Rideshare accident cases are on the rise in southern California. Many users use rideshare applications to commute to and from work. Also, users also take advantage of the convenience of rideshare applications when they are going out to Los Angeles on the weekend.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a car accident, a rideshare accident attorney in Anaheim can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Rideshare Accidents in California
While motor vehicle traffic accidents are tracked, very few resources collect data specific to rideshare accidents. The University of Chicago compiled an independent study that revealed rideshare accidents are driving up traffic injuries and fatalities. Holding rideshare companies accountable for accidents is a strong step towards reducing driver negligence.
Which Party Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Rideshare accidents can seem complex to accident victims who may feel confused about which parties are responsible for their injuries. In general, an employer is liable for the conduct of its employee if the employee is acting within the course and scope of their employment. However, rideshare companies operate differently; the rideshare company often categorizes its drivers as independent contractors.
The driver operating the motor vehicle is liable for the injured victim’s injuries. Rideshare companies may share liability in specific circumstances. A rideshare company may have been negligent when hiring or training the driver who caused your injuries.
In this case, the rideshare company may be liable. It is important to conduct a thorough background investigation of the driver and their relationship with the rideshare company. Important facts regarding liability may be uncovered during this investigation.
Rideshare Company Insurance Policy Minimums in California
Rideshare companies have complex insurance policies that may be applicable to your case. However, the driver must be logged into the rideshare application for the insurance policy coverage to apply. If the driver is logged out of the rideshare application, then the only automobile liability insurance that applies is the policy owned by the negligent driver.
It is possible that rideshare companies provide insurance coverage if the driver is logged in and waiting on a request for a ride. Some rideshare companies provide up to $50,000 of insurance coverage per individual or $100,000 per incident. The average amount for property damage coverage is $30,000.
A driver may have accepted a request for a ride and begun driving toward a passenger, or the passenger may be inside the automobile. In either case, the total insurance coverage increases to $1 million. Also, rideshare companies generally offer $1 million of uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage when individual customers are inside the driver’s vehicle.
How a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Anaheim Can Help
An Anaheim rideshare accident lawyer can help in many significant ways. An attorney can help you understand the complicated aspects of your case, including liability and damages. In addition, you may have questions about the timeline of your accident and which insurance policy coverage applies to your injuries; speaking with a knowledgeable rideshare accident lawyer is one of the best things you can do to protect your legal rights.
For a free legal consultation with a rideshare accidents lawyer serving Anaheim, call (310) 896-2723
The Types of Damages You Can Claim After a Rideshare Accident
You can claim different types of damages if you suffered injuries during a rideshare accident. Generally, injured victims can seek economic damages and non-economic damages. The following are some of the common damages claimed in rideshare accidents:
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Lost earning capacity
- Lost earnings
- Home health costs
- Physical rehabilitation
- Medical bills
Sometimes individuals can seek punitive damages in a rideshare accident case. However, punitive damages are reserved for conduct that is wanton, willful, or malicious. Punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant and deter the defendant from committing the same conduct in the future.
Speaking with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer can help you determine which types of damages you should claim in your case. The specific facts and circumstances of your case will determine what type of damages you should claim. It can be intimidating and overwhelming to think about every aspect of a rideshare accident case all at once.
Anaheim Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
The Actions to Take if You Suffered Injuries in a Rideshare Accident
Being involved in a rideshare accident is a terrifying experience. First, you should make sure that you are physically safe and able to exit the vehicle. You should also tell the driver to move the vehicle away from the flow of traffic and make sure that the other passengers are not seriously injured.
Contact a law enforcement agency as soon as you are sure everyone around you is safe. Call 911 and request that an ambulance be dispatched to the accident scene. You also should get medical treatment even if you believe you did not suffer any injuries.
The Traffic Collision Report
It is possible that you will still be traumatized after the accident. Law enforcement officers should fill out a traffic collision report regarding the accident. In the traffic collision report, the officers should make a determination of cause.
Collect any relevant evidence that can help you substantiate your legal claims. You should obtain the contact information for the driver of the rideshare automobile. The information you need includes the insurance information, driver’s license number, and name.
You should also photograph the accident scene and any environmental conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
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Contact a Rideshare Accident Attorney in Anaheim to Schedule a Free Consultation
Speaking to an Anaheim rideshare accident attorney is one of the best things you can do after you suffer injuries during a rideshare accident. You need to understand how you can assert legal claims against the parties that may be liable for your injuries. Reach out to the Simmrin Law Group to schedule a free consultation.
We have years of experience representing clients in rideshare accident cases. We can help you develop a sound case strategy. You may not know where to turn after suffering injuries in a rideshare accident; no matter what you are going through right now, you can speak to a rideshare accident lawyer in Anaheim and learn how you can seek monetary compensation for your injuries.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form