San Jose Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Are You a Victim of a Rideshare Accident in San Jose?

Since Uber’s introduction in San Jose in 2010, along with other services like Lyft, Wingz, and Curb, ridesharing has become a key part of the city’s transportation system. These services offer convenient travel options for both locals and visitors, whether it’s for daily commutes or trips to the airport.

As San Jose’s population has grown, so has the number of vehicles on its roads. This increase has led to more traffic congestion and a higher chance of accidents, including those involving rideshare vehicles. Collisions with Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare cars can be as serious as any other vehicle accident, potentially causing severe injuries, emotional distress, and financial difficulties.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in San Jose, Thompson Law is here to help. Our experienced San Jose rideshare accident lawyers are skilled in handling the unique challenges of these cases, such as dealing with insurance companies and determining who is at fault. Let us work to secure the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery. Contact Thompson Law today for a FREE CONSULTATION and take the first step toward healing.

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What Compensation Can I Receive After a Rideshare Accident in San Jose?

Rideshare accidents in San Jose involve unique legal and insurance considerations compared to typical car accidents, primarily due to the additional insurance coverage provided by companies like Uber and Lyft during specific operational phases.

Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

  • Medical Expenses:  This covers costs for treatments related to injuries, such as emergency care, hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost Wages Compensation for earnings lost due to temporary or permanent inability to work resulting from accident-related injuries.
  • Property Damage Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of damaged personal vehicles or other property.
  • Pain and Suffering Monetary compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life ccident.
  • Punitive Damages In cases of extreme negligence or misconduct, damages intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.
  • Rideshare Insurance Coverage:  Depending on whether the rideshare driver was en route to pick up a passenger or transporting passengers, the company’s insurance may provide additional compensation beyond the driver’s personal insurance.

Understanding how these compensation options apply to rideshare accidents can significantly impact your financial recovery. Consulting with one of our experienced San Jose rideshare accident attorney can help you explore your options and maximize your compensation.

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(844) 308-8180

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best personal injury law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated personal injury attorneys who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let a personal injury case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law‘s San Jose rideshare accident lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents in San Jose

Figuring out who is responsible in rideshare accidents can be complicated, especially when determining if the driver was actively working for the rideshare company (picking up or transporting passengers) or driving for personal reasons. This distinction depends on whether the driver was using the rideshare app, which tracks active rides and determines insurance coverage.

  • If the Driver Was On Duty:  The company’s commercial insurance may apply.
  • If the Driver Was Off Duty:  The driver’s personal insurance typically handles the claim.

Establishing liability involves gathering evidence, reviewing app data, and analyzing the details of the accident.

Thompson Law’s San Jose rideshare accident attorneys have the expertise to thoroughly assess your case, identify all responsible parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Call our Rideshare Accident Attorneys for a Free Case Review

Having a lawyer on your side after a car accident is always a smart decision, but rideshare accidents come with extra challenges. Determining who is responsible and dealing with insurance companies can be complicated, especially when a company like Uber or Lyft is involved. A skilled rideshare accident attorney can help you through this process and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

If you were hurt in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, delivery driver, or commercial vehicle in San Jose, now is the time to take action. Call our San Jose rideshare accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Insurance Coverage in San Jose Rideshare Accidents

Navigating insurance claims after a rideshare accident in San Jose can be complex because of the unique nature of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. Unlike traditional auto accidents, these incidents involve evolving laws and technologies, making it challenging to determine insurance coverage and liability.

In San Jose, Uber and Lyft have specific insurance requirements for their drivers. Here’s a breakdown of their coverage:

Uber’s Insurance Coverage for San Jose Rideshare Accidents

Uber’s insurance coverage varies based on the driver’s activity in the app:

Offline

  • Only the driver’s personal insurance applies.
  • Drivers must maintain San Jose’s minimum insurance requirements.
  • Uber’s coverage does not apply.

Online but No Ride Accepted

  • Third-Party Liability:
    • $50,000 per person for injuries.
    • $100,000 per accident for injuries.
    • $25,000 for property damage.
  • This coverage may also encompass uninsured/underinsured motorist protection and personal injury protection (PIP), depending on San Jose regulations.

En Route or During a Trip

  • Third-party liability coverage of at least $1,000,000 for property damage and injuries
  • Comprehensive and collision coverage for vehicle repairs up to the car’s actual cash value, with a $2,500 deductible, provided the driver’s personal policy includes such coverage
  • Additional protections may involve uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, PIP, and Optional Injury Protection for drivers.

While Uber’s policies aim to offer substantial protection, specific conditions and exceptions can affect coverage. If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, consulting with a San Jose rideshare accident attorney can help you navigate the claims process effectively.

Lyft Insurance Coverage

  • Base Coverage (When App is On but No Ride Accepted):
    • $50,000 per person for bodily injury.
    • $100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
    • $25,000 for property damage.
  • Coverage During Pickup or Ride:
    • $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage.
    • $250,000 in uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) bodily injury coverage.
    • Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage with a $2,500 deductible, covering physical damage up to the vehicle’s cash value if the driver has comprehensive and collision coverage on their personal policy.

Despite these outlined coverages, various restrictions and exceptions can complicate the claims process. Coverage varies based on the driver’s status (active on the app, en route to a passenger, or off-duty) and the applicability of the driver’s personal insurance policy.

