Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a regular part of getting around California. However, accidents involving these vehicles can leave you dealing with serious injuries, confusing insurance issues, and unexpected financial stress.
You can take charge of your legal situation after an Uber or Lyft crash with a rideshare accident lawyer in Bakersfield, CA. Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, founded in 2016, will support you through insurance negotiations or with a personal injury lawsuit.
We believe in always putting our clients first and may help you pursue compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost pay, and vehicle repair costs. You can get fast answers about what to do next from a Bakersfield car accident lawyer during your 100% free consultation.
What Compensation Can You Get After a Rideshare Crash?
A Bakersfield personal injury lawyer at Omega Law Group can help you secure both economic and non-economic damages to cover your financial losses after a collision. Depending on your situation, the at-fault party may have to pay for your:
Medical Expenses
Collisions with rideshare vehicles often result in traumatic brain injuries, back or spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and even wrongful death. Your rideshare services accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for both current and future medical treatment.
Lost Wages
You may need significant time off work to recover from a rideshare car accident. Our team will track your lost wages and include them in your insurance claim. If your injuries affect your ability to return to work, you may also qualify for compensation for reduced earning capacity.
Property Damage
You may need compensation for property damage if a rideshare driver strikes your vehicle. This can include repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and personal belongings, such as phones or other items damaged in the crash.
Non-Economic Losses
A Bakersfield rideshare accident lawyer may also help you pursue compensation for the non-economic effects of a crash, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of consortium
We understand how to evaluate these damages and include them as part of your claim so that the full impact of the accident is considered. Get a free consultation with us so we can pursue compensation for your emotional distress after a serious accident involving ridesharing services.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Bakersfield
Rideshare accidents can happen for many reasons, but certain factors are especially common in Bakersfield due to local traffic patterns and driving conditions. Understanding these causes can help establish liability and strengthen your claim.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Frequent stops and sudden braking: Rideshare drivers often stop abruptly to pick up or drop off passengers, especially in busy areas.
- Distracted driving: Drivers rely heavily on apps for navigation and ride requests, which can take their attention off the road.
- High-traffic corridors: Roads such as California Avenue, Ming Avenue, and Highway 99 see heavy congestion, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Fatigued driving: Many rideshare drivers work long hours or drive late at night, leading to slower reaction times.
- Unfamiliar routes: Drivers may rely on GPS in unfamiliar neighborhoods, which can lead to sudden lane changes or missed turns.
- Tourism and event traffic: Increased activity in shopping centers and event areas can create unpredictable driving conditions.
Who Pays You After a Rideshare Accident?
Liability for rideshare accidents can feel challenging to determine. In some cases, the rideshare driver may need to cover your expenses if their actions caused the crash. In other situations, another driver on the road may be responsible.
However, rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft may also provide insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the crash. For help determining who’s liable, contact a rideshare accident lawyer in Bakersfield now.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Policies
Rideshare insurance coverage is divided into different periods based on whether the driver is using the app. These policies can significantly affect how much compensation is available.
Generally, coverage includes:
- App off: The driver’s personal auto insurance policies apply.
- App on, waiting for a ride request: Limited liability coverage may be available from the rideshare company.
- Ride accepted or passenger in the vehicle: Higher coverage limits typically apply, which may include liability coverage and uninsured or underinsured motorist protection.
These layered insurance policies can make claims more challenging than standard car accident cases. Determining which policy applies requires careful analysis of the driver’s activity at the time of the motor vehicle accident.
Legislative Updates Affecting Rideshare Accidents
Laws and regulations surrounding rideshare companies continue to evolve in California. These legislative updates can impact your rights and how claims are handled:
- Proposition 22 and Assembly Bill 5 (AB 5): Proposition 22, passed in 2020, classifies rideshare drivers as independent contractors rather than employees while still requiring certain benefits and protections.
- California Public Utilities Code § 5433: California law requires transportation network companies like Uber and Lyft to carry specific insurance coverage based on the driver’s activity in the app. This includes up to $1 million in liability coverage when a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle.
- Insurance disclosure requirements: Rideshare companies are required to disclose applicable insurance coverage, which helps clarify what policies apply after an accident and how claims should be handled.
These legislative updates are important because they can directly influence the outcome of your case. An Uber and Lyft accident attorney stays informed on current California laws to ensure your claim reflects the latest legal standards.
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How Will Your Bakersfield Rideshare Accident Lawyer Help?
An attorney can assist with every aspect of your legal claim after a rideshare crash. Omega Law Group provides a risk-free consultation so you can get immediate information about your next steps.
We can investigate what happened to strengthen your claim while you focus on recovery. Depending on your situation, we may:
- Visit the scene of your rideshare accident
- Obtain a copy of the police report
- Interview eyewitnesses
- Work with accident reconstruction professionals
- Collect photos and video evidence
You can also support your case by gathering contact information, saving rideshare app details, and seeking prompt medical care.
How Do You Resolve a Rideshare Accident Claim?
Most rideshare accident claims are resolved through settlements with insurance companies. Your attorney can handle negotiations and review all settlement offers to ensure they reflect your losses.
Our Bakersfield auto accident team compares offers against your medical bills, lost income, and other damages. If an insurer presents a low offer, we can push back and continue negotiations.
If a fair resolution cannot be reached after a rideshare automotive accident, we are prepared to file a personal injury lawsuit and represent you in court.
Can You Wait to File Your Rideshare Crash Claim?
It is important to begin the legal process as soon as possible after a motor vehicle crash involving Uber or Lyft. California’s statute of limitations generally allows two years to file a personal injury claim, but delays can make it harder to gather evidence and build a strong case.
Acting quickly allows your motor vehicle accident attorney to preserve evidence and protect your rights. Call Omega Law Group today so we can get started on your rideshare accident claim now.
Get a Free Consultation With Our Bakersfield Rideshare Accident Attorneys
You can take control of your legal situation with a rideshare accident lawyer in Bakersfield from Omega Law Group. We are ready to answer your questions, explain your options, and represent you throughout your claim.
Call or fill out our online contact form to learn more and get started with a free consultation. You can also visit our helpful FAQ page to find out more about your personal injury claim questions.
