Suing for a Dog Bite in San Francisco While Working for Uber Eats

The gig economy is alive and well in San Francisco, and while many workers enjoy working for companies like Uber Eats, they face numerous threats each day. Dog attacks represent one of the most shocking and dangerous threats for food delivery workers in the Bay Area, and most workers are extremely familiar with this issue. Some delivery workers have suffered serious, disfiguring scars after being mauled or bitten by dogs. Owners may do very little to call off their dogs during these attacks, and these animals are often poorly trained. What can you do after a dog attack in San Francisco? How can you get compensation for your missed wages, emotional distress, and medical expenses? 

Why Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim is Difficult for Uber Eats Workers

Gig workers are not considered “employees” under California law. As a result, they cannot file workers’ compensation claims. This applies not only to Uber Eats workers, but also Uber drivers, SkiptheDishes workers, and a range of other similar “independent contractors.” You may feel shocked to learn that you cannot file a workers’ compensation claim after experiencing a dog attack as an Uber Eats worker, but this is just the way our legal system currently works. It is a highly controversial issue, however, and one that is sparking calls for change among both food delivery workers and lawmakers. 

Some workers are taking decisive action – and some are even unionizing. On February 14, 2024, the Rideshare Drivers Union told members in the Bay Area to take the day off. Thousands of Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash workers turned off their apps, protesting numerous concerns, including “unsafe working conditions.” Safety hazards include not only car accidents, but also animal attacks. 

Uber May Provide Some Level of Insurance Coverage

While you cannot file a workers’ compensation claim against Uber, you might have the ability to file a claim under Uber’s own injury insurance. Some drivers may be covered by this policy, as long as they can prove that the injury occurred during the actual food delivery process. One would think that this includes dog attacks, but there is considerable “fine print” to consider when it comes to these policies. As a matter of course, Uber will avoid paying out a settlement if they can help it. 

An injury lawyer in San Francisco can help you navigate Uber’s insurance policy, even if your claim has already been denied. This could provide considerable compensation for medical expenses, missed wages, and other damages. 

You Can Still Sue the Dog Owner Directly

While workers’ compensation and an Uber injury insurance claim might provide uncertain or nonexistent results, a personal injury lawsuit can be much more effective. In California, dog owners can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by their animals. Strict liability means that you may not need to prove negligence. Instead, you only need to establish that the accident occurred. 

In this situation, it is very important that you seek proper medical treatment immediately after the dog attack. You might also consider calling 9-1-1 after the attack. This will ensure swift attention from paramedics, and police officers may also arrive. These officers may document your attack via a police report, and this can also prove to be helpful evidence in the event of a personal injury lawsuit. In addition, animal control may be called to the scene to address the issue. After you receive treatment at a nearby hospital, your medical records can help establish the existence and severity of your injuries. 

When you sue a dog owner, you can force them to pay for various medical expenses, missed wages, emotional distress, disfigurement, and other damages. If they cannot pay for these costs from their available funds, they may be forced to sell assets, including their home. Combine Uber’s insurance policy with a dog bite lawsuit, and you can give yourself the best possible chance of covering your economic and non-economic damages. 

Find a Qualified Dog Bite Lawyer in San Francisco

If you have been searching for a dog bite lawyer in San Francisco, look no further than Mary Alexander & Associates. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured food delivery workers in the Bay Area, including those recovering from dog attacks. We know how devastating and life-altering these attacks can be and we can guide you toward the compensation you deserve. Book your consultation today to learn more about your legal options.