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The experienced Fresno Uber accident lawyers at Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer understand the difficulties of filing a rideshare accident claim. With a proven track record of success and millions recovered in settlements and verdicts, we are dedicated to helping you obtain the fair compensation you deserve, allowing you to prioritize what is most important–your recovery.
Schedule a free consultation or call our Fresno offices at (559) 900-3076 at your convenience to learn how we can maximize your Uber or Lyft accident claim.
Why You Need a Fresno Uber/Lyft Accident Attorney
After undergoing an Uber or Lyft accident in Fresno, CA, injured victims must endure more than physical pain and are forced to deal with increasing medical expenses, lost income, and the emotional toll of the event.
Insurance companies will scrutinize every detail to minimize payouts or deny claims entirely. However, an experienced Uber and Lyft accident lawyer who specializes in Uber or Lyft accidents from Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer can:
- Thoroughly Investigate the Rideshare Accident: Identify all liable parties, such as drivers, rideshare companies, car manufacturers, and government entities responsible for maintaining safe road conditions
- Navigate Insurance Complexities: Establish the applicable Uber/Lyft “Period” of insurance coverage to leverage the policy and maximize financial recovery
- Defend Against Comparative Fault Implications: Minimize blame due to California’s personal injury laws that reduce compensation by the victim’s assigned percentage of fault
- Gather Crucial Evidence: Obtain proof of fault through accident reconstruction experts’ analyses, subpoenaing driver app data (e.g., speed, braking patterns), and other valuable evidence
- Handle Communications with the Other Party: Manage negotiations and conversations with rideshare companies, their insurers, and any other involved parties to prevent unfair treatment or denial of claims
- Maximize Settlement or Verdict: Pursue compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, as well as economic damages for any accident-related injuries
Accidents involving Uber and Lyft present unique challenges, such as multiple parties being liable for damages. Insurance policies are complex and will vary depending on the rideshare driver’s status, company terms, and determination of fault.
Experienced Uber and Lyft accident lawyers will ensure fair case proceedings while also alleviating the stresses of filing rideshare accident claims with the insurance company.
Compensation You Can Recover in Uber and Lyft Accident Claims
Like other personal injury cases, sustained financial losses, anticipated expenses, and intangible suffering may be recovered in an Uber or Lyft accident case. This may encompass any of the following damages.
Economic Damages
- Current medical bills
- Future medical expenses
- Loss of earning capacity
- Lost wages and benefits
- Property damage (repair/replacement)
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Non-Economic Damages
- Disfigurement or impairment
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium or companionship
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent or temporary disability
Even a seemingly minor accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver can be challenging to settle, as they often try to minimize insurance claims. Not only is this frustrating, but it puts rideshare accident victims under difficult circumstances, further complicating their financial recovery. Working with an experienced Fresno rideshare accident lawyer increases the chances of recovering fair compensation.
Common Types of Injuries From Lyft and Uber Accidents
Rideshare accidents can lead to injuries ranging from minor to severe. Similar to other motor vehicle collisions, the severity of injuries varies based on factors like the size, weight, and speed of the vehicles involved. Common rideshare accident injuries include:
- Amputations
- Burns
- Emotional distress
- Facial and dental injuries
- Fractured or broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Internal injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Organ damage
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Spinal injuries and paralysis
- Soft tissue injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents
Lyft and Uber drivers in Fresno face unique work challenges that can contribute to accidents. Dealing with tight schedules, continuous app alerts, and navigating unfamiliar areas creates more distractions for them compared to other drivers. This is a significant factor, especially considering that over 900 speed-related car accidents have occurred within Fresno County in recent years.
These factors, along with the typical risks of operating a motor vehicle, make Uber and Lyft accidents a common occurrence. The common causes of why California rideshare accidents happen include the following.
- Distracted Driving: Checking the phone app for ride requests, GPS rerouting, or texting passengers diverts attention from the road.
- Driver Fatigue: Many Uber and Lyft drivers work extended shifts, often late into the night, increasing the risk of drowsy driving.
- Unfamiliarity with Local Roads: Drivers who rely on GPS to navigate unfamiliar roads, busy highways, or new neighborhoods may make other unsafe maneuvers.
- Speeding and Reckless Maneuvers: Rushing to meet pick-up and drop-off times, maintain 5-star ratings, or earn higher tips can lead to dangerous driving behaviors.
- Illegal Stops: Stopping abruptly in no-parking zones or blocking lanes to pick up or drop off passengers endangers everyone on the road, especially bicyclists and pedestrians in these scenarios.
