Santa Monica Uber Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident, you may be dealing with pain, inability to go to work, mounting medical bills, and copious amounts of stress. Even knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming. Our Santa Monica, CA Uber accident lawyer is here to stand by your side, guide you through the claims process, and advocate for the full compensation you deserve. Contact our personal injury team at the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today for a free consultation.

Uber Accident Lawyer Santa Monica, CA

We represent clients across California who have been hurt in Uber-related accidents, including passengers injured while riding in an Uber, pedestrians or cyclists struck by an Uber driver, and passengers in another car injured in a crash involving an Uber.

Uber accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from whiplash and fractures to catastrophic injuries like spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, or lasting soft tissue trauma. On top of physical recovery, many clients also face emotional distress and financial instability from medical expenses.

These cases often feel more complex than typical car accidents. Uber’s insurers and the driver’s insurer may try to shift blame or minimize payouts, leaving victims in limbo. As your Santa Monica Uber accident lawyers, we’re here to hold the responsible parties accountable and handle these high-stakes cases on your behalf so you can focus on healing.

Why Experience Matters In Uber Accident Cases

Because Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors, accident cases usually involve multiple layers of insurance coverage. Whether Uber’s $1 million liability policy applies depends on the stage of the ride; for example, whether the driver was waiting for a passenger, en route to pick someone up, or actively transporting a rider.

Navigating these details takes experience and skill. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we know the tactics insurers use to reduce payouts, and we don’t back down. Here are some factors that set our firm apart:

• 45+ Years Of Personal Injury Law Experience. Our team brings over four decades of combined experience handling serious injury cases, including dog bites, motor vehicle accidents, and dangerous property conditions.
• Skill Backed By Quality Education. James V. Choulos earned his J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law, and Victor Tsoi earned his J.D. from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, complementing their strong academic foundations with practical courtroom experience.
• Track Record Of Substantial Settlements. James and Victor have secured significant settlements and verdicts for clients facing life-changing injuries, demonstrating their ability to advocate effectively for compensation.
• Active Legal Leadership. Both of our lead attorneys participate in the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association (SFTLA), with James also active in the Consumer Attorneys of California and the American Association for Justice (AAJ), reflecting their engagement in the broader legal community.
• Client-Focused Representation. Our firm is committed to hands-on, compassionate representation, listening closely to clients’ concerns and developing strategies tailored to each case’s unique circumstances.

Our accolades speak to both our ability to manage serious injury cases and our dedication to helping clients rebuild their lives after devastating crashes. When Uber’s insurance isn’t paying what you need after a crash, we’re ready to put our experience to work on your behalf.

Let Us Help You

An Uber accident can change your life in an instant, but you don’t have to endure the costs by yourself. Our Santa Monica accident attorneys are here to provide compassionate support and a clear path forward. Call us at the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today to request your free consultation and take the first step toward justice.

Types Of Uber Accident Cases We Handle

Accidents involving Uber vehicles can result in serious injuries, property damage, and financial strain. When another driver’s negligence or unsafe road conditions contribute to an accident, victims should not have to bear the burden alone. Our Santa Monica Uber accident lawyer is here to help you recover the compensation you need. Below are some different types of Uber cases we take on:

• Collisions With Other Vehicles. Many Uber accidents involve traditional motor vehicle collisions. These can include rear-end crashes, T-bone accidents, or multi-car pileups. When an Uber driver or another motorist is at fault, victims may face serious injuries, including broken bones, whiplash, or spinal trauma. Our Santa Monica Uber accident lawyer works to hold negligent drivers accountable and seeks compensation for the full impact of your injuries.

• Single-Vehicle Wrecks. These accidents can occur if an Uber driver loses control, backs into a wall or pole, swerves off the road, or collides with stationary objects. These accidents can cause serious injuries to passengers and damage to personal property. Our team can investigate the circumstances, examine vehicle records, and pursue claims against the Uber driver or other responsible parties when appropriate.

• Pedestrian And Cyclist Accidents. Uber accidents don’t just involve other cars. Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable when struck by a vehicle. Injuries from these types of rideshare accidents can be severe, including fractures, head trauma, and long-term rehabilitation needs. Our team can help collect evidence, document injuries, and negotiate with insurance companies to protect your rights and recovery.

• Defective Vehicles. Mechanical failures or defective components in an Uber vehicle can result in crashes. Faulty brakes, airbags, or tires may cause serious harm. In these cases, liability can extend beyond the driver to manufacturers or repair shops. Our legal team carefully examines vehicle maintenance records and mechanical evidence to identify responsible parties and support your claim.

• Driver Negligence And Distraction. Uber drivers, like all motorists, can make mistakes that lead to accidents. Distracted driving, speeding, fatigue, or failure to follow traffic laws can all contribute to crashes. Our Santa Monica rideshare accident lawyer helps victims hold negligent drivers accountable for the harm caused by reckless or inattentive behavior.

