San Bernardino’s Uber Accident Attorney

Entrust your Uber accident case to San Bernardino’s award-winning rideshare accident law firm and Newsweek’s Top 10 Best Personal Injury Attorneys, The Reeves Law Group.

For over 30 years, the seasoned legal experts at The Reeves Law Group has successfully championed car and specifically Uber-related lawsuits, including hit-and-run cases, rear-end crashes, head-on collisions, multiple car incidents, speeding accidents, drunk and distracted driving, amassing over $250,000,000 in settlements and verdicts.

With The Reeves Law Group fighting for your claim’s maximum potential, you can rest assured that you’re a step closer to physical, emotional and financial recovery. We’ll let our satisfied clientele testify to our expertise.

If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft crash and need help, Call us today at (800) 644-8000 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Our team is ready to listen to your story, answer your questions, and offer the guidance you need to make informed decisions about your case. Let us be your beacon of courage and strength during this challenging time.

Derek Pakiz, Partner and trial attorney at the Reeves Law Group,is not just any accident attorney specializing in rideshare accidents, he is arguably one of California’s top authorities in injury cases when it comes to Uber accidents, thanks to his extensive experience and considering that he is only one in more than 250,000 attorneys in California to be certified in both Civil Trial and Truck Accident law.

If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft crash and need help, contact us or call (800) 644-8000 for a free consultation / case review. Get in touch with our experienced San Bernardino rideshare crash lawyer right away and let us be your beacon of courage and strength!

Feel free to browse the latest testimonials on our website from local San Bernardino residents, or research our firm’s reputation on Google.

How We Can Help After a Rideshare Accident?

As a Lyft and Uber accident lawyer, we possess extensive and specialized expertise in negotiating with these large rideshare companies’ insurance on your behalf. When faced with desperation from our adversaries, we are exceptionally skilled at filing lawsuits and proceeding to court to reclaim damages for our clients. Our ultimate goal is to succeed in your case and ensure you receive fair compensation.

We place great emphasis is helping victims involving serious and tragic collisions involving Uber and Lyft vehicles, incidents with rideshare vehicles and pedestrians, accidents at crosswalks involving Ubers, and a wide range of related events with various rideshare companies that may be liable for your accident.

If you’ve sustained injuries in an Uber crash, the journey ahead may seem filled with struggle and stress. Derek understands the vulnerability you feel and the fear of facing large companies like Uber or Lyft.

Why Choose The Reeves Law Group for Your Uber Accident Claim?

Leverage Derek’s tiger-like qualities and his personal injury experience, rooted in determination and courage, and call The Reeves Law Group. Contact us on (800) 644-8000 for a complimentary, confidential consultation. Our mission is to protect your trust in justice, combat the injustice you’ve faced, and secure the rightful compensation you deserve after such a devastating incident related to a rideshare company.

Can you afford our services? Yes! Our rideshare accident law firm provides free contingency fee counsel for all cases including Uber accidents (you pay no fee until we win) on the legal rights and obligations associated with Uber and rideshare accidents.

For a Free Consultation Call (800) 644-8000

ABOUT Uber and Lyft Accidents in San Bernardino

Rideshare Statistics Involving Injury Accidents

• Fatalities and Accidents: Lyft reported over 100 fatalities in accidents during 2017 and 2019. It’s noteworthy that California is one of the most crash-prone states for Uber and Lyft, partly due to the high number of rideshare vehicles and drivers spending more time on the road​​.
• Rideshare Accident Trends: Research incorporating data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlighted that from 2017 to 2018, Uber vehicles were linked to 97 fatal crashes resulting in 107 deaths. These statistics show a significant risk of fatal collisions involving rideshare vehicles​​.
• Nonfatal Accidents: A joint study by the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Department of Insurance found that ride-hailing accidents and incidents had generated 9,388 claims, resulting in $185.6 million in losses over three years (2014-2016)​​.
• Insurance and Liability Challenges: The complexity of liability and insurance coverage in rideshare accidents is significant. Despite Uber holding $1 million in liability insurance, the process of determining responsibility and obtaining compensation can be intricate and challenging, especially considering Uber’s policy terms that imply passengers use the service at their own risk​

Where do Rideshare Accidents Typically Occur?

