cover all your damages. Our Los Angeles Uber accident lawyers can assess your injuries and losses and review settlement offers on your behalf.
During negotiations, we will present the evidence and documentation gathered to support your claim. We are focused on helping you pursue compensation based on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and any other losses you have suffered.
Remember, negotiations can be lengthy and complex. It’s important to remain patient and allow your attorney to handle the legal matters on your behalf, especially if you are still recovering from your injuries. They will advocate for a settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries and damages.
Going To Court — What To Expect In An Uber Accident Lawsuit
In some cases, a settlement with Uber’s insurance company may not be reached. If this happens, you may need to file a lawsuit. Legal representation can help guide you through the court process.
If you decide to file a lawsuit, your personal injury attorney will help you file the necessary legal documents, gather evidence, and build a well-documented 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 advocate for your rights.
Available Compensation For Uber Accident Victims In Los Angeles
The compensation in an Uber accident case can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the accident and the severity of your injuries. However, you may be eligible to seek several types of compensation.
- Medical Expenses — This includes 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 able to include lost wages during your recovery as part of your claim.
- Pain and Suffering — This type of compensation covers 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, was damaged in the collision, you may be able to seek compensation for repairs or replacement done by an autobody repair shop.
- Punitive Damages — In rare cases, the court may award punitive damages if the Uber driver’s actions were determined to be particularly reckless or grossly negligent.
Our Los Angeles Uber accident lawyers can help assess your potential damages and calculate the value of your claim. We will thoroughly evaluate your case, consider all relevant factors, and provide personalized assistance throughout the process.
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. Below are some tips you can follow when using rideshare services:
- Carefully Select Your 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 can help 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.
- Listen to Your Instincts — If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe during the ride, follow 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 can help you stay aware of the driver’s chosen route and verify if you are being taken to the correct location.
Remember to prioritize your safety. Following these tips can help minimize the risk of being involved in an Uber accident and contribute to a safe and enjoyable ride.
Consult With Our Uber Accident Attorneys In Los Angeles
Being involved in an Uber collision can be traumatic, but knowing how to navigate the aftermath and protect your rights is essential. Our Los Angeles Uber accident lawyers can help you hold negligent parties accountable for the damages you incur.
If you were injured in an Uber accident, you may have a right to seek compensation for your injuries and other related losses. At Arash Law, our lawyers work diligently to pursue a favorable outcome for your case. We have the resources and experience to handle complex cases, including rideshare claims.
Our team handles a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, rideshare collisions, dog bites, and workers’ compensation claims. Whether you reside in Alhambra, Glendale, Huntington Park, Pasadena, Vernon, West Hollywood, or anywhere in Los Angeles County, we can connect you with our legal team. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. Please note that case-related costs may still apply regardless of the outcome. We are committed to helping you access legal support and medical attention.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 to understand your legal options, or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form here to schedule a free initial consultation.