• Unsafe Road Conditions. Potholes, debris, or poorly maintained streets can contribute to Uber accidents. Even if a driver is not directly at fault, liability may extend to property owners or municipalities responsible for the road conditions. Our Santa Monica Uber accident lawyers can investigate the circumstances, gather evidence, and pursue claims on your behalf when unsafe conditions lead to injury.

• Fatal Accidents. Tragically, some Uber accidents result in fatalities. Families of victims may pursue wrongful death claims to recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional trauma. Our team works with compassion and diligence to support families during this difficult time and to advocate for meaningful recovery.

Your Case Matters

If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, it’s important to have experienced legal guidance on your side. Our auto accident attorneys can help investigate your case, gather evidence, and pursue compensation from the responsible parties.

At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you recover the financial support you need. Contact our team today to discuss your situation and take the next step toward holding those responsible accountable.

What To Do Immediately After An Uber Accident

Being involved in an Uber accident can be both frightening and confusing. Knowing what to do immediately afterward can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation. Our Santa Monica Uber accident lawyer is here to guide you through the process and help you take the right actions following a crash:

Check For Injuries

Your safety and the safety of everyone involved should be your first priority. Check yourself, your passengers, and others in the accident for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, some may appear hours or days later. Seeking prompt medical attention not only protects your health but also provides crucial documentation for your case.

Call 911

Contact law enforcement immediately after an accident. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be essential when filing claims. Make sure officers note details about the scene, the vehicles, and any apparent injuries. Our Uber accident attorneys can later use this report to help build a strong case for compensation.

Document The Scene

Gather evidence while it’s fresh. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information and ask for brief statements about what they saw. Detailed documentation can make a significant difference when pursuing claims.

Notify Uber

Report the accident to Uber through the app. This starts their internal process and may help with insurance coverage for injuries or property damage. Be factual in your reporting and avoid speculation or admitting fault. Our Santa Monica accident lawyer can advise you on what to say and how to communicate with Uber’s claims team.

Exchange Information

Get contact and insurance information from the Uber driver, as well as any other drivers involved. Make note of license plate numbers, vehicle makes and models, and insurance policy details. This information is crucial for your claim.

Preserve Medical Records

If you receive medical treatment, keep thorough records of all visits, diagnoses, procedures, and prescriptions. These records demonstrate the extent of your injuries and support claims for compensation. Our California rideshare accident lawyer will review these documents to ensure your claim accurately reflects your needs and losses.

Avoid Discussing Fault Publicly

Do not admit fault or make statements about the accident on social media or to other parties outside of law enforcement or your attorney. Insurance companies may use such statements to reduce your claim. It’s best to let professionals handle fault determination.

Follow Up On Repairs And Medical Care

If your vehicle or property is damaged, take photos, get repair estimates, and maintain receipts. Continue any recommended medical care, therapy, or follow-up appointments. These steps help document your ongoing recovery and associated expenses.

Seek Legal Guidance

Contact an experienced attorney who handles Uber accidents. Our Santa Monica personal injury firm is here to guide you through insurance claims, negotiate with other parties, and represent your interests in case litigation becomes necessary.

Don’t Put Your Recovery On Hold

If you’ve been involved in an Uber accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and fall behind on certain steps due to injuries or trauma. Even if some actions were delayed, we can still help protect your rights and explore your options for seeking compensation. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we work closely with clients to document injuries, pursue compensation, and advocate for your best interests. Reach out today to set up a time to discuss your case with one of our skilled attorneys.

Santa Monica Uber Accident Infographic

Uber Accident FAQs

Rideshare accidents can get complicated rather quickly. They involve multiple parties and unique insurance policies. Our personal injury attorneys understand the challenges these cases present and are committed to protecting our clients’ rights. Below, we’ve answered some common questions about Uber accident claims in California.

Can You Sue Uber If Your Driver Gets Into An Accident?

Yes, you may be able to sue Uber, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

Uber provides insurance coverage for accidents involving their drivers, but the level of coverage depends on whether the driver was logged into the app and carrying a passenger. If the driver was actively transporting a rider or on their way to pick one up, Uber’s $1 million liability policy typically applies. If they were logged in but waiting for a ride request, a lower level of coverage may be available. Our Santa Monica Uber accident attorneys team can help determine liability and guide you through the claims process.

How Do I Get My Money From An Uber Crash?

You can recover compensation by filing a claim with Uber’s insurance provider, the at-fault driver’s insurance, or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.

After an Uber accident, the first step is gathering evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements. Filing a claim with the appropriate insurance carrier is crucial, but insurers often attempt to minimize payouts.

Our attorneys fight for our clients’ right to receive full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take legal action on your behalf.

Is It Worth Suing For Whiplash?

Yes, if whiplash has caused you medical expenses, pain/suffering, or lost income, filing a claim may be worthwhile.

