Ever since rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft were introduced into mainstream society, it has been easier than ever to get around in unfamiliar locations or avoid paying for parking services. That being said rideshares are not without their drawbacks. The drivers may be untrained. They may get into accidents, which can lead to legal issues. If you are involved in a legal battle with a rideshare company, you should know the average Uber and Lyft accident settlement in California.
What to Do in an Uber/Lyft Accident
Rideshare app-related accidents are not uncommon. The more popular Uber and Lyft have become, the higher the number of accidents. If you are injured as a rideshare passenger or are a pedestrian who was hit by an Uber or a Lyft, you have the right to seek compensation from the company responsible for hiring the driver that caused the accident. As a passenger, here are some steps you can take immediately following an accident:
- Check for Injuries: Your driver is responsible for getting their vehicle out of the way of oncoming traffic. Remind them to do so if they do not take the initiative themselves. Then, make sure you and other passengers are not injured.
- Dial 911: As with all accidents, you need to notify the proper authorities as soon as possible. Get the police involved and an ambulance if you or someone else is severely injured. Even if you do not see an injury on your person, you should still seek medical attention to be sure. Plus, you will need documentation on your medical visit for your claim.
- File a Report: Do not forget to file a police report about the accident. If you do end up deciding to pursue legal action for negligent behavior, you will need a police report of the accident for the insurance companies.
- Gather Evidence: Make sure you get your Uber/Lyft driver’s name, their driver’s license number, and their insurance information. Interview any witnesses to the accident and get their information as well. You may need to contact them later. Photograph the scene of the accident, as well as any injuries sustained and property damage. Be sure to document when and where the accident took place, as it will be cleaned up.
- Do Not Admit Fault: In the event of an accident, you should never admit fault or guilt for the accident. Admitting guilt gives their insurance company an immediate advantage, and you may be known as the aggressor from the start of your claim. If you do have some fault for the accident, tell your lawyer, and they can help you figure that out.
- Get a Lawyer: Now that you’ve documented everything that you can, you should consult with an experienced accident attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer will be able to advise you of your next steps and represent your interests, including dealing with the insurance companies and with the rideshare company you are pursuing a claim against.
Due to a high number of drivers being involved in car accidents, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have begun to build quite a reputation for pushback with accident claims. They tend to aggressively deny any liability and fight most injury claims, as they do not want the potential case to hurt their company’s reputation. Hiring an attorney who can challenge their stance and fight for you could make or break your case.
FAQs
Q: How Much Will I Get from an Uber Settlement?
A: How much you will get from an Uber settlement can vary widely depending on the circumstances of your accident. Most Uber settlements are confidential, so there is no real average for settlement amounts. Uber carries significant insurance coverage to handle car accident claims, as they are not rare.
Depending on the severity of your injuries, property damage incurred as a result of the accident, and a good lawyer fighting on your behalf, you could potentially net an accident settlement of anywhere between $25,000 and $50,000, but it will depend on the details of your accident.
Q: How Much Can I Expect from a Car Accident Settlement in California?
A: The amount you can expect from a car accident settlement in California depends on many different factors. Every case is different. It depends on the severity of your injuries, the amount of property damage, the willingness of the insurance companies to pay out, and much more. The average car accident settlement amount in California is around $30,000, but that number could vary depending on the factors specific to your case.
Q: What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident Back and Neck Injury in California?
A: The average back and neck injury settlement in a car accident in California ranges from anywhere between $10,000 and $100,000, depending entirely on the specifics of your case and how serious your injury is. A genuine back and neck injury can be difficult to prove due to the initial shock from the accident masking the injury until much later, and certain soft tissue damage may not show up on an X-ray.
Q: How Much Compensation Can I Get for Whiplash and Back Pain?
A: In California, the average compensation you may get for whiplash and back pain due to the aftermath of a car accident ranges from $5,000 to $25,000 for mild to moderate cases and $30,000 to $100,000 for more serious cases. The amount of compensation you may receive will depend on the severity of your injuries and the details of your specific case, such as long-term effects and treatment.
Find the Car Accident Lawyer You Need
Dealing with a giant corporation like Uber or Lyft can be stressful and daunting. Their corporate mindset and tendency to be defensive when it comes to admitting guilt can make your fight seem like an uphill struggle you may not win.
That’s where Easton & Easton comes in. We know how to take on Uber and Lyft to help you recover the damages that you deserve. You will need someone on your side who knows how to take on big-name companies with you in mind. Contact us as soon as you can to schedule a consultation to learn how we can help.
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