Over the years, Uber has continued to make progress with its insurance coverage due to a response from the California legislature. However, many people who have been injured in Modesto Uber accidents each year are left with very few options for recovery at the hands of insurance companies.
Understanding the complexities of the legal system regarding Uber accidents is not always easy, which is why our attorneys at Maison Law are here to aggressively protect your rights. We are committed to your claim and will help you seek financial support against Uber, as we have done with other large companies in the past.
Common Causes of Modesto Uber Accidents
With so many places to travel and see in Modesto on a daily basis, many individuals choose this company as a way to get from one destination to the next. Unfortunately, an accident with an Uber is not unheard of, as accidents happen every hour of the day within the city. Here are some common reasons for Uber accidents on our roads:
Driver Distractions: Uber drivers use GPS devices to get to their destination. This, along with using a cell phone, eating behind the wheel, or talking to a passenger could lead to a life-altering accident within seconds.
Drowsy Driving: Many Uber drivers work for extended hours or have made Uber their second job. Because of this, they may be fatigued while working, which could cause them to fall asleep at the wheel.
Speeding: Because Uber drivers have deadlines to meet and money to make as quickly as possible, many drivers will speed to their destination. This could lead to a devastating accident within seconds.
Driving Under the Influence: It is not uncommon for Uber drivers to sometimes drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both.
Trying to Locate Customer: When a driver is trying to locate a customer, they may wander into an area that they are unfamiliar with. They could also remove their eyes from the road while searching. This can lead to an accident with catastrophic results.
Uber Insurance Coverage
If you are a passenger or a driver who was injured in an Uber accident, you may be entitled to certain insurance coverage. However, how much coverage you can receive may depend on what the Uber driver was doing when the collision occurred:
- If a passenger was inside the vehicle or the driver was on the way to pick up a passenger, Uber may provide $1 million in commercial liability or uninsured motorist insurance.
- If the accident occurred when the Uber driver was merely logged into the app and waiting on a customer, Uber will provide $50,000 for the injury or death of one person, $100,000 for the injury or death of more than one person, or $30,000 for property damage.
- If the Uber driver was driving on their own time, the driver will have to provide $15,000 for the injury or death of one person, $30,000 for the injury or death of more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage stemming from the collision.
Uber accidents are complex due to these factors, as well as the fact that many Uber drivers are considered independent contractors instead of employees. Because insurance coverage provided by Uber may not be enough, you may need to consider bringing a personal injury or wrongful death claim against Uber depending on the circumstances of your accident.
Damages Available in a Ride-Sharing Accident Claim in Modesto
You may be able to receive the same type of damages in your Uber accident claim as you would in any other type of car accident if you choose to move forward with a lawsuit. These include some of the following:
- Medical bills you have incurred or expect to incur
- Therapy costs
- Pain and suffering damages
- Lost wages or future loss of earnings
- Wrongful death damages if a life has been taken
Punitive damages may also be available in cases where somebody was injured intentionally or in an especially reckless manner.
Contact a Modesto Uber Accident Lawyer Today
Dealing with the insurance companies after an Uber accident may seem unreasonable and impossible. At Maison Law, we understand the ins and outs of California accident laws and have dealt with insurers in these cases in the past. We know that the injuries you have suffered are affecting your life in many ways and will stand up to protect your rights. Please contact our Modesto car accident lawyers today for more information on how we can help, as well as a no-obligation case review.
