Ontario Rideshare Accident Attorney

Unlike traditional vehicle collisions, rideshare accidents bring in additional parties and factors that make getting fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage more complex. With our rideshare accident attorney, you can get help understanding these complexities and ensure fair compensation after an Uber or Lyft accident. 

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Why Choose a Banderas Law Ontario Rideshare Accident Attorney?

Banderas Law attorneys understand how to apply California “at fault” laws to rideshare accidents, from minor fender benders to severe collisions. Our 20 years of experience gives us an advantage in navigating through the complexities of these laws and getting you the compensation you deserve for expenses incurred from the accident. 

Our Ontario, California location serves English and Spanish speakers in the San Bernardino County area. Because we know how urgent filing a claim and getting compensation can be after experiencing a car accident, our Ontario, California personal injury attorneys offer 24-hour FREE case evaluations to help victims start their journey toward justice. 

At Bandareas Law, we believe that every rideshare accident victim deserves comprehensive and compassionate legal advice. This core principle has earned our team multiple accolades in the legal community and a reputation for being reliable, trusted advisors. 

Why Do I Need an Ontario, California Rideshare Accident Attorney?

It may seem like filing a claim and seeking compensation for a rideshare accident would be a simple process, but the reality is that it can quickly become overwhelming and complicated. These factors can lead to severe delays and disputes in receiving fair compensation. 

The biggest challenge is that rideshare companies have their own insurance policies and protocols. For example, Uber and Lyft’s $1 million insurance coverage only applies when a driver is logged into the app, and even then, it may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. 

With Banderas Law helping you navigate the complex legal landscape of rideshare accidents, you can focus on recovering from your injuries and returning to your daily life. Our team will handle all communication with insurance companies and fight for your rights to maximum compensation. 

Who Is Liable for a Rideshare Accident in California?

No matter what part of the state you live in, California has an “at fault” system for car accidents. This means that the driver deemed responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for covering the expenses of those injured in the crash. 

But in a rideshare accident, determining liability is far more complicated. 

Rideshare drivers are legally required to carry car insurance that covers them while using their vehicle for personal use.

However, when they log into the rideshare app and transport passengers, they fall under the company’s commercial insurance coverage in one of three tiers:

• Tier 1: The driver is logged into the app but has no ride request during the accident. Their personal insurance and the rideshare company’s contingent coverage may apply in this case.
• Tier 2: The driver has a ride request and is on route to pick up passengers or currently has passengers in the vehicle. The rideshare company’s $1 million commercial insurance coverage may apply.
• Tier 3: The driver is involved in an accident while transporting passengers. In this case, the $1 million commercial insurance coverage and any additional damages covered by the rideshare company’s policy may apply.

These tiers mean that liability can fall on either the driver, the rideshare company, other involved parties, or all of the above, depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. This is where having an experienced rideshare accident attorney in Ontario, California can make all the difference in getting you the compensation you deserve. 

Where Do Rideshare Accidents in Ontario, California Occur?

Rideshare accidents can occur anywhere in Ontario, California, just like any other car accident.

However, particular areas may have a higher likelihood of these accidents due to the high volume of rideshare activity.

• Busy shopping centers and malls
• Popular tourist destinations 
• Major highways and freeways like the I-10, I-15, or SR 60

No matter where your rideshare accident occurred in Ontario, California, Banderas Law is here to help you navigate the legal process of filing a claim and getting the compensation you deserve.

What Injuries Can You Get in a Rideshare Accident?

Rideshare accidents result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment.

Some common injuries that can occur in a rideshare accident include:

• Whiplash
• Head and brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries 
• Soft tissue injuries 

In-vehicle accidents aren’t the only injuries sustained in a vehicle collision.

Data suggests that pedestrian and bicycle accidents with a rideshare vehicle are on the rise, with ER rooms seeing an increase in injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries 
• Fractures
• Lacerations and bruises 

Outside of physical injury, rideshare accidents in Ontario can lead to emotional trauma as well, with many reporting the following conditions after an accident:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Anxiety and depression 
• Fear of riding in vehicles 

Last but not least, rideshare accidents in Ontario, do not just damage you; they can also result in financial losses, such as:

• Loss of income due to inability to work 
• Medical expenses 
• Property/Vehicle damage 

This list of potential damages common in minor and severe rideshare accidents can quickly add up, resulting in a significant financial burden for victims.

How Much Does a Rideshare Accident Cost Victims?

By understanding the potential costs of medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, you can get an idea of how much a rideshare accident could affect your financial situation.

Medical Expenses

The most phenomenal cost of a rideshare accident is medical expenses.

