Ventura Uber Accident Lawyer

With over 15 million riders each day, Uber is a popular, convenient, and generally safe transportation option in Ventura and the surrounding areas. The company has publicly voiced its support for safe driving behavior on the roads to keep drivers and riders safe, but unfortunately not everyone takes this advice to heart and acts accordingly at all times. When an Uber accident occurs, it can be confusing to understand what to do and who pays considering the driver may be on the job and multiple parties are involved. The Ventura Uber accident lawyers at Walch Law understand your situation and are here to answer your questions, explain the process of getting you the money you deserve quickly, and tell you how we can help. Contact us today to get started and get the compensation you need.

Ventura Uber Accident Risks

Ventura, a growing city of over 110,000, is the seat of Ventura County northwest of Los Angeles and near the massive, busy 101 freeway. With a large number of restaurants, beaches, sports venues like the Ventura Raceway, a busy bar scene, and several airports nearby, Uber is an appealing option for getting around the city and the LA Metro area. Riders use Uber to get to and from nightlife responsibly, avoid the hassle of finding parking or the expense of valets, and manage without a car but without having to use inefficient public transportation. However, the additional vehicles on the roads contribute to the 690 individuals injured and killed in Ventura car accidents in 2017 and other years. Uber has reported 58 fatal crashes related to Uber trips, but didn’t reveal the total number of accidents and injuries.

Does Uber Pay for My Damages?

Uber’s insurance company insures their drivers while they are the job, and Uber also requires drivers carry their own car insurance policy. However, sometimes the insurer may argue they’re not liable for your injuries and try to deny your claim because an at-fault Uber driver was off duty. Depending on the driver’s status, different insurance companies may be responsible for paying the claim. If another motorist is at-fault, their insurance company would be tasked with paying for damages.

If the Uber Driver is Off Duty

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 actions behind the wheel if they were at-fault.

If the Uber Driver is Available for Hire but Has Not Accepted a Ride Request

In this case, Uber’s insurance policy will cover up to:

• $50,000 bodily injury coverage per person
• $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, are not covered. They must use their personal insurance policy.

If the Uber Driver Has Been Hired and is On the Way to Pick Up a Passenger

Uber’s liability insurance applies with an increase in coverage of $1 million liability and bodily injury.

If a Passenger Was Picked Up and the Driver is Headed to Their Destination

In this scenario, Uber’s elevated coverage applies. That policy covers:

• $1 million in liability and
• $1 million worth of bodily injuries in an accident.

Uber’s insurance also covers their Uber driver’s vehicle damage if they also have their own personal collision or comprehensive insurance coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage is also provided while the driver is taking the passenger to their destination.

Steps to Take After an Accident

There are a few important things to do after an Uber accident to gather important evidence, help determine who is at-fault, look after your health, and help your future claim for compensation.

• Call 911 if anyone is injured or property is damaged
• Notify law enforcement and cooperate with responding officers to help with the accident report
• Notify your insurance company
• Seek immediate medical treatment even if you believe you weren’t hurt
• If possible, photograph the scene, vehicles, your injuries, and any evidence like skid marks
• Get the names and information of everyone involved in the accident, any eyewitnesses, and the responding police officers
• Get the Uber driver’s license and personal auto insurance information
• Keep receipts, paystubs, repair bills, and medical records related to your injuries and the crash
• Contact an experienced lawyer right away

It’s also important to remember there are things you can do or say to hurt your claim for compensation. After your accident:

• Do not apologize or admit fault
• Avoid commenting about your health, whether you were injured or the nature of your injuries
• Don’t say “I’m fine” or “okay” if asked how you are
• Decline to make any recorded statements without first speaking to a lawyer
• Do not post about your accident or injuries on social media

Get in Touch with a Lawyer

Being injured in any sort of car accident can turn your life upside down physically, emotionally and financially in the blink of an eye. The prospect of huge medical bills and a potentially inability to work can add stress on top of the injuries you’ve already sustained. That’s why as soon as you hire the experienced Ventura Uber accident lawyers at Walch Law, we will start working on your case because we understand you need maximum compensation quickly and the closure that a settlement check brings. With over 40 year of experience obtaining successful outcomes at a rate of 95+%, Robert and Gary are the attorneys you want in your corner fighting for your recovery. Don’t wait – contact us today to get started.

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