Simi Valley Uber Accident Lawyer

Uber’s popularity is no surprise in areas like Simi Valley where extensive, efficient public transportation doesn’t exist and provides convenient, economic tailored transport with the push of a button through an app. When Uber accidents happen, though, the number of parties involved, and the question of a driver’s status can be understandably confusing. The experienced Simi Valley Uber accident lawyers at Walch Law know this and offer a no obligation, no charge initial consultation to talk about how we can help, explain the process of a lawsuit, and answer your questions. Call Robert and Gary Walch today!

Risk of Uber Accidents in Simi Valley

Uber reports more than 15 million passengers daily, so in a large, densely populated area like Simi Valley near large, congested freeways like the 101, 118, and 405, it’s no surprise accidents involving these rideshare cars are also a daily occurrence. Uber reported 58 fatal crashes related to Uber trips in 2018 but failed to disclose how many accidents and injuries took place. However, in Simi Valley in 2017, 356 injuries and deaths took place – undoubtedly some involving Uber rideshare vehicles. Major highways and busy roads like Tierra Rejada Road, Madera Road, and Viewline Drive all provide ample opportunity for serious injuries and fatalities from accidents involving Ubers.

Who Will Pay for My Rideshare Injuries?

In a perfect world, Uber’s insurance company will pay because they insure their drivers on the job and require that drivers also carry their own car insurance. However, often the insurer may argue they’re not liable for your injuries and try to deny your claim. Depending on the driver’s status, who’s responsible for paying can vary.

• Off-Duty – If the driver isn’t logged into their Uber app and is not available for hire, Uber’s company insurance doesn’t apply. The driver’s personal auto insurance policy must cover any liability the driver incurred due to their negligent, injury-causing actions behind the wheel.
• Available – If the driver is logged into their Uber app and can be hired by a customer, the company’s auto insurance policy will cover up to $50,000 bodily injury coverage per person, up to $100,000 in liability for total injuries per crash the driver causes, and $25,000 in property damage the driver caused. The Uber driver’s injuries and damage to their vehicle, however, aren’t covered.
• En Route to Pick Up Passenger – Once an Uber driver is hired and is en route to the passenger for pickup, Uber’s liability insurance coverage goes up to $1 million.
• Passenger Picked Up and En Route to Destination – Once the driver picks up the passenger and is en route to their destination, Uber’s elevated insurance policy applies. That policy covers $1 million in liability and $1 million worth of bodily injuries. Uber’s insurer must also cover driver vehicle damage, but only if the driver also has their own personal collision or comprehensive insurance coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage is also provided while the driver is en route to the passenger’s destination with them in the vehicle.

Should a Passenger Sue their Uber Driver?

They can, but they typically shouldn’t need to – insurance companies usually settle claims in a way that compensates victims for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. If for some reason the insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement, you can hire a Simi Valley Uber accident lawyer to file a lawsuit seeking damages for your injuries suffered as a passenger.

Steps to Take after an Uber Accident

After an accident occurs involving an Uber, there are a few important steps you need to take to gather valuable evidence, treat your injuries, and collect information that will help you in the future.

• Call 911 right away if anyone is injured or property is damaged
• Notify law enforcement and cooperate to help officers complete an accident report
• Notify your insurance company to begin the claims process, but avoid giving a recorded statement if possible
• Seek immediate medical treatment whether or not you believe you were hurt
• Gather important evidence including the police report, photographs of the scene, the vehicles, and your injuries, names and information of everyone involved in the accident as well as any eyewitnesses and the responding officers
• Get the license and personal auto insurance information of the Uber driver
• Contact a Simi Valley Uber accident lawyer to learn the process of personal injury lawsuits and how to protect yourself

Contact a Lawyer Today

As soon as you hire us, we will start working on your case because we understand you need maximum compensation as soon as possible and the closure that a settlement check brings. With over 40 year of experience obtaining successful outcomes, Robert and Gary Walch are the Simi Valley Uber accident lawyers you want in your corner after a traumatic Uber accident.