1. Urban and Suburban Areas: Uber and Lyft are most commonly used in urban and suburban locations. These areas have a higher population density, leading to more ride requests and shorter wait times for passengers.
2. Airports: Both services are popular for airport pickups and drop-offs, offering an alternative to traditional taxis and airport shuttles. They often have designated areas at airports where drivers can meet passengers.
3. Event Venues: Large events like concerts, sports games, or festivals often see a surge in demand for Uber and Lyft rides. These services help attendees avoid the hassle of parking and navigating through crowded areas.
4. Nightlife Spots: Bars, clubs, and restaurants are common pickup and drop-off points, especially during the evenings and weekends. Ridesharing offers a safe option for those who have been drinking.
5. Hotels and Tourist Attractions: Tourists frequently use Uber and Lyft to get around unfamiliar cities, visiting attractions, hotels, and other points of interest without the need for car rentals or public transportation.
6. Residential Areas: Many users book rides from their homes to various destinations, including work, school, shopping centers, medical appointments, and more.
7. Business Districts: These services are also used for commuting to and from work, especially in areas where parking is expensive or limited.

Uber And Lyft Accidents Can Result Due to Negligence

When it comes to rideshare accidents, it can really depend who is liable for the accident that caused your injuries.

Understanding negligence and recklessness is crucial for victims of rideshare accidents to navigate the complexities of personal injury liability and secure justice.

Negligence, defined as the failure to exercise reasonable care to avoid causing injury or loss to another person, and recklessness, a disregard for the safety of others, often underpin such incidents.

For instance, a passenger, Alex, injured in an accident caused by his Uber driver’s negligence while en route to another passenger, may find Uber’s liability insurance relevant but will also delve into legal nuances to ascertain the driver’s personal insurance involvement. This scenario underscores the importance of identifying the driver’s duty of care, their potential breach of this duty through inattentiveness or unsafe driving, and the direct causation of Alex’s injuries.

Similarly, duty of care comes into sharp focus when examining a Lyft driver, Jamie, who, post-passenger drop-off and still under the app’s operational mode, collides with another vehicle. The determination of whether Jamie was performing duties for Lyft and her possible negligence or intentional misconduct raises questions about the scope of Lyft’s liability. Additionally, the case of Casey, a pedestrian struck by a distracted rideshare driver in San Francisco, highlights the debate over the driver’s engagement with the app at the time of the accident and Lyft’s consequent liability for the injuries inflicted.

Victims in these situations can seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, necessitating thorough documentation of all incurred costs and the impact on their lives. Collecting evidence, including photographs, witness statements, and expert testimony, becomes pivotal in substantiating a claim of negligence or recklessness.

However, legal thresholds exist that must be met to prove such claims, alongside potential defenses like comparative negligence or assumption of risk that defendants may invoke. Moreover, the statute of limitations imposes a deadline on filing claims, urging victims to seek legal counsel promptly.

The value of an experienced personal injury attorney cannot be overstated, as they can navigate the legal intricacies, evaluate the breach of duty, establish causation, and advocate for the victim’s right to compensation. Assessing an attorney’s credentials and track record in similar cases is advisable.

In conclusion, rideshare accidents involving negligence or recklessness necessitate a nuanced understanding of personal injury law, from defining duty of care and establishing a breach and causation, to seeking appropriate damages and understanding legal defenses. Victims are encouraged to seek legal advice without delay.

What Damages, Compensation or Payment Can An Attorney Help me Pursue?

If you or a loved one was injured or killed in devastating an auto accident involving an Uber, Lyft or rideshare vehicle in the Inland Empire, you may be entitled to compensation (typical monetary compensation / money) from one or multiple insurance providers.

Permanent disability, disfigurement and loss of enjoyment of life are terrible consequences of an Uber accident, and need to be truly compensated for which an experienced attorney can help with.

