Fresno Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Rideshare Accidents: Causes and Effects in Fresno

Ridesharing is a great solution to reducing the amount of drunk drivers, ease congestion, and make transportation more efficient. However, because on-demand transportation is continuously increasing, including delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash, add more vehicles to already crowded roads. This surge in traffic brings a higher risk of accidents.

As more drivers sign up for Uber and Lyft, traffic in Fresno gets more congested. Rideshare drivers often rush to complete as many trips as possible, increasing the chances of accidents. These crashes can cause serious injuries, emotional distress, and financial hardship for everyone involved.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

• Distracted Driving:  Rideshare drivers rely on their phones to accept rides and use GPS, which can take their attention off the road.
• Fatigue:  Many drivers work long hours, often late at night, increasing the risk of drowsy driving.
• Speeding:  Rushing to pick up or drop off passengers can lead to reckless driving.
• Inexperience:  Unlike taxi drivers, Uber and Lyft drivers don’t go through formal training, which can lead to mistakes.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance:  Some drivers may not keep up with regular car maintenance, leading to mechanical issues.
• Traffic and Road Conditions:  Congested areas, potholes, and unpredictable traffic make rideshare driving more challenging.

When these accidents happen, the results can be severe, ranging from minor fender-benders to serious crashes causing life-threatening injuries..

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, you shouldn’t have to face the aftermath by yourself. Thompson Law is here for you. Call us for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Locations For Rideshare Accidents in Fresno

Certain areas in Fresno are more prone to rideshare accidents due to heavy traffic, frequent pick-ups and drop-offs, and high-speed roads. Some of the most common accident hotspots include:

• Highway 41 Interchanges:  Rideshare drivers often enter and exit the freeway quickly to pick up or drop off passengers. Areas near Shaw Avenue and Herndon Avenue are particularly dangerous due to merging traffic and sudden lane changes.
• Downtown Fresno:  Streets near Courthouse Park, the Fulton Mall area, and popular nightlife spots see frequent Uber and Lyft activity. Sudden stops, double parking, and distracted driving contribute to accidents.
• Fresno State University Area:  Cedar Avenue and Shaw Avenue are packed with students using rideshares, often leading to quick stops, illegal U-turns, and pedestrian-related crashes.
• Fashion Fair Mall:  The roads and parking lots around this shopping center are busy with rideshare drivers picking up and dropping off passengers, especially during weekends and holidays. Confusion over pick-up locations and distracted driving make accidents common.
• Manchester Center:  This shopping area has frequent rideshare activity, leading to congestion, unexpected stops, and rear-end collisions.

If you were injured in a rideshare accident in any of these areas, a Fresno rideshare accident lawyer can help determine liability and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Fresno

Being involved in a rideshare accident is frightening, which is why it’s important to take the right steps in order to protect your health as well as legal rights.

1. Call 911 if anyone is injured, and make sure a police report is filed.
2. Gather Information from all involved parties, including drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Take pictures of the scene.
3. Seek Medical Attention, even if you don’t feel hurt immediately. Some injuries take time to appear.
4. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft through their app.
5. Contact a Fresno Rideshare Accident Lawyer to understand your legal options.

Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents in Fresno

Figuring out who is at fault in a rideshare crash can be complicated. The insurance coverage depends on whether the Uber or Lyft driver was actively working when the accident happened. Establishing liability involves gathering evidence, reviewing app data, and analyzing the details of the accident.

• If the driver was off-duty, their personal car insurance applies.
• If the driver was waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited insurance coverage.
• If the driver was on the way to pick up a passenger or had someone in the car, Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability coverage.

In some cases, another driver may be at fault, meaning their insurance should cover the damages. If the rideshare driver was negligent, both their insurance and the rideshare company’s policy could come into play. Because insurance companies often try to avoid paying out claims, getting legal help can make a big difference.

What Compensation Can I Receive After a Rideshare Accident in Fresno?

Dealing with insurance is normally confusing if you’re involved in a rideshare accident in Fresno. Compared to regular car accidents, where the driver’s insurance usually covers damages, rideshare accidents involve more layers of insurance from companies such as Uber and Lyft. The amount of coverage depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.

Below are the types of compensation our Fresno rideshare accident lawyers can help pursue for victims:

• Medical Expenses:  Covers costs related to injury treatment, such as emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for income lost due to inability to work during recovery.
• Property Damage:  Reimbursement for repair or replacement of damaged property, like your vehicle.
• Pain and Suffering:  Monetary compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from the accident.
• Punitive Damages:  In cases of extreme negligence or misconduct, additional damages intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.
• Rideshare Insurance Coverage:  Depending on whether the rideshare driver was on their way to a pickup or transporting passengers, the company’s insurance can provide additional compensation beyond the driver’s personal insurance.

