If you have been injured in an accident and an Uber vehicle was involved, call the Law Offices of Steers & Associates (Uber accident attorney Los Angeles) today for a free consultation. Our personal injury law firm has recovered millions of dollars for injured accident victims in the greater Los Angeles and Southern California area. 

You need an Uber accident attorney that is skilled and experienced in the law surrounding rideshare accidents. An Uber accident attorney is ready to help you recover. Read on to learn more about the unique circumstances around Uber accidents, accidents involving independent contractors, and how a Los Angeles Uber accident attorney can help you hold the at fault driver accountable.

If you’ve been involved in an accident while riding in an Uber, it’s important to understand your rights and options. Here’s what you need to know:

What Is Uber?

Currently, most people in California know what Uber is, however, you may still be wondering how the personal injury process works when you’re involved in an Uber accident. Not everyone has used transportation network companies and plenty of people have no idea what it means to be involved in a Los Angeles Uber accident.

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Injured in an Uber accident? Here’s your step by step on what to do next.

In California, Uber is known as a Transportation Network Company (TNC). As a TNC, Uber was required to obtain special licenses from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).

How Uber works:

  • For passengers: Passengers open the Uber app on their smartphone and select a destination and pick up point. A nearby driver responds to the request for pickup, and usually, within minutes the ride arrives and picks up the passengers and transports them to their destination.
  • For drivers: Drivers turn on their app to pick up a passenger. They respond to passenger requests by accepting their ride and pick up the passengers and take them to where they need to go. Uber drivers will use their own vehicle to pick up a passenger.

As your Uber accident attorney team, we understand the unique nuances of driving for Uber and how it affects the accident victims involved. Uber accidents are different from accidents involving standard passenger vehicles, so you need an accident attorney skilled in assisting with Uber accidents specifically.

If you were involved in an Uber accident, call an Uber accident lawyer from our firm to discuss potential financial compensation. Remember, you don’t pay us unless we win.

What Should I Do After Getting Into an Uber Accident in California?

Uber accidents can be life-changing. If you’re involved in an Uber accident, or any kind of rideshare accident, follow these steps to make sure you can make a full recovery and get compensated for any losses:Gray BMW with a crushed bumper

  • Get to safety: Ensure all accident victims are safe and seek medical attention for any injuries.
  • File a police report: Contact the police to report the incident and obtain a police report. Uber accidents must be reported just like you’d report any other motor vehicle crash.
  • Exchange contact information: Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver involved in the accident.
  • Get evidence and document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any injuries.
  • Collect information: Gather contact information from any witnesses to the accident.
  • Hire an Uber accident lawyer: Consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. They are here to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
  • Notify your insurer: Inform your insurance provider about the accident and follow their specific guidelines.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the necessary evidence to build a strong case if necessary.

Who Can File A Personal Injury or Insurance Claim After An Uber Accident?

Anyone who was injured due to someone’s negligence has the right to be compensated for those injuries, even after a rideshare accident. For this reason, you need to get in touch with an Uber accident attorney as soon as possible, because you may be eligible for compensation.

A few possibilities include:

  • A driver or passenger injured by an Uber driver who was at fault.
  • A rideshare company driver was injured by another driver.
  • An injured passenger in a rideshare company vehicle, regardless of the at-fault party.

How Do I Know if I’m Eligible to File An Uber or Lyft Accident Case?

If you’ve been in a rideshare car accident with an Uber driver and you’re wondering if you can file a personal injury claim against Uber, there’s only one way to find out. Rideshare accidents can be complex. The insurance matters and determining fault can be difficult, so talking to an Uber accident attorney is wise. Schedule a consultation with an accident attorney today.

In your initial consultation with your Uber accident attorney following the incident, you can expect a detailed conversation about the specifics of your accident. This includes the injuries you sustained and the damage done to your vehicle. Your attorney will also outline the legal process for car accidents, including all the complexities of insurance and liability factors tied to a big rideshare company like Uber or Lyft.

