Uber / Lyft Accidents

Claims Arising Out of Uber Accidents in Riverside and Los Angeles

At around 5:25 a.m. on August 26, 2023, a collision that killed three Uber passengers occurred in Southern California when a Mercedes driven by 31-year-old Gregory Black crashed into a Honda that was operating as an Uber. According to a detective investigating the accident, the Mercedes was traveling at a speed of approximately 85 to 90 mph when the collision occurred. The three women who lost their lives were seated in the back of the Uber. A  male passenger in the front and the female driver were critically injured. Mr. Black sustained injuries as well and was hospitalized. While the investigation has yet to determine why he ran the red light, the LAPD subsequently charged him with vehicular manslaughter.

While the parties injured in the collision and the surviving family members of those who lost their lives will likely pursue claims against the parties responsible for their injuries, the accident calls attention to the complexity of cases arising out of Uber accidents. If you were hurt in an accident involving an Uber or other ride-sharing driver, you should speak to an attorney about your options. The trusted Riverside and Los Angeles personal injury lawyers of Melo Law are adept at handling challenging matters, and we can guide you through the process of seeking any compensation available. We regularly represent parties in ride-sharing accident cases in Riverside County, Los Angeles and cities throughout Southern California.

Understanding Uber Accidents

Uber accidents, like other car accidents, can occur in countless ways. However, they differ from typical car accidents significantly. When accidents involve Uber drivers, they typically take place while the driver is providing a ride-sharing service. While Uber offers a service similar to traditional taxis, its drivers differ from taxi drivers in several crucial aspects.

Uber drivers do not undergo extensive training, and the criteria for becoming an Uber driver are relatively straightforward. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, possess a valid driver’s license with at least one year of U.S. driving experience, own a four-door vehicle, and pass background and driving record checks. Additionally, Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors rather than employees, further distinguishing them from traditional taxi drivers. This distinction can significantly impact the liability of Uber in the event of an accident.

What Can I Recover in Terms of Compensation Following an Uber Accident?

Uber accidents can result in various forms of damage, both to property and individuals. Injured parties can seek compensation for the costs associated with repairing their damaged vehicles and any medical expenses incurred due to their injuries. They may also be able to recover lost wages caused by the inability to work due to their injuries. Furthermore, people may be compensated for any pain, emotional distress, or mental trauma they suffered as a result of the accident. It is important to take prompt action when seeking damages after an accident involving an Uber driver, as any lawsuit to recover damages must be filed within two years from the date of the accident.

Does Uber Provide Insurance Coverage for Its Drivers?

Uber provides insurance coverage for its drivers, but the extent of coverage depends on the driver’s activities at the time of the accident. In other words, when an Uber driver is operating their vehicle solely for personal use, no coverage is provided. If the driver is actively providing Uber services, however, the level of coverage varies based on whether a paying passenger is in the vehicle.

The first tier of coverage applies when an Uber driver has the Uber app on and is awaiting a ride request. This tier offers liability coverage for the driver, with minimum limits of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury caused by the driver, as well as $25,000 per accident for property damage.

The second tier of coverage comes into play when the driver is en route to pick up a passenger or during a trip. In such cases, Uber provides liability coverage of at least $1,000,000 per accident for property damage and bodily injury caused by the driver. Additionally, this tier includes uninsured and underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage, which protects passengers in the Uber vehicle when another driver is at fault but lacks adequate insurance.

Meet with an Assertive Riverside and Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney

Recovering damages following an Uber accident can be challenging. Therefore, if you were involved in an Uber accident, you should consult with an experienced Riverside and Los Angeles attorney to devise a strategy for pursuing the maximum compensation available for your harm. At Melo Law, our assertive Riverside and Los Angeles personal injury attorneys prioritize people over case count, and we understand your case requires more than a one-size-fits-all legal approach. Our office is in Riverside, and we frequently represent parties in cases arising out of Uber accidents in cities in Riverside County, Los Angeles and throughout Southern California. You can reach us at 888-MELO-LAW, via email at info@melolaw.com or via our form online to schedule a confidential and free consultation.