Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft have undoubtedly transformed how we travel. With a few taps on your phone, a reliable driver arrives at your doorstep, eliminating the need for taxis or navigating unfamiliar streets.
Fontana, California, boasts a thriving community and easy access to surrounding areas. Navigating the city can be convenient, especially with ride-sharing services like Uber. However, even routine Uber rides can take an unexpected turn, leaving you injured and facing legal challenges.
If you’ve been injured in a Fontana Uber accident, Krasney Law Accident Attorneys can help. We understand the intricacies of these cases and are dedicated to protecting the legal rights of Fontana residents like you.
Our experienced Fontana car accident attorneys will guide you through the legal process and fight for the fair compensation you deserve. Contact Krasney Law today for a free consultation.
Uber Accidents Can Be Complex
While Uber has revolutionized transportation, accidents involving Uber vehicles can be surprisingly complex, especially compared to traditional car accidents. Understanding the unique legal landscape and navigating the claims process can be challenging, leaving you overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps.
Why are Uber Accidents Complex?
Several factors contribute to the complexity of Uber accidents:
- Determining Liability: Depending on the specific circumstances of the accident – whether the Uber driver was en route to pick up a passenger, had a passenger in the car, or was simply logged into the app while off-duty – different liability rules and insurance coverage may apply.
- Multiple Insurance Policies: Uber maintains insurance policies that might cover passengers and third parties in different scenarios. Additionally, the driver’s insurance and the other involved party’s insurance might also play a role, making it crucial to determine which policy applies and how they interact.
- Understanding Uber’s Terms of Service: The specific terms and conditions outlined in Uber’s user agreement can impact your claim and rights.
California’s Uber Insurance Requirements:
It’s essential to understand the minimum insurance coverage Uber is required to maintain in California:
- $1 million in liability coverage per accident covers injuries or damage caused to passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians.
- $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury covers medical expenses and other damages for injured individuals.
- $25,000 for property damage: This covers damage to vehicles and other property involved in the accident.
Consulting with an experienced Fontana Uber accident attorney is vital to understanding your case and navigating the legal complexities effectively.
Do Certain Lawyers Focus on Uber Accidents?
While many personal injury (PI) lawyers handle car accidents, navigating the complexities of an Uber accident can benefit significantly from the expertise of an attorney specializing in these specific cases. Here’s why:
Unique Legal Landscape
Uber accidents involve a unique mix of factors, including multiple insurance policies, Uber’s Terms of Service, and shared liability.
Specialized Knowledge and Experience:
Lawyers specializing in Uber accidents:
- Possess an in-depth understanding of the legal framework surrounding rideshare accidents, including relevant laws and regulations.
- Stay up-to-date on changes in Uber’s policies and how they affect claims.
- Have extensive experience handling similar cases, leading to a proven track record of success in securing fair compensation for clients.
Krasney Law Accident Attorneys in Fontana, California:
At Krasney Law, we have a team of experienced attorneys dedicated to handling Uber accident cases. We understand the complexities involved and are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve after an accident. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.
How Common Are Uber Accidents in Fontana?
A 2019 National Bureau of Economic Research study revealed that ride-sharing accidents increased by 13.1% compared to traditional taxi accidents between 2011 and 2017. This rise, coupled with Fontana’s growing population and reliance on ride-sharing services, suggests a potential increase in Uber accidents within the city.
Here are some key takeaways from the Uber US Safety Report:
- Overall motor vehicle fatalities: From 2017 to 2020, the national fatality rate increased by 6%, and Uber-related fatalities followed a similar pattern, increasing by 7% during the same period.
- Uber compared to the national average: The fatality rate connected to the Uber platform in 2019 and 2020 is about half the national average.
- Risky driving behavior: In 2019-2020, half of Uber-related fatalities involved at least one risky driving behavior, with 94% attributable to third-party drivers. While there was an increase in risky driving by third parties, these trends were not evident among drivers using the Uber app.
- Breakdown of contributing factors:
- Speeding: Involved in 32% of fatalities.
- Alcohol impairment: Involved in 23% of fatalities, all attributed to third-party drivers.
- Wrong-way driving: Involved in 15% of fatalities, all attributed to third-party drivers.
- Unbuckled occupants: Involved in 13% of fatalities for third-party drivers and 15% for Uber users.
