Bakersfield Uber Accident Lawyers
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Bakersfield Uber Accident Lawyers Dedicated To Protecting Your Rights & Pursuing Fair Compensation
Injuries sustained in Uber accidents can result in significant expenses. Victims may seek compensation from Uber, the driver, or other responsible parties to cover these costs and reduce their out-of-pocket spending. However, pursuing a claim for damages in ridesharing cases is not as straightforward as in other types of accidents. Our Bakersfield Uber accident lawyers can help you seek a favorable settlement that reflects the extent of your injuries.
According to recruitment services company Zippia, Inc., Uber holds a 71% share of the American rideshare market, while Lyft accounts for 29%. Uber’s sales increased 84% while Lyft’s sales increased 62% year-over-year since 2021. As of 2021, the global ridesharing market was valued at $85.8 billion and is projected to reach $185.1 billion by 2026. In 2023, 36% of Americans have used a ridesharing app, and 26% of ridesharing app users utilize the services on a monthly basis.
These figures reflect the increasing reliance on rideshare platforms across the United States. Bakersfield is certainly no exception, as many residents often need rides to get to nearby Los Angeles or even to multiple local attractions. The unfortunate reality about ridesharing services such as Uber is that the motor vehicles used to transport people are no different from any other cars on the road, and accidents remain common.
At Arash Law, founded by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our legal team handles a wide range of personal injury cases, including complex rideshare accident claims. We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means clients do not pay attorney’s fees unless we obtain compensation on their behalf. Please note that case-related costs may still apply. Our Bakersfield Uber accident lawyers are available to discuss your case and guide you through the legal process.
Settlement in a bicycle versus taxi cab company accident; client suffered lower leg injuries– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Defining Rideshare Accidents
The term “rideshare” is used to describe any travel in a private motor vehicle driven by the vehicle’s owner, usually for a fee when a prior arrangement has been made. Ridesharing companies, also known as transportation network companies (TNCs), use websites and mobile apps to match potential passengers with drivers of vehicles for hire that are typically not available for hire on the street.
Uber and Lyft remain the two predominant ridesharing companies, although numerous smaller competitors have emerged and subsequently disappeared in recent years. These companies classify their drivers as independent contractors instead of actual employees, citing the flexibility this status provides compared to traditional employment.
This designation not only affects taxes, working time, and benefits but also has major consequences for victims of Uber and other ridesharing accidents. People often use these services when they do not have a motor vehicle of their own or when they do not feel safe driving, such as when a person does not want to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.
Common Causes Of Uber Accidents In Bakersfield
Uber accidents frequently occur for a wide variety of possible reasons, with Uber driver negligence being one common cause, but not necessarily the only one. In the greater Bakersfield area, Uber crashes are often caused by:
Speeding — Driving above the posted speed limit or too fast for road conditions reduces a driver’s ability to react to hazards and increases both the likelihood and severity of collisions. In the context of rideshare services, Uber drivers may feel pressure to complete trips quickly to maximize earnings or maintain ratings, which can sometimes contribute to unsafe driving speeds.
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reported that 1,056 people were killed in speeding-related traffic collisions in 2016, a 2.3% from the 1,032 fatalities in 2015 and a 10.7% increase from the 954 in 2012. That same year, 29.1% of California’s 3,623 motor vehicle fatalities were speeding-related, and the state had the second-highest number of speeding-related fatalities in the United States. A 2017 OTS Traffic Safety Survey reported that 65% of drivers believed it was safe to drive 10 miles over the speed limit on freeways. When asked about the safety of driving 20 miles over the speed limit, 12.6% of all drivers and 21.2% of drivers aged 18 to 24 believed it was safe to do so.
- Distracted Driving — Uber drivers may become distracted by mobile devices while managing ride requests or navigation, which can affect their attention on the road. OTS reported that the 3,142 people killed nationwide in crashes involving a distracted driver accounted for 8.7% of all traffic deaths.
- Searching for Customers — Uber drivers sometimes need to locate passengers in busy or crowded areas. This can lead to distractions, as drivers may split their attention between their phones and the road. Other problems that finding a passenger can pose include Uber drivers stopping unexpectedly, not seeing other cars or people in front of them, or possibly operating their vehicles unsafely. All this can lead to Uber collisions.
- Failure to Obey Traffic Laws — Some Uber drivers may not comply with traffic regulations, such as failing to wear seatbelts, making illegal U-turns, or ignoring speed limit reductions in work zones or school zones.
