Rideshare apps are one of the most popular forms of transportation in California, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Apps like Uber are extremely convenient and they can help people save time and money on a daily basis. However, the laws surrounding ridesharing apps are constantly changing, so all users should be aware of what happens if they are involved in an Uber accident in Los Angeles.
Services like Uber are relatively new, so personal injury claims involving these apps tend to be complicated. In addition to the elements that affect all car accidents, legal advisors need to focus on small details, evaluate log-in times, and even mediate with the insurance companies involved.
At California Personal Injury Attorneys, our team of experienced lawyers specializes in Uber accidents in Los Angeles. Over the last 5 years, we have represented numerous clients that were involved in accidents while using the rideshare app and helped them receive fair compensation for the damages incurred. If you want to learn more about working with CPIA, contact us today and schedule a free consultation with our team of advisors.
Table of Contents
- What is Uber?
- Benefits of Using Ridesharing Apps
- Uber Accident Statistics
- Common Causes of Uber Accidents
- What Happens When You are Involved in an Uber Accident?
- Who Covers the Cost of an Uber Accident?
- Determining Who is Responsible for the Uber Accident
- Sustaining Injuries During an Uber Accident
- Compensation Available for Uber Accident Victims
- Safety Tips to Prevent Uber Accidents
- For Drivers
- For Passengers
- For Other Parties
- Why Choose California Personal Injury Attorney for Uber Accident Claims?
What Is Uber?
Uber is one of the many rideshare companies that are classified as transportation network companies (TNCs) in the state of California. These companies became popular because they are practical and usually offer lower rates than conventional limousine or taxi services.
An Uber driver is fundamentally different from a conventional taxi driver because he or she:
- Is not required to accept all requests
- Drives his or her own car
- Does not drive a car with obvious markings
- Sets his or her own schedule
Furthermore, Uber is among the most lucrative TNCs and employs millions of employees worldwide. This also means that millions of passengers, pedestrians, and drivers are involved in Uber accidents every year.
Benefits of Using Ridesharing Apps
As any California Uber user knows, rideshare apps are easy to use and more affordable than conventional cab services. Additional benefits of using rideshare apps like Uber include:
- Cashless payments, which makes each ride a seamless transaction
- Vehicles are generally new models and in good condition
- Has thousands of drivers in large cities like Los Angeles, Longbeach and Glendale
- Passenger and driver rating system for transparency
- Available at any hour
- Allows scheduling
- Accommodates large groups
- Deluxe options available
- A suitable alternative for inter-city travel
- Offers more security than taxis that do not leave a record
- Includes safety features
In addition to the above, Uber also provides insurance for anyone involved in an accident while using the rideshare app, as long as certain criteria are met.
Uber Accident Statistics
Rideshare apps are regarded as safe, especially due to the fact that drivers make their own schedule, which means that there is a low chance of experiencing work-related burnout. A 2017 study proposed that Uber may be related to the decrease in DUI-related deaths in areas that now use rideshare apps. While this study implies that apps like Uber are making the roads safer in certain aspects, rideshare vehicles are also involved in accidents.
Despite the fact that there are no statistics in any official government publications, a recent study found that the use of Uber and other rideshare rides may increase accident rates by up to 3%. Even though the results may not be fatal, people involved in an Uber accident need to ensure their medical expenses and other bills are covered by the responsible party.
Common Causes of Uber Accidents
As with any other method of transportation, there are many factors that can lead to an Uber accident. It is common for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to suffer a personal injury during the collision, so having a reliable attorney is crucial to the success of your recovery.
Common causes of Uber accidents include:
- Driving over the speed limit
- Not paying attention to the road
- Erratic driving
- Disobeying traffic regulations
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or regulated substances
If you have been involved in an Uber accident in California, your first priority should be to contact a law firm that has experience handling these types of claims.
What Happens When You Are Involved in an Uber Accident?
As with taxis, limousines, and other modes of transport, people that use Uber put their safety in the hands of the driver. Folks involved in an Uber accident need to find a reliable lawyer that can investigate the collision, determine the responsible party, and hold them accountable for their actions.
If your Uber driver was being negligent at the time of the collision, you may be able to claim compensation by suing him or her for damages. During your initial consultation and throughout the duration of your claim, your CPIA attorney can help by:
- Listening to you and ensuring that you have a solid case
- Interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence
- Preparing all paperwork and handling all legal matters pertaining to the accident
- Determining how much compensation you are entitled to
If you have been hurt in an Uber accident, you definitely have recourse for your damages. You may be able to claim for medical expenses, which includes medical bills for follow-up treatments and therapy, as well as compensation for diminished capacity to earn a living, if you’ve sustained serious injuries in the accident.
Injuries from an Uber accident can range from mild to severe. Our team of attorneys works relentlessly to ensure that you have the resources necessary to cover your treatment and give you the peace of mind to focus solely on your recovery.
Who Covers the Cost of an Uber Accident?
If you are involved in a regular auto collision, there are usually two insurance companies involved, namely your own insurance company and the other party’s insurance provider. However, in an Uber accident, you usually have to mediate between the rideshare app’s insurance as well as the insurance provider for any other party involved. This can make things significantly more complicated.
There are many factors that will help determine who will cover what damages. For instance, Uber drivers that are not logged into the app or waiting for a new ride will not be able to file a claim through the company’s insurance provider.
People using the service and third parties that are injured during the course of a ride are often entitled to compensation, so working with an attorney that knows the ins-and-outs of the legal system is imperative for the success of your claim.
Determining Who is Responsible for the Uber Accident
Identifying the responsible party is complicated in most car accident cases and Uber collisions are no exception. Thanks to recent changes in California’s legislature, Uber drivers are now considered employees, so people using the app can claim compensation from the company. Although Uber drivers are required to maintain insurance on their own vehicles, Uber’s own insurance kicks in as soon as the driver logs on to the app.
Furthermore, if the collision was due to the driver's negligence or misconduct, you may be able to file a claim directly against the driver.
Uber drivers and other parties involved in a collision need to work with a seasoned accident lawyer to help them determine the culprit and hold the right party accountable.
Sustaining Injuries During an Uber Accident
If you or a loved one has sustained injuries while using a rideshare app, you should contact a legal advisor immediately. Injuries caused by auto collisions can manifest weeks or months later. These can affect all areas of the body, including your core organs, extremities, and the brain.
Working with an experienced Uber accident attorney can help you cover the expenses that result from an accident, so contact the legal experts at CPIA today.
Compensation Available for Uber Accident Victims
Depending on how serious the accident is and the injuries sustained, people involved in an Uber accident may be able to file a claim with different insurance companies. Insurance coverage may help pay for current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of property, and other damages.
One of the most important elements that will affect the outcome of your case is your lawyer’s expertise. Always make sure that you work with a qualified attorney that has a proven track record with similar cases.
Safety Tips to Prevent Uber Accidents
Accidents occur every day, but the number of collisions can be dramatically reduced if we follow safety precautions. Here are some safety tips to help decrease the chances of being involved in an Uber accident:
For Drivers
Drivers need to avoid distractions, follow traffic regulations, and always keep their passengers’ well-being and their own safety in mind. This is the best way to reduce the odds of a collision and potentially hurting others.
For Passengers
Passengers should be wary of their drivers and report any erratic behavior or otherwise negative behavior to Uber immediately.
Why Choose California Personal Injury Attorney for Uber Accident Claims?
At CPIA, we specialize in helping people that have incurred personal injuries while using rideshare apps. Our team of accident attorneys has decades of combined experience and we have helped numerous Uber accident victims receive compensation for the damages caused.
To learn more about our legal team, contact us and book a free consultation today.