- Faulty Parts or Rideshare Vehicle Maintenance: Neglected brakes, worn tires, and other mechanical issues can be attributed to vehicle manufacturers or mechanics who recently serviced an Uber and Lyft vehicle.
- Poor Hiring Practices: Uber and Lyft could be held responsible for accidents if their rideshare drivers were not properly screened through background checks or adequately trained.
Many of these common causes may also be associated with other drivers, as well. Recognizing the cause of these types of rideshare accidents helps build a stronger case by highlighting the at-fault party’s negligence or lapse in judgment.
Who Is at Fault for a California Rideshare Accident?
Similar to other motor vehicle accidents, responsibility for an Uber or Lyft crash can involve several parties. However, determining liability in these cases may be less straightforward. Liable parties may include the following.
- The Uber or Lyft Driver – Speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, or other forms of reckless driving
- Rideshare Company – Commercial insurance is applicable if the Uber or Lyft driver was logged into the app when the accident occurred
- Other Motorists – Negligent driver caused the collision with the Uber or Lyft vehicle
- Vehicle Manufacturers – Faulty brakes, airbags, tires, or other defective vehicle parts
- Government Entities or The City of Fresno – Poorly maintained roads, malfunctioning traffic signals, construction hazards, or other ill-maintained road conditions
- Passengers or Pedestrians – Passenger misconduct, due to intoxication or unrestrained behavior, or pedestrian negligence
Our California Lyft accident attorneys conduct in-depth investigations, like collecting police reports, interviewing eyewitnesses, and analyzing app and GPS data, to identify and hold every responsible party accountable.
California’s Comparative Fault System
California follows a pure comparative fault system. This means that the injured party, or plaintiff, may be deemed partly responsible for causing the rideshare accident, BUT may still recover damages. Financial recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault attributable to the plaintiff’s actions.
This is more common in accidents involving two vehicles, rather than those involving a rideshare passenger. For example, if a driver is found 10% at fault for a crash and a rideshare driver is found predominantly at fault, the other driver may still recover 90% of compensation.
In the event you share responsibility for an Uber accident or Lyft accident, it’s vital to seek legal represntation. Experienced negotiators know how to refute insurance tactics aimed at inflating your share of blame, ultimately maximizing your settlement.
How Uber and Lyft’s Insurance Coverage Works
Under California law, ridesharing companies must maintain supplementary liability insurance for their Uber/Lyft drivers, offering greater financial security to rideshare accident victims than standard traffic incidents.
However, this enhanced insurance coverage is contingent on the rideshare driver’s status, categorized into “periods,” at the time of the collision. Here is a general overview of how Uber and Lyft’s liability coverage works.
Offline Period: Not Logged in to the App
When a rideshare driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app at the time of an accident, neither company’s insurance policy provides coverage. In such instances, only the personal auto insurance of the drivers involved would apply to cover resulting injuries and damages.
Period 1: App On, Not Paired with a Passenger
When a rideshare driver is logged into the app while awaiting a ride request, his or her personal auto insurance may serve as the primary coverage. However, if that policy reaches its limit, Uber and Lyft are required to provide supplemental coverage to cover additional damages.
- $50,000 of bodily injury per person
- $100,000 of bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 in property damage per accident
Periods 2 and 3: Trip Accepted and/or Passenger Onboard
When a rideshare driver accepts a ride request and is en route to pick up a passenger (Period 2) or is transporting a passenger to a destination (Period 3), Uber and Lyft may provide liability coverage.
- $1 million commercial auto liability
- $1 million uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
Why This Affects an Uber/Lyft Accident Case
Following an accident, insurance companies for both the Uber/Lyft driver and the rideshare company may try to avoid liability or minimize compensation by disputing responsibility.
Consulting with a Fresno Uber accident attorney or a Lyft accident attorney specializing in cases involving rideshare vehicles is crucial to determine the applicable insurance policy and pursue the maximum possible settlement.
What to Do When an Uber/Lyft Accident Happens
Taking the right actions immediately after a crash is crucial to protecting your health and preserving your rideshare accident claim. If possible, proceed with the following steps.
- Ensure Safety and Call 911. Stay at the rideshare accident scene and call for help. For other drivers, turn on hazard lights and move vehicles out of traffic.
- Document Everything. Photograph injuries, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, intersection layout, road conditions, and visible injuries. Collect witness statements and their contact information.