- Uber Driver’s Lack of Experience — Uber’s own requirements for drivers state that applicants must have at least one year of licensed driving experience in the United States (or three years if an applicant is under 25 years of age). However, this minimal requirement may not adequately prepare them for complex or congested traffic conditions, thereby increasing the likelihood of committing mistakes and accidents.
- Motor Vehicle Issues — Uber’s vehicle requirements specify that a vehicle must be 16 years old or newer, four-door, in good condition with no cosmetic damage, have no commercial branding, and pass a vehicle inspection. Newer vehicles may be eligible for UberX, UberXL, or Uber Black. However, there remains a risk for passengers that a driver is using a motor vehicle that is otherwise dangerous and may break down on the road.
- Stopping in Unsafe Locations — While Uber drivers typically aim to pick up and drop off passengers in safe areas, circumstances such as traffic, road design, or navigation issues may prevent them from making ideal stops. As a result, passengers are sometimes required to enter or exit vehicles in locations that may pose safety risks.
- Driver Fatigue — Long hours behind the wheel, especially during late-night or early-morning shifts, can lead to driver fatigue. Drowsy driving impairs reaction time, attention, and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Vehicle Maintenance Issues — Uber drivers are responsible for regular vehicle maintenance to keep their cars functioning properly. Delays in repairs or neglecting routine upkeep can lead to mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or engine problems, which can lead to accidents.
- Navigating Unfamiliar Roadways — Uber drivers may sometimes travel routes they are unfamiliar with. Limited knowledge of the area can increase the chance of mistakes or unsafe conditions, which may contribute to accidents.
Uber accident attorneys in Bakersfield can investigate the cause of the accident and identify the responsible parties. Our experienced lawyers work diligently to protect your rights to seek fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Different Types Of Bakersfield Uber Accidents
Uber accidents have the potential to harm people. Many claims handled by our Uber accident lawyers involve passengers seeking compensation from negligent Uber drivers.
However, claims may also be filed by drivers or occupants of other vehicles involved in collisions with Uber cars. Additionally, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users can suffer injuries in Uber-related accidents. Our Bakersfield Uber accident attorneys conduct thorough, independent investigations to identify all potentially liable parties.
Available Damages For Bakersfield Uber Accident Claims
Damages in personal injury cases are often classified as compensatory damages and divided into two kinds: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are tangible and objectively verifiable losses. Examples include:
- Past, present, and future medical bills.
- Long-term medical care costs.
- Chiropractic care.
- Lost income.
- Diminished earning potential.
- Vehicle repair.
Non-economic damages are for intangible harms and losses. Such damages may include:
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Loss of society and companionship.
- Loss of consortium.
- Injury to reputation.
- Humiliation.
Another less common kind of damages is punitive damages, which can only be awarded when there is clear and convincing evidence that a party was guilty of oppression, fraud, or malice. Punitive damages are usually more common in cases involving grossly negligent conduct by an Uber driver, such as drunk or drugged driving.
Pursuing damages in an Uber accident claim involves navigating complex legal and insurance processes, often against well-resourced companies. Bakersfield Uber accident attorneys can provide guidance on the applicable legal standards, assist with gathering evidence, and seek a fair settlement on behalf of injured parties.
Injuries Bakersfield Uber Accident Lawyers Commonly See Among Victims
Uber accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, which can vary significantly in severity depending on multiple factors.
Common types of injuries in Uber-related accidents include, but are not limited to:
- Fractures or broken bones
- Concussions
- Crush injuries
- Arm injuries
- Back injuries
- Knee injuries
- Leg injuries
- Neck injuries
- Closed head injuries
- Skull fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Permanent nerve injuries
- Internal injuries
- Paralysis
- Severe burn injuries
- Amputations
- Wrongful death
The effects of some of these injuries can be profound, if not permanent, on the victim’s life. Our Bakersfield Uber accident lawyers offer legal assistance to individuals following such incidents, advocating on their behalf in interactions with Uber and insurance companies.
What To Do After A Bakersfield Uber Accident?
The immediate aftermath of an Uber accident can be confusing and stressful for many people. However, it is important to remain as calm as possible and take certain steps to help protect your health and compensation claim later on.
- Get to a Safe Location and Call 911 — After an Uber accident, move to a safe location if possible and call 911 as soon as you can. This notifies authorities to file a crash report and alerts emergency medical personnel if immediate help is needed. Authorities will conduct a preliminary investigation and document their findings in a police report. Request a copy of the report, as this can help support your claim.
- Collect Evidence from the Scene — Evidence can disappear quickly, so try to document as much as possible at the accident scene. Take photographs or videos of the crash scene from multiple angles and distances. Also, look for other time-sensitive details like skid marks. When there are important traffic signs impacting how people should drive, take pictures of those as well.