Your lawyer will address potential case strengths and challenges of your Uber or Lyft accident, explain how much money you might receive in your settlement, and answer your questions. If you decide to proceed, they’ll detail their role and the next steps. This consultation will clarify your situation and help you gain insight, will outline your rights, and offer expert advice for what to do next to hold the rideshare company accountable.

Recovering Damages After an Uber Accident

Recovering damages after an Uber accident typically involves the following steps:

1. Gather Evidence

Obtain a copy of the police report from the accident scene. Next, collect all medical records related to your injuries, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans. Take photos of the accident scene, damaged vehicles, and your injuries. Also, get contact information from any witnesses to the accident.

2. Consult With an Attorney

An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights, assess the value of your claim, and navigate the complex legal process. Your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to obtain a fair settlement or represent you in court if necessary.

3. Determine the Type of Damages

These include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and future earning potential. Other non-economic damages are intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement.

4. Calculate the Value of Your Claim

Your attorney can calculate your economic losses based on your medical bills, lost wages, and other financial losses. For non-economic damages, it’s more challenging to quantify these damages; however, your attorney can use various factors to estimate their value, such as the severity of your injuries and the impact on your quality of life.

5. Negotiate with the Insurance Company

Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement that compensates you for your losses. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit to have a jury determine the amount of damages you are entitled to.

6. Receive Compensation

Once a settlement is reached or a judgment is awarded, you will receive compensation for your damages. Remember, the process of recovering damages after an Uber accident can be complex, and it’s essential to have a qualified attorney to guide you through each step.

What Is the Difference Between Uber’s Insurance and Regular Insurance Coverage?

If you’ve been hit by an Uber driver, understanding the insurance landscape is crucial.Man handing out a paper to sign

  • Uber provides liability insurance coverage for accidents while their drivers are transporting passengers.
  • Your own insurance may also play a role if Uber’s insurance cannot cover all of the damages.
  • Underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage and personal injury protection (PIP) can help cover your losses if the Uber driver is underinsured or uninsured.

After an accident, report it to Uber and your insurance company, and consider consulting with a personal injury attorney. For Uber drivers, reviewing your personal insurance and understanding Uber’s coverage can help you be prepared for potential accidents.

Legal Issues in Uber Auto Accidents

Legal issues in Uber auto accidents can be complex and multifaceted. An Uber accident attorney plays a key role here in helping to make these claims. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of some key areas:

Personal Injury Claims

  • Negligence: The most common legal theory used in Uber accident cases is negligence. This involves proving that the driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and that breach caused your injuries.
  • Vicarious liability: Uber may be held vicariously liable for the actions of its drivers, especially if they were acting within the scope of their employment.
  • Comparative negligence: If you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your degree of fault.

Property Damage Claims

  • Vehicle damage: You can seek compensation for damage to your vehicle if it was involved in an Uber accident.
  • Other property damage: If other property, such as personal belongings in your vehicle, was damaged, you may be able to claim compensation.

Wrongful Death Claims

  • If a family member is killed in an Uber accident, surviving family members may be able to claim compensation for loss of companionship, support, and other benefits.
  • Financial losses: These can include loss of income, medical expenses, and funeral costs.

Common Causes of Uber Auto Accidents

Uber auto accidents can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some of the most common ones:

Driver Negligence

  • Distracted driving: Using a mobile phone, eating, or other distractions can impair a driver’s ability to focus on the road.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
  • Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can severely compromise a driver’s judgment and coordination.
  • Fatigue: Driving while tired can lead to decreased alertness and slower reaction times.
  • Aggressive driving: Tailgating, speeding, and other aggressive driving behaviors can increase the risk of accidents.