- Exchange Information. Report the Uber/Lyft driver and driver ID in the app. Additionally, collect contact information, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details for all drivers involved.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention. Hidden injuries (e.g., traumatic brain injuries, whiplash) can worsen–and even result in death–if untreated. Additionally, early medical documentation is pivotal to a personal injury claim.
- Preserve Evidence. Retain all documents related to the Uber/Lyft accident, such as medical bills, medical records, pay stubs, and invoices.
To guarantee the proper execution of all necessary procedures, consult with an experienced Uber/Lyft accident attorney as soon as possible.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
California’s statute of limitations to file most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the rideshare accident.
However, claims against government entities, such as those involving federal vehicles or accidents caused by poorly maintained roads, have a significantly shorter filing deadline of only 6 months from the date of the rideshare accident.
Missing deadlines for filing within the statute of limitations will result in the inability to recover damages. Legal representation ensures all filing dates are met and submitted within the statute of limitations.
How Our Fresno Rideshare Accident Lawyers Can Help
With offices throughout Southern California, including Fresno, our personal injury law firm, Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer, leverages local expertise and courtroom experience to ensure negligent parties are held responsible for their negligence.
Free Case Evaluation
We provide no-cost, no-obligation consultations to all prospective clients, offering advice on the most suitable legal options tailored to their specific circumstances.
Contingency Fee Arrangement
Our personal injury attorneys operate on contingency, meaning clients pay ZERO upfront legal fees and are not charged for our legal services until we deliver a case win.
Full-Service Case Representation
Our firm conducts comprehensive investigations, aggressively negotiates with insurance companies, and thoroughly calculates the full extent of damages.
Maximize Settlement
By utilizing accident reconstruction experts, private investigators for footage retrieval, and legal procedures to secure driver logs and Uber/Lyft app data, our legal team constructs a strong case to achieve the best possible outcome.
Personalized Attention
Our clients are more than a case number. We are sincerely invested in their well-being, which is why we provide dedicated support through every step of the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uber and Lyft Accidents
Q: Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
A: Generally, Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors to avoid direct liability. However, when a driver is logged into the app (Periods 2 or 3), the company’s commercial policies kick in, and we can pursue claims under those policies. If the rideshare company refuses to offer a fair settlement, a personal injury lawsuit may be filed, and the case can be pursued in court.
Q: What if I was partially at fault?
A: Under California’s pure comparative fault laws, damages may still be recovered, even when the individual filing the claim is partially at fault. Financial compensation is reduced by the degree of assigned fault. Our goal is to shift as much fault as possible onto the negligent parties.
Q: How long will my case take?
A: Most personal injury claims settle out of court within 6 – 12 months. However, depending on the complexity and if litigation is required, settling a case may extend beyond the one-year mark. We provide honest timelines based on each client’s circumstances.
Q: What if the at-fault driver has minimal insurance?
A: Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage. If the at-fault drivers are uninsured or do not possess sufficient coverage, the rideshare company’s insurance will provide supplemental coverage.
Q: How much does an Uber or Lyft accident lawyer cost?
A: Some Uber/Lyft accident lawyers charge hourly or flat rates. However, we work on a contingency fee basis with no upfront costs. Our legal fee is only collected after a case win and consists of a percentage of the awarded compensation.
After an Accident, Jeff’s Got You
The Fresno Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer can get you the maximum compensation for your injuries and other damages.
We’ll handle the paperwork, negotiations, and courtroom battles so you can focus on what matters most—your recovery and your family.
Contact us today for your free, no-obligation consultation. After an accident, Jeff’s got you.
Time is of the essence. You have only two years–or in some cases only six months–to seek compensation.
Other Personal Injury Cases Our Law Firm Handles
Our Fresno County law offices are in Clovis, Del Rey, Madera County, Selma, Tranquility, Parlier, Kingsburg, Auberry, Orange Cove, and Riverdale. We also offer representation for the following practice areas:
- Bicycle Accidents
- Car Accidents
- Dog Bites
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Personal Injury
- Slip and Fall Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Uber Accidents
- Lyft Accidents
- Wrongful Death
- Workers’ Compensation
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer
When you’re ready, our Fresno Uber and Lyft accident attorneys offer a free case evaluation. We’re committed to holding negligent parties and insurance companies accountable and securing the compensation you deserve.
Address: 44 P Street, Suite 304, Fresno, CA 93721
Phone Number: (559) 900-3076
Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer’s Other Locations
Our personal injury law firm offers complimentary case evaluations at all Southern California locations. Contact one of our offices and speak with a Fresno Uber and Lyft accident attorney at your convenience.