- Get Information from Everyone Involved — Obtain basic information from all parties, including names, driver’s license numbers, addresses, and insurance information. When speaking to others, avoid admitting fault or apologizing, as statements made at the scene can be used later in the claim.
- Seek Witnesses — Ask bystanders if they witnessed the accident and request their contact information for potential testimony. If someone is unwilling to share their information, consider consulting a Bakersfield Uber accident lawyer. An attorney may be able to follow up with potential witnesses and gather statements as part of the investigation.
- Keep Track of All Your Bills — Maintain records of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, vehicle repair estimates, and any other costs. Accurate documentation is essential for calculating damages in a personal injury claim.
- Seek Medical Attention Promptly — Everyone involved should see a doctor immediately, even if injuries are not apparent. Delayed symptoms are common, and prompt treatment documents injuries and supports insurance claims. Follow all medical advice, avoid returning to work without authorization, and attend all follow-up appointments.
- Consult an Uber Accident Lawyer — An attorney can evaluate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and assess the full scope of your damages. They can also help identify liable parties and obtain police reports or medical records. If necessary, they can represent you in settlement negotiations or legal proceedings.
Our Uber Accident Lawyers In Bakersfield Can Help With Your Claim
Uber accident claims can involve complex legal and insurance-related challenges, particularly in identifying liable parties and establishing the extent of damages. Experienced personal injury lawyers assist by gathering evidence, interpreting relevant laws, handling communications with insurance companies, and guiding clients through the necessary legal procedures. Their involvement helps support a well-prepared and thoroughly documented claim.
Our Uber accident lawyers in Bakersfield also handle cases where claims are denied or undervalued by insurance companies. They review the reasons for the denial or reduction, assess the available evidence, and may respond with additional documentation or legal arguments to support the claim. In some cases, they may represent clients in formal dispute resolution processes, including negotiations, mediation, or litigation, depending on what the situation requires.
Liability For An Uber Accident
Uber does have its own insurance policy for drivers that works as follows:
- If A Driver Is Offline Or The Uber Driver App Is Off — The driver’s personal insurance company and coverage will apply.
- If A Driver Is Available Or Waiting For A Ride Request — Suppose a driver is available or waiting for a ride request. In that case, Uber maintains auto insurance on the driver’s behalf in case of a covered accident that offers third-party liability when the driver’s personal auto insurance does not apply. The policy provides $50,000 in bodily injury per person, $100,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 in property damage per accident.
- If A Driver Is En Route To Pick Up Riders Or Actively Involved In A Trip — Suppose a driver is on the route to pick up riders or is actively involved in a trip. In that case, Uber maintains auto insurance on a driver’s behalf in case of a covered accident that provides $1 million in third-party liability, uninsured or underinsured motorist bodily injury, or first-party injury insurance, contingent comprehensive and collision, and up to the actual cash value of a car with a $2,500 deductible.
Uber often maintains that its drivers are independent contractors, which can affect how the company approaches liability in car accident claims. While this classification may limit Uber’s direct responsibility in some cases, injured parties may still be eligible for compensation through the company’s insurance coverage, depending on the circumstances of the crash. Factors such as whether the driver was actively using the app or transporting a passenger at the time of the accident are relevant in determining coverage and the amount of compensation.
In many cases, injury claims involve negotiations with insurance companies that may dispute liability in car accidents or offer settlement amounts that do not fully reflect the extent of the damages. Uber accident lawyers in Bakersfield can assist by evaluating the claim, identifying available sources of compensation, and advocating for a fair resolution based on the facts and applicable law.
Contact Our Uber Accident Lawyers In Bakersfield For A Free Case Review
If you suffered serious injuries in an Uber accident in Bakersfield and the greater area of Kern County, seeking prompt legal assistance is crucial to protecting your rights. Arash Law can offer you a free, no-obligation initial consultation at a time and location that is convenient for you.
Our team values clear communication and can arrange for a translator if you prefer to speak in a language other than English. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or contact us online to discuss your situation and learn if you may have a valid case.
In addition to Uber collisions, our accident lawyers also handle cases involving Lyft crashes, dog bites, hit-and-run accidents, motorcycle incidents, and truck collisions.
Our Bakersfield Uber accident lawyers also serve clients in neighboring cities, including Arvin, Shafter, Wasco, Taft, Delano, Tehachapi, Porterville, Lindsay, Corcoran, Tulare, Exeter, Farmersville, and Fillmore; census-designated places, such as Oildale and Lamont; and nearby counties like Tulare County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County.