After an accident, you may file a personal injury claim and recover compensation (also known as a settlement) for:

• Medical bills and health care expenditures
• Costs of rehabilitation/healing/recovery process
• Property Damage
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of Wages
• Life-Care
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life
• Death of a Loved One (or wrongful death)

How Much money is My Uber Accident Case Worth?

The monetary (Dollar) value of vehicle accident cases involving Uber varies on the specifics of your case and how serious your injuries are. It is not a question that can be easily answered without knowing the details of your case. To find out specifically how much your case is worth, contact us today for a free and friendly consultation.

In general, Uber and Lyft proffer analogous auto insurance regimes, segmented by driver activity. Off-app personal use triggers personal insurance liability.

Conversely, while “ready” in-app without a fare, limited third-party liability is furnished, encapsulating $50,000 for individual bodily injury, $100,000 per mishap, and $25,000 for property detriment. Post fare acceptance, coverage escalates to $1 million in third-party liability, inclusive of underinsured motorist, contingent comprehensive, and collision indemnity, subject to a $1,000 deductible.

In the event of a rideshare accident in San Bernardino, navigating claims against these platforms can be difficult–it would be highly beneficial to have a specialized attorney on your side!

FAQs

Can you sue Uber or Lyft if you get in an accident?

Most likely yes. Passengers injured in an accident with an Uber or Lyft may be eligible for a lawsuit as a plaintiff. You should contact a local personal injury attorney before filing a rideshare accident claim or speaking to an insurance company.

Do I Have to Go to Court If I Sue uber?

Most car accident cases don’t have to go to court because they are settled prior to trial, or even before the personal injury lawsuit is finalized (meaning you likely won’t ever have to speak with a judge). This is especially important for clients that are injured or unable to attend due to a disability). Negotiations will take place between your rideshare accident attorney and the defendants’ attorney, and while they can be lengthy, both parties generally tend to avoid going to trial and prefer achieving a legal result via negotiations.

How Do You Contact Uber About an Accident?

You likely don’t need to communicate directly with Uber or with their insurance provider!! Your attorney will contact the at-fault party and their insurance company on your behalf, and recover financial compensation.

Our law offices have been helping victims of Uber accidents in LA, and throughout Southern California for almost four decades.

The Role of a Specialized Attorney

Client Representation

Engaging a specialized attorney experienced in rideshare accidents is essential for effective legal representation in personal injury cases related to such incidents. These attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of the legal intricacies specific to rideshare services, ensuring your rights are protected and your compensation claim is vigorously pursued. Their expertise in navigating the complex laws, regulations, and negotiation tactics with insurance companies and other stakeholders is crucial for securing a fair outcome.

Self-representation in rideshare accident cases carries significant risks due to the complexity of the legal system and the professional negotiation skills required. A specialized attorney provides not only expert legal guidance but also emotional support and compassionate assistance throughout the process, helping victims and their families navigate both the legal and emotional challenges involved.

In summary, choosing an attorney with specialized experience in rideshare accidents is key to protecting your interests, securing the compensation you deserve, and providing comprehensive support throughout your case.

Why Personal Experience and Expertise is Key

Derek Pakiz stands out as a leading attorney in rideshare and vehicle accident cases, uniquely certified in Civil Trial and Truck Accident Law in California. He brings an exceptional mix of personal experience and professional expertise to tackle complex rideshare accident cases, offering unrivaled guidance through the challenges of physical and financial recovery post-collision. His in-depth knowledge, gained from working directly with Uber’s legal team, enables him to anticipate obstacles and provide practical, proven advice tailored to rideshare litigation nuances.

Pakiz’s distinct advantage lies in his firsthand experience and comprehensive understanding of corporate legal strategies, setting him apart in providing effective legal representation in rideshare injuries. Choosing Derek and the Reeves Law Group, a San Bernardino-based firm specializing in rideshare injuries, offers clients a blend of empathy, expertise, and a genuine understanding of the challenges faced, significantly impacting their recovery process.