It’s important to know how these compensation options work in rideshare accidents in order to recover the financial compensation you deserve. Reach out to our experienced Fresno rideshare accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION to explore your options and maximize your recovery.

Common Injuries from Rideshare Accidents in Fresno

Accidents involving rideshare vehicles, such as those with Uber or Lyft, can cause injuries similar to any other car crash. These injuries can range from minor to life-changing. Even a minor collision might leave passengers with whiplash, bruises, or cuts caused by unsecured objects inside the car. In more severe accidents, the injuries can be much more serious.

Rideshare accidents may result in more serious injuries because of when and where these services are typically used. Many people use rideshares late at night, when they may have been drinking, or in areas with heavy traffic. These factors can create tough driving conditions, increasing the chance of accidents. If a driver is distracted or not paying attention, passengers can bear the consequences.

If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, make sure you get medical attention right away. Getting checked out and starting your recovery process is very important, so don’t wait it out. Also, don’t forget to pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.

You have the right to seek help from Thompson Law’s Fresno rideshare accident attorneys. We are available 24/7 to help you with everything, from your medical treatment to dealing with insurance companies.

We’ve helped clients recover compensation for injuries such as:

• Cuts and bruises
• Whiplash
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Broken bones
• Spinal injuries
• Paralysis
• Neck injuries
• Spinal disc injuries
• Back injuries
• Sprains and strains
• Muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries
• Joint injuries and trauma
• Internal injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Amputations
• Dismemberment
• Wrongful death

Medical Centers in Fresno

Getting the right medical care is needed for your recovery. Fresno is home to several reputable medical centers that can provide the treatment and support you need. These facilities offer everything from emergency services to specialized care, ensuring you get the attention you deserve after an accident. Below are some of the trusted medical centers in the county.

• Community Regional Medical Center:  Known for its trauma center and emergency services, this hospital provides immediate care for serious injuries.
• Saint Agnes Medical Center:  A trusted provider with advanced medical treatments, including surgical care and rehabilitation services.
• VA Central California Health Care System:  Offering healthcare specifically for veterans, this facility provides specialized care for those who served in the military.
• Kaiser Permanente Medical:  Known for its comprehensive healthcare services, Kaiser offers everything from urgent care to long-term treatment for injuries.

Why You Need Legal Representation for Your Rideshare Case

After any car accident, having a lawyer on your side is always a good idea. Rideshare accidents come with their own set of challenges, especially when it comes to figuring out who is responsible and dealing with insurance. The process can be tricky, which is why it’s important to have an experienced attorney guiding you.

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service in Fresno, now is the time to reach out for legal help. Contact our Fresno rideshare accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION. Taking this step is the first move towards getting the compensation you deserve.

No Upfront Costs Charged by Our Fresno Rideshare Accident Lawyers

At Thompson Law, we don’t charge anything upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay us unless we win your case. If we don’t win, you don’t owe us a thing.

Our goal is to help you recover and move forward. Our bilingual team is ready to assist you 24/7, every day of the year. From the moment you are injured to when you finally get your settlement, we are here to support you every step of the way. Reach out for your FREE CONSULTATION today.

Fresno Rideshare Accident Attorneys FAQs

How does Fresno law handle rideshare accident liability?

Fresno law requires rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to maintain certain insurance policies for their drivers. But liability depends on the driver’s status, whether they were logged into the app, en route to pick up a passenger, or actually transporting someone when the accident occurred. To figure out who’s responsible, it often requires looking into the app records, driver behavior, and other evidence.

Can I file a claim against the rideshare company directly?

Uber and Lyft often avoid direct responsibility for accidents by classifying their drivers as independent contractors. However, these companies’ commercial insurance policies do provide coverage when the driver is actively transporting a passenger or en route to one. A skilled attorney can help identify who is at fault and file the claim against the right insurance policy.

What should I do if I’m injured as a passenger in a rideshare accident?

If you’re hurt in a rideshare accident, your first priority should be getting medical care. After that, make sure to document the accident: take note of the driver, the vehicle, and any witnesses. It’s also crucial to get in touch with a rideshare accident attorney who can help you navigate the insurance claims process and get compensation for your injuries.

Are there different insurance requirements for Uber and Lyft drivers in Fresno?

Both Uber and Lyft drivers are required to have their own personal auto insurance. When they are logged into the app, the companies’ commercial policies provide additional coverage. The coverage levels differ depending on whether the driver is waiting for a ride, on the way to pick up a passenger, or already transporting someone.

How long do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident in Fresno?

You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in Fresno. But some situations can change this time frame, like if the claim involves a government entity or if a minor is involved. That’s why it’s a good idea to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to make sure you don’t miss any deadlines.