Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP: Representation for Your California Ridesharing Accident Claim
Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP, has a rich history of advocating for clients’ rights, negotiating substantial settlements, and winning cases in court. We represent those who have suffered wrongs due to the negligence of others and fight tirelessly to ensure that they receive the justice they deserve.
Our Success Stories
Over the years, we have represented numerous clients involved in ridesharing accidents, securing significant compensation for their injuries and losses. Our successful case outcomes are a testament to our knowledge and commitment. We handle all cases with the utmost professionalism and dedication, from whiplash injuries to wrongful death claims. These successes reinforce our credibility and make us a formidable opponent in the courtroom.
Client-First Philosophy
At Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP, we put our clients first. We prioritize getting you the compensation you deserve. As a victim, you may feel neglected, or perhaps you are struggling to work out how to get insurance companies to take you seriously. We put your needs at the forefront so you can get the help and support you deserve.
Making Legal Representation Affordable
Dealing with a ridesharing accident can feel incredibly expensive. Not only do you have immense medical bills to consider, but you may also miss time at work. Costs should not prohibit legal support. At Reiner, Slaughter, & Frankel, LLP, we offer a free consultation to understand your needs and injuries. We take cases on a contingent fee basis, which means you do not pay until we win.
Understanding Ridesharing Accidents Across California
The rapid increase in the use of ridesharing platforms such as Uber and Lyft has revolutionized the transportation sector. This new mode of transportation has not been without its challenges, however, particularly when it comes to accidents and legal battles.
Ridesharing drivers do not receive any special training or support, so they have the same risk of causing an accident as any other driver. When you need to file a ridesharing accident claim, you may find yourself up against powerful ridesharing companies who will fight aggressively to reduce the compensation they must pay.
Common Causes of Ridesharing Accidents
Many factors contribute to ridesharing accidents:
- Distracted driving: Ridesharing drivers often have their app open and consult it while driving. California’s distracted driving laws prohibit driving while using a cell phone, including a ridesharing app. Many drivers, however, continue to use them to check destinations, find riders, or find the best route.
- Driving while fatigued: Drowsy driving can have extreme consequences. Drivers who have spent too many hours on the road during peak hours in an effort to make more money can fall asleep behind the wheel, risking an accident.
- Negligence in vehicle maintenance: Ridesharing drivers’ vehicles receive a lot of use and require frequent maintenance. Unfortunately, drivers may fail to perform these checks, increasing the risk of tire blowouts, steering failures, and brake problems.
- Ignoring the rules of the road: Ridesharing drivers can earn more by getting to their destinations quickly and picking up another ride. They may disregard basic traffic regulations. Speeding, ignoring traffic lights and signs, and aggressive driving can all increase the risk of an accident.
Ridesharing companies do not conduct any testing to determine driver competence, so their pool of drivers includes young and inexperienced drivers.
Unique Challenges and Complexities of Ridesharing Accident Claims in California
Accidents involving ridesharing platforms come with unique challenges. Legal complexities can arise due to the number of parties involved; these include the ridesharing company, driver, passengers, and other drivers and pedestrians. Questions about insurance coverage, liability, and jurisdiction further complicate these cases.
Understanding these complexities and successfully navigating the legal landscape requires thorough knowledge of state laws and regulations regarding ridesharing services—something our team at Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP, brings to the table for each client.
Understanding Your Rights in California Ridesharing Accidents
As a victim of a ridesharing accident, you need to know your rights and potential liabilities, whether you are a passenger, driver, or third party. Below, we shed light on the complex legal landscape of ridesharing accidents and guide you toward the right path.
Legal Rights of Passengers, Drivers, and Third Parties
The rights of each party depend on the specifics of the accident. Passengers may claim compensation from the insurance company of the ridesharing company, driver, or third party, depending on who bears fault for the accident.
Whether drivers have coverage under the ridesharing company’s commercial insurance policy depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Other third parties involved in the accident also have the right to compensation, and these claims can prove convoluted.
If you carry MedPay insurance as a California driver, you have coverage for any injuries you sustain in an accident, regardless of who caused it. You may have recourse to this policy to cover the damages associated with the accident.
Potential Liability of Ridesharing Companies After an Accident in California
Determining the liability of ridesharing companies can prove challenging due to the contractual relationship between the drivers and the companies. These corporations typically maintain that drivers are independent contractors rather than employees.
Under California law, however, ridesharing companies can still be held liable, and victims can claim against the company’s insurance policy. In certain circumstances, California classifies ridesharing drivers as employees, meaning ridesharing companies may face liability for their employees’ actions.
Ridesharing companies may also bear liability when they fail to take adequate steps to monitor their drivers. If a driver exhibits dangerous behaviors, the company may be liable if they do nothing about it. Ridesharing companies may also bear liability for employing drivers who have a significant history of accidents, driving while intoxicated, or dangerous behavior.
Understanding your rights and determining liability in a ridesharing accident is a complex process. Our team at Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP, has the necessary experience and knowledge to steer you through this legal maze and fight for your compensation.
Compensation in California Ridesharing Accident Claims
Following a ridesharing accident, victims deserve compensation for damages. You may have the right to pursue various types of damages, including compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. The courts may also award punitive damages in some cases due to the reckless or dangerous behavior of the driver.
The Potential Value of a Ridesharing Accident Claim in California
The value of a ridesharing accident claim varies significantly according to the severity of the injury, the extent of loss, the degree of fault, and insurance policies. While we cannot value your claim without examining the details of your case, our experienced attorneys at Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP, can guide you through the process and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
The Role of Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a ridesharing accident, seeking legal representation can protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We can collect and preserve any evidence from your accident to identify liable parties and deal with the insurance company. Keep in mind that the insurance company may try to reduce the compensation you can recover. Our attorneys will fight for the maximum amount.
How to Protect Yourself After a California Ridesharing Accident
After an accident, you need to focus on your immediate needs: getting to a safe place, seeking medical attention, reporting the accident, and obtaining help from the police. Next, you need to take clear steps to protect your right to compensation.
Do not ignore your medical care needs! If symptoms emerge after the accident, seek medical attention as soon as you notice them.
Follow all your medical care provider’s instructions. Your care team wants to maximize your odds of making a full recovery. Failing to follow their advice could prevent you from seeking the full compensation you deserve.
As you recover, carefully track all your medical expenses and ongoing costs, including copay and deductible amounts and the bills that may come in after treatment so you can include them in your comprehensive ridesharing accident claim.
Finally, avoid talking to the insurance company until you have hired an attorney. The insurance company may try to limit the compensation you can recover or even pressure you into accepting an unfair settlement offer. An attorney will represent you in the process to ensure a fair resolution.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Help Soon After the Incident
The sooner you seek legal help, the better your chances of obtaining rightful compensation. Time is of the essence in these cases, not just due to the legal time limits for filing a claim under the statute of limitations but also because valuable evidence can disappear as time passes.
Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP, can immediately investigate your case, preserve evidence, and build a strong claim on your behalf.
Reiner, Slaughter & Frankel, LLP, can represent you in the claim process and advise you on your next steps. Contact us at (530) 241-0290 for your free consultation to discuss your rights and begin the claim process.
Reiner, Slaughter, & Frankel, LLP – Redding Office
2851 Park Marina Dr STE 200
Redding, CA 96001
Phone: (530) 241-0290