Vehicle Maintenance Issues

  • Tire problems: Bald tires, low tire pressure, or tire blowouts can contribute to accidents.
  • Brake failure: Faulty brakes can make it difficult to stop in time, leading to collisions.
  • Steering problems: Issues with the steering system can make it difficult to control the vehicle.
  • Engine problems: Engine failure can cause a vehicle to lose power, potentially leading to an accident.

Road Conditions

  • Poor road quality: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and other road defects can contribute to accidents.
  • Slippery roads: Rain, snow, or ice can make roads slippery and increase the risk of skidding.
  • Inadequate lighting: Poor lighting can make it difficult for drivers to see hazards.

Third-Party Negligence

  • Other driver negligence: Negligent driving by other motorists can lead to accidents involving Uber vehicles.
  • Pedestrian negligence: Pedestrians who cross the street without looking or fail to follow traffic signals can contribute to accidents.
  • Bicycle rider negligence: Cyclists who ride recklessly or fail to follow traffic laws can increase the risk of accidents.

Other Factors

  • Vehicle design flaws: In some cases, design defects in the vehicle itself can contribute to accidents.
  • Environmental factors: Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy fog or storms, can increase the risk of accidents.

White car with LED Uber signage inside the windshield

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How People Are Injured In Uber And Lyft Accidents

There are many different ways people can be injured in an Uber accident. Here are just a few:

  • The driver is injured in an accident occurred as a result of someone’s negligence
  • The ridesharing driver is distracted and causes an accident
  • A passenger is injured in an accident in a driver’s vehicle
  • Another vehicle is hit by a vehicle being driven by a ridesharing driver
  • A pedestrian or bicyclist is hit by an rideshare driver

How Can Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyers Help?

An Uber accident lawyer will use various methods to prove your injuries or incurred losses after a car accident. Here’s how:

  • Gather medical evidence: Collaborate with medical professionals to obtain detailed records, diagnostic tests, and expert opinions that document the extent of your injuries.
  • Secure witness statements: Obtain testimonies from witnesses, including medical professionals, who can attest to your condition and the impact of the accident.
  • Build a strong case: Leverage medical records, expert opinions, and witness statements to create a compelling case that demonstrates the link between the Lyft and Uber accident and your injuries.

If you’re involved in a Lyft or Uber accident, consider hiring an Uber accident lawyer to represent your interests and help you seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

What Can I Expect When Working With an Uber Accident Attorney?

A Los Angeles Uber accident attorney can provide essential assistance in recovering from an accident involving a rideshare driver. An accident lawyer specializes in navigating the legal intricacies of Uber accidents. They can assist with investigating Uber accidents, determining liability and fault, and making sure you get the maximum compensation possible from both your insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance.

Our lawyers are skilled negotiators, and will make sure to negotiate if the settlement you’re offered is not sufficient. If you’re in this situation, contact our team Law Office of Steers and Associates for a free initial consultation to discuss your case and receive expert guidance regarding Uber accidents.

Financial Compensation After A Los Angeles Uber Accident

After an Uber and Lyft accident, you might be eligible to receive the financial compensation you deserve for damages. Some of those damages could include:

  • Medical bills for your personal injury case
  • Medical bills reasonably expected to be incurred in the future
  • Lost earnings and wages reasonably expected to be lost in the future
  • Any permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Pain and suffering
  • Wrongful death or loss of a normal life

Dealing with Your Insurance Provider After an Uber or Lyft Accident

If you have been injured or a loved one has been injured or killed in an Uber of Lyft accident, you should speak to an experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer before talking to insurance companies.

Female lawyer talking on the phone while checking her clipboard on the tableAn insurer has one thing in mind, and that is to minimize the amount they spend on compensating you for your injuries. The less an insurance company spends, the more it makes. That is how an insurance provider makes money. The insurance provider covers rideshare drivers by $1 million in liability and in uninsured (UM)/underinsured motorist coverage (UIM).

The insurer covering the company means victims injured in an Uber accident where they are not at fault may be able to be fully compensated for their medical costs, lost income, wrongful death, and pain and suffering. Drivers are covered by this commercial insurance coverage from the moment they accept a passenger request until they have dropped the passenger off at their destination.