For assistance in understanding your options and pursuing a successful claim, contact our San Jose rideshare accident attorney at (844) 308-8180. They can guide you through each step of your case to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

No Upfront Costs Charged by Our San Jose Rideshare Accident Lawyers

At Thompson Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. If we don’t secure compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

We are dedicated to helping you recover physically, financially, and emotionally after an accident. Our team is available 24/7 to support you through every step of the legal process. From your first phone call to the moment you receive your settlement, we will be there to fight for you.

Why Choose Thompson Law

Common Injuries from Rideshare Accidents in San Jose

Rideshare accidents can result in injuries similar to those sustained in other car crashes, ranging from minor to severe. Even in minor collisions, passengers may experience whiplash, seat belt injuries, or cuts from unsecured objects inside the vehicle. In more serious accidents, injuries can be life-altering.

The risk of severe injuries may be higher in rideshare incidents due to factors such as late-night driving, transporting passengers who have been drinking, or operating in high-traffic areas. These conditions create challenging driving environments for rideshare drivers, increasing the likelihood of accidents. If a driver is distracted or careless, passengers may suffer the consequences.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact Thompson Law’s San Jose rideshare accident attorneys and you’ll be provided guidance throughout the process, from managing medical treatment to negotiating with insurance companies.

Common injuries sustained in rideshare accidents include:

  • 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

At Thompson Law

We provide dedicated legal representation for victims of rideshare accidents, ensuring you receive a fair settlement for your claim. Our experienced San Jose rideshare accident attorneys will build a strong case supported by solid evidence to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

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Rideshare Accidents: Causes and Effects in San Jose

The growth of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft has changed how people and goods move around San Jose. In fact, the ridesharing market is valued at $147.28 billion in 2024. While these services offer many benefits, they also bring new risks to road safety.

Ridesharing can help reduce the number of drunk drivers, ease traffic congestion, and make transportation more efficient. However, the increase in on-demand transportation, including delivery services like Uber Eats and Amazon vans, adds more vehicles to already busy roads. This surge in traffic increases the risk of accidents.

Many rideshare accidents have causes similar to typical car crashes, but the nature of the job adds unique risks. Drivers often rely heavily on technology during trips, using phones to manage rides and GPS to navigate. They may also work irregular hours, leading to fatigue. Unlike professional drivers, rideshare drivers usually don’t receive formal training, which can lead to mistakes on the road.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

  • Distracted Driving:  Using phones to manage rides or follow GPS can take attention away from the road.
  • Driver Errors:  Mistakes like not staying in lanes, losing control, or failing to communicate with other drivers.
  • Speeding:  Driving too fast, especially on unfamiliar roads or in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
  • Low Visibility at Night:  Challenges from bright lights, crowded venues, and the difficulties of nighttime driving.
  • Vehicle Maintenance Issues:  Problems arising from faulty parts or lack of proper upkeep.
  • Road Conditions:  Hazards like bad weather, debris, or poorly maintained roads.
  • Driver Fatigue:  Long, irregular hours can lead to drowsy driving.
  • Traffic Congestion:  Heavy traffic and chaotic areas, often where rideshare demand is highest.

These accidents can have serious consequences, leading to collisions such as rollovers, rear-end crashes, head-on impacts, and side-impact (T-bone) accidents. These crashes can cause severe injuries or even fatalities.

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Thompson Law’s San Jose rideshare accident attorneys today for the best expert legal assistance. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve!

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in San Jose

If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, it’s crucial to document the incident thoroughly to protect your rights and seek fair compensation. Follow these steps to ensure the event is properly recorded:

  1. Call 911 Immediately:  Especially if there are serious injuries, request emergency assistance right away.
  2. Collect Information:  Gather details about all involved parties, including drivers, vehicles, passengers, and witnesses. Work with law enforcement to ensure all information is accurately noted.

Accurate documentation is important in any motor vehicle accident to help ensure justice and secure rightful compensation for injuries and damages.

San Jose Rideshare Accidents FAQs

How does San Jose law handle rideshare accident liability?

Liability in a rideshare accident depends on whether the driver was actively using the rideshare app at the time of the crash. If the driver was off duty, their personal insurance applies. If they were waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company provides limited coverage. If they had accepted a ride or were transporting a passenger, the company’s full commercial policy is in effect. Determining liability often requires looking at app records, driver behavior, and insurance policies.

Can I file a claim against the rideshare company directly?

Rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, which helps them avoid direct responsibility for accidents. However, their commercial insurance policies often cover damages when a driver is actively working. An attorney can help determine which insurance policy applies and ensure that you file your claim correctly.

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

If you were hurt while riding in an Uber or Lyft, your priority should be getting medical attention. After that, document as much information as possible, including the driver’s details, vehicle information, and witness statements. Report the accident to the rideshare company through their app and contact a lawyer to help with your claim.

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

Both Uber and Lyft require their drivers to have personal auto insurance, but they also provide additional coverage while the driver is using the app. The amount of coverage depends on whether the driver is waiting for a request, on the way to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting someone. These coverage limits can impact how much compensation you receive.

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

In San Jose, the deadline for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, exceptions exist, such as claims involving government vehicles or minors. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible will help ensure that you meet all necessary deadlines.

Thompson Law Guarantee

Thompson Law charges NO FEE unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We’ve put over $1.9 billion in cash settlements in our clients’ pockets. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get your questions answered, and understand your legal options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.