Whiplash is a common Uber accident injury that can lead to long-term pain and mobility issues. While insurance companies may downplay soft tissue injuries, medical treatment, physical therapy, and lost work time can add up. If your injury affects your daily life, pursuing compensation is essential. Our Santa Monica Uber accident lawyer team helps clients prove the extent of their injuries and fight for a fair settlement.

How Much Can I Sue Uber For?

The amount you can recover depends on factors such as medical costs, lost wages, and the severity of your injuries.

Uber’s insurance policies provide coverage up to $1 million for accident victims, but the actual compensation varies by case. Severe injuries that require long-term treatment or cause permanent disability can result in higher payouts. Economic damages like medical bills and lost income, along with non-economic damages such as pain/suffering, contribute to the total claim value. We assess every case individually to maximize the compensation available to our clients.

When Should I Contact An Attorney?

You should contact an attorney as soon as possible after an Uber accident to protect your rights and strengthen your case.

Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly for less than victims deserve. Speaking with an attorney early ensures that evidence is preserved, medical evaluations are documented, and negotiations are handled effectively. Our California personal injury lawyers fight for our clients every step of the way, because we want to see you receive the compensation you need to fully recover.

Uber Accident Glossary

At the heart of any Uber crash claim is clarity, clarity about your rights, about what to expect, and about the legal terms that might shape your case. If you’re seeking a Santa Monica, CA Uber accident lawyer, this glossary will help you better understand the legal language often used in rideshare-related cases. Each entry below is tailored to the types of claims and legal challenges that can arise when Uber accidents occur, especially here in California.

We’ve selected five key phrases often used in these cases and provided detailed definitions, so you can feel more informed as we help you pursue compensation.

Rideshare Insurance Coverage Periods

The level of insurance coverage available in an Uber crash depends heavily on the driver’s status at the time of the collision. Uber divides coverage into three periods:

• Period 1: The driver is logged into the Uber app but hasn’t accepted a ride request yet. Uber offers limited liability coverage in this stage, which may include up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger. A more substantial insurance policy kicks in at this stage.
• Period 3: The passenger is in the vehicle, and the ride is in progress. Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage during this time, along with limited uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

This distinction is important because it affects which insurance provider is responsible for covering your losses and how much coverage is available. Understanding these timeframes helps determine whether Uber’s or the driver’s personal insurance applies.

Whiplash Injury Claims

Whiplash is a common injury in Uber crashes, especially those involving sudden stops or rear-end collisions. This injury occurs when the head snaps forward and then backward rapidly, straining the muscles and ligaments in the neck.

Although considered a “soft tissue” injury, whiplash can cause lasting pain, headaches, reduced range of motion, and missed workdays. Insurance companies often try to downplay it, but medical documentation like MRIs, physician evaluations, and physical therapy records can support your case. It’s vital to treat and document whiplash immediately after the incident to strengthen your claim.

Electronic Logging Data

Uber drivers rely heavily on mobile apps and GPS navigation, and that technology can work in your favor when building a case. “Electronic logging data” refers to the records generated by the Uber app and, in some cases, the vehicle’s onboard telematics system (the “black box”).

This data may show the speed of the car at the time of impact, the location of the vehicle, and whether the driver was actively accepting a ride. We may use this information to demonstrate that the driver was on duty during the crash and that Uber’s commercial insurance should apply. It also helps establish timelines and vehicle activity, supporting other evidence like witness statements and police reports.

Third-Party Driver Involvement

Not every Uber accident is caused by the Uber driver. “Third-party driver involvement” refers to situations where another motorist caused or contributed to the crash.

For example, a distracted or intoxicated driver may have run a red light and collided with the Uber vehicle. In those cases, the at-fault third party’s insurance may be responsible for your claim. However, if Uber’s driver was carrying a fare at the time, Uber’s policy may still provide secondary coverage. Identifying every party involved helps determine the available options for recovery, especially if one insurance policy is insufficient.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you when the at-fault driver does not have adequate insurance. Uber includes this type of coverage during Period 3, when a paying passenger is in the vehicle.

If another driver caused the accident and has little or no insurance, Uber’s UM/UIM policy can cover injuries and losses for both the driver and passenger. This coverage becomes critical in hit-and-run cases or when the responsible party has a minimal insurance policy that doesn’t cover the full extent of your injuries.

We review each crash carefully to determine whether this type of insurance coverage applies to your case.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare crash, you deserve clear answers. At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we help clients cut through red tape and pursue every available legal option after Uber-related accidents.

Let’s talk about your situation and how we can help. Contact our Santa Monica, CA Uber accident lawyer today for a free consultation and personalized legal guidance.

Get Legal Support Today

If you’ve been injured in an Uber collision, our team is here to help. At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we’re committed to advocating for rideshare accident victims. Contact our Santa Monica Uber accident lawyer today for a free consultation and to learn about your legal options.