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.

Since 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.

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/Lyft Accidents in Sacramento

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. 

Coverage is as follows:

• Offline: The driver’s personal auto insurance applies if they are not logged into the rideshare app.
• Logged in, no ride accepted: Limited contingent coverage applies, generally including $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Ride accepted or passenger in vehicle: Up to $1 million in liability coverage typically applies during an active ride period.

With over 50 years of combined personal injury litigation experience, our Sacramento 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 impact can force the neck and head to snap, leading to whiplash, stiffness, and long-term pain.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can affect memory, focus, and overall cognitive function, with severe cases leading to lifelong disabilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or full paralysis, often requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or other areas may require surgery and extended recovery periods.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding can be life-threatening and require immediate emergency treatment.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and ligament tears can cause ongoing pain and limit mobility, often requiring physical therapy.

Beyond the physical harm, these injuries can disrupt every part of your life, from your ability to work to caring for your family or even driving yourself to appointments. Some clients must receive treatment at local facilities such as UC Davis Medical Center or Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center. A Lyft accident lawyer in Sacramento can help document the full extent of these changes so your claim reflects current and long-term impacts on your daily routines and independence.

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.

Common types of compensation that may be available after a rideshare crash include:

• Medical expenses: Compensation for medical expenses 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. 
• 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

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

Commonly Asked Questions

What should I do if I'm involved in a rideshare accident in Sacramento?

If you're involved in a rideshare accident in Sacramento, it's crucial to ensure your safety first by seeking medical attention if needed. Then, document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from witnesses. It's also important to report the accident to the rideshare company. Lastly, consider consulting with a Sacramento rideshare accident attorney to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation for any injuries or damages sustained.

Do I need to hire a rideshare accident lawyer in Sacramento?

No, you are not legally required to hire a rideshare accident lawyer in Sacramento. However, having an attorney can make it easier to deal with Uber/Lyft insurance rules, determine liability across multiple coverage periods, and pursue the full value of your claim while you focus on recovery.

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in California?