Westlake Village Uber Accidents and Transportation Network Company (TNC) Laws

Uber drivers are just like everyone else—no matter how careful they are, they risk getting into car accidents just by being on the road. However, Uber’s classification as a transportation network company (TNC) could complicate how an accident victim obtains relief.

Whether you were driving, riding, or just crossing the street when you were injured in an Uber accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Talk to one of our seasoned rideshare crash attorneys at Block LLP to learn more about Westlake Village Uber accidents and transportation network company (TNC) legalities.

Definition of a TNC

Section 5431 of the California Public Utilities Code defines a TNC as an entity that provides transportation using a digital platform that connects passengers with drivers who use their personal vehicles. California Public Utilities Code § 5433(b) requires Uber, as a TNC, to have insurance coverage of at least $1,000,000 for death, personal injury, or property damage caused by its drivers.

Uber must also meet certain hiring requirements and safety standards. For example, TNCs cannot hire anyone convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) and other select offenses within the last seven years. According to California Public Utilities Code § 5445.1, TNCs must also provide basic driver information to passengers, including the driver’s picture and license plate number. Uber’s status as a TNC can affect Westlake Village Uber accident claims.

How Uber’s TNC Status Impacts Claims

Since Uber is a TNC, its insurance is primarily responsible when one of its drivers causes an accident while logged into the app and either going to pick up a passenger after accepting a ride request or transporting a passenger. Uber’s insurance may also be liable if a driver is logged into the Uber app but has not yet accepted a ride, according to California Public Utilities Code § 5433(c).

When an Uber driver is not logged into the app, their personal car insurance could likely be responsible for any damages caused in a crash. If another party, such as another driver, was at fault, that party could also be liable. Finally, if poorly maintained roads or other forms of governmental negligence contributed to an Uber accident, even the government could owe compensation.

Knowing how Uber’s TNC status affects liability is important if you are seeking compensation for a Westlake Village Uber accident. Since the Uber driver’s insurance may not cover the full amount of injury or damage, you may need to file a claim against both Uber and the driver if permitted. At Block LLP, our experienced attorneys could identify all potentially liable parties and pursue all practical avenues so you do not lose your chance at recovery.

Negligent Hiring

Negligent hiring means that an employer knew, or should have reasonably known, that their employee was unreliable, irresponsible, or even a danger to others. Under a negligent hiring theory, both Uber and the Uber driver could be liable for an accident the driver causes. For example, if Uber does not conduct a proper background check or knowingly hires someone with a DUI conviction, both Uber and the driver could be liable if that driver causes an accident while intoxicated.

Under California Civil Code § 335, the statute of limitations for negligence or wrongful death lawsuits is two years from the date of injury. If you were involved in a Westlake Village Uber collision, you should talk to one of our personal injury attorneys as soon as possible to discuss your case and the impact Uber’s TNC status may have on it.

Speak With a Westlake Village Attorney About Your Uber or TNC Accident Today

Understanding the connection between Westlake Village Uber accidents and transportation network company (TNC) legalities can be difficult. However, one of our capable personal injury attorneys could make it easier.

If you or a loved one have been in an Uber accident, call to book a free consultation with a member of our Block LLP team today to discuss your options.