Common medical expenses include but aren’t limited to:

• On-scene medical treatment – $350 to $1,000+
• Ambulance fees – $500 to $1,000+
• Emergency room visit – $2,960+
• Hospital stay – up to $4,000+ per day
• Non-surgical treatment – $1,000+ 
• Surgical procedures – $17,000 to $35,000+
• Scans and diagnostic tests – $2,000+
• Medication – $50 to $200+ per prescription
• Medical devices – $200 to $25,000

In addition to these immediate medical costs, victims may also find themselves burdened with long-term medical expenses for ongoing treatment and physical rehabilitation. 

In California, the average cost of these therapies is $100 to $400+ per session, and victims may require multiple sessions a week for months or years to overcome the effects of their injuries.

Lost Income

Rideshare accidents can also result in lost wages for victims who cannot work due to injuries. This includes not only the time missed from work immediately after the accident but also future income loss if the victim is unable to return to work or has reduced earning capacity due to permanent injury. 

Lost wages also include benefits such as sick leave, vacation time, and bonuses that the victim may have received if not for the accident. Depending on their occupation and income level, this can result in a significant financial loss for rideshare accident victims, making it harder to cover medical expenses and other costs associated with the accident.

Property/Vehicle Damage

In a rideshare accident, damage to personal property such as vehicles and phones is just as common as physical injuries.

Costs for repair or replacement of personal property average:

• Vehicle repairs – up to $2,500+
• Vehicle replacement – $15,000+
• Cell phone replacement – $500 to $1,200+
• Personal belongings (laptop, watch, etc.) – $500 to $3,000+ 

Though personal belongings and property may seem insignificant in the wake of a rideshare accident, the loss or damage of these items only adds to the financial stress and burden placed on rideshare accident victims. 

Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress

Pain and suffering damages may include:

• Physical pain.
• Emotional distress.
• Loss of enjoyment of life.
• Mental anguish caused by the accident and resulting injuries.

Considering that the cost of anxiety or trauma therapy in California often exceeds $200 per session, it is essential to speak with an Ontario, California rideshare accident attorney to understand the full extent of your potential damages and how to claim them.

How Much Is My Rideshare Accident Case Worth?

In traditional car accidents, the value of a case may be more evident due to insurance policies and state laws dictating compensation.

However, in rideshare accidents that have occurred within the two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, many factors can impact the value of your case, such as:

• Insurance coverage limits for the rideshare company
• Your own personal car insurance policy
• The severity of your injuries 
• Negligence on behalf of the rideshare driver or company 
• Contributing factors (e.g., weather, road conditions)

Additionally, if you are found to be at any level of fault for the accident, California’s comparative negligence system may reduce the amount of compensation you are eligible for. 

These variables are why it is crucial to have dedicated rideshare accident attorneys on your side who can help you navigate these complex factors and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.

Should I Settle With An Insurance Company After A Rideshare Accident in Ontario, California?

It is not recommended to settle with an insurance company after a rideshare accident in Ontario, California, without first consulting with an experienced attorney. Insurance companies are often quick to offer settlements that may seem fair at first, but in reality, they may be significantly lower than the actual value of your case. 

By working with Banderas Law, we can help negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure you are not taken advantage of in a vulnerable time. We have the knowledge, resources, and experience to accurately assess the value of your case and fight for fair compensation for all damages incurred.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident?

Call the police.

The police report will be a crucial piece of evidence in your case, especially if there are discrepancies about the details of the accident. Additionally, contacting the police will ensure that all parties receive medical attention if necessary and that traffic violations or crimes are properly documented. 

Exchange information with all involved parties.

Be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the Uber or Lyft driver and any other drivers or passengers involved in the accident. This will help in filing a claim with insurance companies and determining liability for the accident.

Document everything.

Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and visible injuries. Keep track of all medical expenses and any other costs incurred due to the accident. This will help in accurately assessing the damages and proving liability.

Seek medical attention immediately.

Even if you do not believe you have sustained serious injuries, it is vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident. Some injuries may not become apparent until days or weeks after the accident, and documenting your injuries and treatment is crucial for building a solid case.

Contact Banderas Law. 

An experienced and dedicated Ontario, California rideshare accident attorney from Banderas Law can help guide you through the legal process and fight for fair settlement on your behalf. We thoroughly understand California’s rideshare laws and will work tirelessly to ensure the justice and compensation you deserve. 

Get a Compassionate & Dedicated Ontario, California Rideshare Accident Attorney at Banderas Law

Your rideshare accident doesn’t have to leave you feeling alone and overwhelmed. At Banderas Law, our rideshare accident attorneys will stand by your side every step of the way and fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve. 

Fight back against the physical, financial, and emotional damages caused by a rideshare accident and Contact Banderas Law today at (909) 600-0000.

Our Ontario Location

Banderas Law, PC
3401 N Centre Lake Dr #470
Ontario, CA 91761
Tel: (909) 707-0000