The graphic below shows when people are covered by Uber’s car insurer:

How Uber Insurance Works

What is Body Injury Liability Coverage?

Bodily injury liability coverage is a crucial component of personal injury law, as it provides financial compensation for individuals who are injured in Uber accidents due to another person’s negligence. It is a type of car insurance that covers the costs associated with the injured person’s medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.

In the context of personal injury law:

  • Negligence: If a driver is found to be negligent, meaning they failed to exercise reasonable care and caused an accident, their bodily injury liability coverage can be used to compensate the injured parties.
  • Damages: The amount of compensation awarded will depend on the severity of the injuries, the impact on the injured person’s life, and other factors.
  • Legal representation: Personal injury attorneys can help injured individuals navigate the legal process and make sure they receive fair compensation for their injuries.

It’s important to note that bodily injury liability coverage typically may not cover all of your expenses. For this, additional coverage like personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage may be necessary. Talk to your Uber accident lawyer if you have questions.

Contact a Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one were a passenger injured in an accident, contact our Uber and Lyft accident lawyer team today for a free consultation and free case evaluation. The Law Offices of Steers & Associates (Uber accident attorney Los Angeles) has a proven track record of success for clients, and will stop at nothing to ensure your concerns are addressed at every step of your claim. Our rideshare accident lawyer team has recovered millions of dollars of compensation for personal injury and accident victims in Los Angeles, and are just a phone call away if you’ve been involved in a crash with an Uber vehicle.

LAX sign at the airport

Frequently Asked Questions

If you see a question related to an Uber accident that you would like answered here, email our Uber accident lawyers and we will gladly update our FAQ.

Do I Really Need Los Angeles Uber Accident Attorneys?

A personal injury attorney is not needed in each and every case. However, if serious internal injuries were involved in Uber or Lyft accidents, an experienced Lyft accident lawyer will often recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries than you would receive without them. Call our accident attorneys for a free consultation after any personal injury.

Are Passengers Insured With Uber?

Yes. While personal liability insurance is complicated for Uber and Lyft drivers, Uber passengers are covered at all times. However, a driver’s personal insurer will often pay out as little as possible. Speak to an attorney if you have been involved in an Uber and Lyft accident as a passenger.

Have Uber Vehicles Been Involved In Any Fatal Accidents?

Although Uber is an innovative business that seeks to neutralize underutilized vehicles with people who are seeking rides, like everything else in life, Uber and Lyft drivers are imperfect humans and are occasionally involved in Uber accidents. In one case, in San Francisco, a driver struck and killed a six-year-old girl on New Year’s Eve in 2013. Uber settled out of court due to this wrongful death suit.

In a case in Ohio, a driver backed over a woman who inexplicably moved behind the car after an argument with her husband, who had summoned the service.

And in Manhattan, an accident involving an Uber driver ended up with a dead pedestrian and also injured his girlfriend.

Does Uber Do Background Checks?

Uber, like many rideshare companies, runs criminal background checks on all drivers. At times Uber drivers have also been accused of serious criminal behavior, ranging from simple assault to drug dealing, kidnapping, and many others. Here are some of the things that have allegedly happened, starting with Los Angeles, CA before looking at several other cities and states.

What Should I Do if I’m in an Accident as an Uber Driver?

If you’re involved in an accident as an Uber driver, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Here’s what you should do:

  • Safety first: Ensure everyone involved is safe and seek medical attention if necessary.
  • Contact Uber: Inform Uber of the accident and follow their specific guidelines.
  • Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles and any injuries.
  • Gather information: Exchange contact information with the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact an accident attorney: Consult with an experienced accident attorney who specializes in rideshare accident cases. They can help you understand your rights and protect your interests.
  • Preserve evidence: Avoid making any admissions of fault and keep detailed records of all communications related to the accident.

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