Working with a Local San Bernardino County-based RideShare Lawyer

Hiring a local San Bernardino Uber/Lyft accident lawyer offers several key advantages. Firstly, local attorneys understand the specific legal complexities of the Inland Empire, enhancing their ability to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.

Local lawyers also benefit from connections within the community, such as healthcare experts and private investigators, who can provide essential evidence for your case. Their relationships with local judges and opposing counsel can streamline the legal process.

The convenience of a local lawyer cannot be overstated. Being in the same area fosters better communication and eliminates the logistical problems of time zone differences and travel, which is critical since effective communication is essential for a successful client-attorney relationship, according to the American Bar Association.

While out-of-area lawyers might have broader experience, local legal expertise is crucial for handling the nuances of Uber/Lyft accident cases. A local lawyer is like a community doctor, offering not only skilled representation but also community support and less financial stress in pursuing compensation.

In 2020, there were over 2,316 personal injury attorneys in San Bernardino County, but only a small number specialize in Uber/Lyft accidents, highlighting the demand for attorneys with this focus. Local lawyers are better equipped to navigate insurance company tactics, ensuring clients receive the compensation they deserve for their losses and emotional suffering.

If you are a passenger who has suffered a serious injury due to the negligence of an Uber driver, contact The Reeves Law Group for a free case evaluation. Our law firm works on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay fees unless we win your case.

Navigating Legal Complexities

Navigating the intricate legal landscape following an Uber or Lyft accident in San Bernardino demands a deep understanding of specific laws and regulations, a task that can be daunting for individuals already dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of the accident. An attorney specializing in Uber and Lyft accidents will manage these complex procedures for you, providing guidance at every stage of this difficult process.

A major legal challenge for victims of rideshare accidents is determining the rightful compensation for their injuries. Attorneys with expertise in this area are well-versed in the full spectrum of damages, from substantial medical expenses to the loss of earnings due to disruptions in work and personal life following the incident. They are also skilled at calculating additional compensations such as pain and suffering or the loss of life’s quality that the victim may be entitled to.

Clients who work with professionals knowledgeable in the specificities of rideshare law tend to receive settlements that are, on average, 3.5 times higher than those who navigate these challenges without legal assistance.

Dealing directly with insurance companies, which often aim to minimize claim values, represents another legal hurdle. Insurance adjusters commonly employ strategies to blame the victims or present arguments that devalue the claim. An attorney specializing in Uber and Lyft accidents in San Bernardino knows how to counter these tactics effectively, ensuring the pursuit of maximum compensation from insurance providers.

For instance, in the case of a severe injury from an Uber accident in San Bernardino, my client faced significant medical bills. The insurance adjuster tried to limit compensation by blaming the victim for negligence. Acting as their attorney, I negotiated with the insurance company on behalf of my client, securing a compensation package that covered all their medical expenses and alleviated their financial burden.

Some people believe handling legal matters without an attorney is more cost-effective than hiring one. While this might seem financially sensible at first, foregoing professional legal advice can lead to receiving lower compensation or even losing the case due to a lack of understanding of the legal intricacies involved.

Navigating legal complexities without the assistance of an attorney skilled in Uber and Lyft accidents is akin to diagnosing and treating complex health issues without medical expertise. It’s a risky endeavor where a single misstep can lead to severe consequences. Just as it’s unwise to address serious medical conditions without professional guidance, trying to untangle the web of legal challenges without expert assistance is imprudent, as even a minor error or oversight can lead to substantial losses.

Contact Our Uber / Lyft / Rideshare Accident Law Firm

Derek Pakiz has won thousands of cases, including numerous uber and Lyft accident cases, and have earned a reputation for professionalism and competence. We have the experience, skill, and resources to ensure that our clients will obtain optimum representation in their personal injury claim

Call our rideshare accident attorney at (800) 644-8000 or contact us for a free consultation. For your convenience, we make home and hospital visits throughout the San Bernardino and Riverside area.

For a Free Consultation Call (800) 644-8000

[Written by Derek Pakiz. Page updated on 02/22/2024]