If you get involved in a Lyft accident in Bakersfield, it may be difficult to recover financial compensation for your medical expenses and other losses. Our Bakersfield personal injury attorneys from Jacoby & Meyers can assist by handling your case and explaining your legal options. Find out how we may help by requesting a free consultation.
Understanding Lyft Accident Claims in Bakersfield
A Lyft or Uber accident is not the same as a typical car crash in Bakersfield. It involves a rideshare vehicle, meaning it has unique California laws and complex issues of liability, or legal and financial responsibility, for the crash.
These complexities can also arise in hit-and-run accidents involving rideshare vehicles, where the at-fault driver leaves the scene.
As an injured Lyft accident victim, you may need to understand your rights under these systems.
For example, you may be eligible for coverage from Lyft’s required insurance policy, which offers up to $1 million for certain injuries caused during Lyft rides.
The amount available under this policy will depend on the phase of your ride. If you were injured as a rideshare passenger, you may qualify for coverage up to the applicable limits.
When to Contact a Bakersfield Lyft Accident Attorney
One way to navigate the elements of a Lyft accident case in Bakersfield is by consulting an attorney. You can focus on your recovery while your lawyer assists with different aspects of your case. A lawyer can help manage and carry out necessary legal work.
If you wish to file a personal injury claim for a Lyft accident that was caused by negligence, or someone’s failure to exercise reasonable care, you must contact an attorney within two years of the date of the crash. This is the legal deadline, or statute of limitations, under California Code of Civil Procedures § 335.1. If you wait too long, you may lose the right to file a lawsuit.
What Makes Jacoby & Meyers Right for This Case?
At Jacoby & Meyers, we believe everyone deserves justice. We have taken on the At Jacoby & Meyers, we focus on making legal services accessible to the public. Since 1972, we have represented families in California in personal injury matters.
We have experience handling automotive accident cases, including rideshare accidents. Our case results show that we have recovered more than $2 billion* for our clients – including $11 million* on behalf of a rideshare accident victim with quadriplegia. Many personal injury cases are handled on a contingency-fee basis, meaning fees may depend on the outcome of the case.
*Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.
Types of Compensation Available for Lyft Accident Victims
An insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit for a Lyft accident in Bakersfield could result in financial compensation for various losses. Compensation may help cover medical costs and lost income, depending on the circumstances.
Available types of compensation can include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Emergency treatment costs
- Disability-related expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages and employment benefits
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death damages, if applicable
The potential value of your case will depend on the circumstances, including the severity of your injuries and how they may impact your life. An attorney can help evaluate your claim and explain the available options.
How a Bakersfield Lyft Accident Lawyer Can Help
When you decide to work with an accident attorney in Bakersfield, they may provide a range of legal services. At Jacoby & Meyers, we can begin by investigating your Lyft accident, including reviewing the scene and speaking with witnesses. We may also contact Lyft to request information about its driver and collect data from the Lyft app.
We can gather evidence to support your claim against one or more potentially liable parties. We may also assist with communications and negotiations with insurance companies, using knowledge of California’s rideshare laws and Lyft’s policy limits. Our attorneys are prepared to represent clients in litigation when appropriate.
During your search for an attorney, it may be helpful to consider working with someone familiar with the Bakersfield area. A local attorney may have experience with local insurance practices and courts in Kern County. They may also be familiar with local medical providers.
Steps to Take After a Bakersfield Lyft Accident
It is normal to feel overwhelmed after a Lyft accident in Bakersfield. Consider taking the following steps:
- Check yourself for injuries. Go to the nearest hospital immediately for a professional medical evaluation. Don’t assume that you are uninjured, even if you initially feel fine.
- Document the scene. Call the police to report the accident if needed. Take a screenshot of the Lyft ride information in the app and take photos if it is safe to do so.
- Report the accident to Lyft. Use the app or the company’s website to notify Lyft of an accident involving one of its drivers.
- File an insurance claim. Tell Lyft that you wish to file a claim, or contact the driver’s individual insurance provider to file. Avoid admitting fault or accepting a quick settlement without understanding your options.
- Contact an attorney. Consult with a Lyft accident lawyer in Bakersfield before making any final decisions about your claim.
After contacting a lawyer, they may assist with the legal aspects of your case.
Contact a Bakersfield Lyft Accident Lawyer Today
A Lyft accident can result in injuries, medical expenses, and time away from work. The Bakersfield personal injury attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers can help explain your legal options and assist you in pursuing compensation as permitted under California law.
Our Bakersfield office is located at 2020 Eye St, Bakersfield, CA 93301. We offer flexible appointments with 24/7 availability and can come to you if you are injured. Contact us today to learn more. Call (661) 402-8934.