Sacramento Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Rideshare Accident Victims in California

Rideshare services involve connecting passengers with drivers through the use of online applications. While rideshare transportation in California is relatively new, the number of accidents involving such services such as Uber is remarkably high. The laws governing liability for rideshare services are also different than those governing other transportation or taxi services.

Because the relationship between the company and the driver is viewed differently (as are the terms of employment), the company may attempt to use this difference in relationship as a means of denying liability. Establishing who is responsible and who has to pay for injuries occurring in these accidents is often extremely difficult.

At Piering Law Firm, we keep up-to-date on the law regarding rideshare liability in car accidents and understand how to prove liability and make responsible parties pay. If you were hurt in a car accident as an Uber passenger or if you were hit by an Uber driver, our rideshare accident attorney in Sacramento can help!

Liability Coverage & Uber Accidents

The types of insurance coverage applicable to an accident involving an Uber driver vary greatly based upon the circumstances. The coverage differs depending on whether the driver is or is not on a trip. For example, insurance companies may attempt to deny coverage regarding an accident by claiming a driver is between rides.

The Sacramento rideshare accident attorneys at Piering Law Firm have the sophistication to sort out which parties should be held responsible for the injuries you have suffered. We understand whether compensation packages offered to settle injury claims are sufficient. Finally, with over 50 years of combined personal injury litigation experience, our Uber accident lawyers know how to try cases in court. Due to our reputation as litigators, we are in a strong position to successfully negotiate claims without having to go to court.

Rideshare Accident Statistics

Over the last few years, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration noted that car accident fatalities have increased by 2 to 4% each year following the introduction of rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber. In addition to an increase in car accident fatalities, there have also been increases in pedestrian and cyclist accidents.

With rideshare accidents on the rise, it's important that victims have strong advocates who can obtain the justice and compensation they deserve.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Common injuries in rideshare accidents include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden jolts and impacts could cause the head and neck to snap back and forth violently, leading to whiplash or other serious neck injuries. These injuries often result in chronic pain and require extensive medical treatment.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe outcomes of rideshare accidents. Even a minor concussion can have substantial effects on cognitive functions, while more serious TBIs can lead to lifelong disabilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. Victims could require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and assistance with daily activities.
• Broken Bones: The impact of a collision could result in fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and other bones. These injuries often necessitate surgeries, physical therapy, and long recovery periods.
• Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding and damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears in muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause substantial pain and limit mobility, often requiring physical therapy to heal properly.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Rideshare Accident Claim?

Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation to help cover the financial, physical, and emotional impacts of the accident. Understanding what damages can be recovered is crucial for building a strong legal claim.

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for medical expenses includes all costs related to treating injuries sustained in the accident. This can cover hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care that may be necessary.
• Lost Wages: If injuries from a rideshare accident prevent the victim from working, they can claim compensation for lost wages. This includes both the income lost during recovery and any future earnings lost due to long-term or permanent disability.
• Pain and Suffering: Victims can seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. This non-economic damage considers the severity of the injuries and their effect on the victim's quality of life.
• Property Damage: If personal property, like a vehicle or valuable belongings, is damaged in the accident, the victim can recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
• Loss of Consortium: In instances where the accident impacts the victim's relationship with their spouse or family, compensation could be granted for loss of companionship, affection, and support.
• Punitive Damages: In some cases, if the rideshare driver’s conduct was reckless or egregious, the court may award punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

Contact Our Rideshare Accident Attorney in Sacramento Today

As powerful advocates on your behalf, we take immediate steps to investigate your claim while working toward preserving evidence and interviewing every witness. Our law firm retains expert witnesses who provide the kind of evidence testimony and evidence to bring your case successfully to a conclusion.

For a free consultation to discuss your case with one of our Sacramento rideshare accident lawyers, call (916) 476-2399 or contact us online. We make ourselves available for weekend appointments. Our firm handles cases on a contingency basis, which means you do not pay without recovery. Se habla español.