- Vulnerable road users: 42% of fatalities involved vulnerable road users, including pedestrians (64%), third-party motorcyclists (29%), and bicyclists/scooter riders (7%).
- Locations of pedestrian fatalities: Most pedestrian fatalities occurred on larger roads like interstates and principal arterial roads, not at crosswalks or intersections.
Is The Driver Personally Liable or Is Uber Liable After An Accident?
Determining who is liable after an Uber accident in Fontana, California, can be complex and depends on the case’s specific circumstances. Unlike traditional car accidents, Uber accidents involve a multi-layered insurance framework and specific legal considerations based on the stage of the Uber ride when the accident occurred.
Driver Logged In, No Passenger:
- If the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request and causes an accident, their insurance is likely the primary source of coverage.
En Route to Pick Up Passenger:
- During this stage, if the driver causes an accident, Uber’s commercial insurance policy typically provides primary coverage, with the driver’s insurance acting as secondary coverage if needed.
Passenger in the Vehicle:
- When a passenger is present during the accident, Uber’s commercial insurance policy of $1 million per accident covers injuries to passengers and third parties (other drivers, pedestrians, etc.). Depending on the circumstances, the driver’s insurance may also come into play.
California Law Considerations:
- California follows a “strict liability” law, which does not apply to Uber accidents. Liability is determined based on the specific facts of the case.
- Shared liability may be applicable in certain situations, meaning the Uber driver and another party could be found partially at fault for the accident.
What Types of Compensation Are Available After The Accident?
After a Fontana Uber accident, depending on the severity of your injuries and the specific circumstances of the case, you may be eligible for various types of compensation:
- Medical expenses: This covers past and future medical bills associated with your injuries, including hospital stays, doctor visits, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for lost income.
- Pain and suffering: This covers physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by the accident.
- Property damage: If your personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover the cost of repairs or replacements.
Consulting with an experienced Uber accident attorney can help you understand what type of compensation you may be entitled to and guide you through the claims process.
What is the Process of Filing a Claim in an Uber Accident In California?
The process of filing a claim after an Uber accident in California can vary depending on who was involved and the specific circumstances. Here’s a simplified overview of the steps involved in three common scenarios:
Scenario 1: You Were Driving and Were Hit By an Uber Driver
- Gather Information: Exchange contact information with the Uber driver, including their name, insurance company, and policy number. Note down the details of the accident, including the date, time, location, and any witnesses.
- Report the Accident: File a police report and obtain a copy for your records.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: File a claim with your insurance company, regardless of fault. They will investigate the accident and handle communication with the other party’s insurance company.
- Consult with a Lawyer: Consider seeking legal advice from an attorney specializing in Uber accidents. They can guide you through the legal complexities and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Scenario 2: You Were a Passenger in an Uber. You were in an accident, which was the Uber driver’s fault.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you are injured, immediately seek medical attention and document your injuries with medical records.
- Report the Accident to Uber: Report the accident to Uber through their app or website.
- File a Claim with Uber’s Insurance: Uber maintains insurance policies that may cover passengers in case of accidents. File a claim directly with Uber’s insurance provider.
- Consider Legal Counsel: Consulting with a lawyer specializing in Uber accidents is recommended, depending on the severity of your injuries and the case’s complexity. They can help you navigate the claims process and fight for maximum compensation.
Scenario 3: You Were Hit as a Pedestrian or Bicyclist by an Uber Driver
- Seek Medical Attention: If you are injured, prioritize medical attention and document your injuries.
- Gather Information: If possible, obtain contact information from the Uber driver, witnesses, and other parties involved in the accident.
- File a Police Report: File a police report to document the incident.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: If you have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, it can help cover initial medical expenses. File a claim with your insurance company.
- Explore Legal Options: Considering the complexities of navigating third-party claims, consulting with a qualified lawyer specializing in Uber accidents is highly recommended. They can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Fontana, California Rideshare Attorneys
If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident in Fontana, California, you don’t have to navigate the legal complexities alone. At Krasney Law Accident Attorneys, we understand the unique challenges associated with rideshare accidents. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
Our team possesses extensive knowledge and a proven track record of successfully handling Uber accident cases. We offer compassionate and personalized legal representation, working tirelessly to understand your specific situation and fight for your best interests every step of the way.
Don’t hesitate to contact Krasney Law Accident Attorneys today for a free consultation. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you deserve after a life-altering event. Let us fight for you.