$825,000 Recovery for Rideshare Driver Injured in Rear-End Collision in Tustin, CA

Attorneys Adam Kocaj & Samer Habbas Secure Major Underinsured Motorist Award

Recent Case Result

Our client, a rideshare driver, was stopped at a red light at the intersection of Tustin Ranch Road and Irvine Boulevard in Tustin, California, when his vehicle was rear-ended by a negligent driver. The at-fault driver, operating a Ford Focus owned by family members, failed to stop in time and slammed into the back of our client’s 2021 Nissan Rogue.

Although the initial property damage appeared minor, the collision caused orthopedic injuries that would result in a microdiscectomy (back surgery). The at-fault party carried insufficient insurance, triggering an underinsured motorist (UIM) claim under the rideshare policy.

What Made It Unique

Even with clear liability, the defense attempted to minimize the claim’s value by labeling the injuries as not being caused by the motor vehicle collision. They heavily relied on the photograph of our client’s vehicle, showing minor damages. Through detailed medical documentation, expert reports, and strategic arbitration preparation, our attorneys demonstrated the true extent of the physical and economic harm caused by the crash. Importantly, we debunked the common defense theory that there is a correlation between vehicle damages and causation of injuries.

Legal Strategy

Attorneys Adam Kocaj and Samer Habbas filed a UIM arbitration demand and developed a case narrative that connected the medical evidence to injuries sustained by our client. Due to our extensive experience in this field, we are very familiar with the main defense talking points. Here, the defense continuously argued that the vehicle damages were insufficient to show enough Delta V (change of velocity) to exert enough forces to cause injury. We countered this argument based on our client’s advanced age and preexisting conditions (eggshell theory).

When the carrier low balled, we made a demand for arbitration. When they low balled again thereafter, we made it clear that unless our client was justly compensated that we would put this case in the hands of an arbitrator to make a decision on value. Knowing our firm will not hesitate to case a trial or arbitration, the carrier caved and settled this case.

Client Outcome

After extensive preparation and negotiation, our firm secured a total recovery of $825,000, far exceeding the defense’s initial offers. This resolution provided our client with both financial security and the means to continue medical treatment — a life-changing outcome made possible through relentless advocacy and strategic execution.

Get Samer On Your Side

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare or auto accident, don’t face insurance companies alone. The attorneys at Samer Habbas & Associates have recovered over $350 million for injured clients across Southern California.

Call (949) 727-9300 or visit Habbaspilaw.com to schedule your free consultation today.

Get Samer On Your Side.