Rideshare companies like Uber have become popular in Bakersfield and throughout the country. Like taxi companies, Uber provides a convenient way to get where you need to be.
However, there are important differences between traditional taxi cabs and Uber vehicles. For example, taxis often receive regular system checks and maintenance, but it may be unclear how often Uber vehicles are maintained since they are privately owned.
Another key difference involves how Uber’s liability insurance provides coverage. Uber’s coverage depends on which of several specific periods an accident occurs.
Uber accidents can be complex. If you have been injured or lost a loved a one in an Uber accident, you may wish to speak with a Bakersfield Uber accident attorney to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation.
For over 50 years, the personal injury attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers have represented injury victims throughout California.
To schedule a free consultation about your case, contact us at (661) 402-8934 or complete the short form on our contact page.
Who Is Liable for My Injuries in a Bakersfield Uber Accident?
Like other types of car accidents in Bakersfield, the party who caused your injuries may be held legally responsible.
This can include situations involving hit-and-run drivers, where determining liability and identifying available insurance coverage may require additional investigation.
However, determining who will pay compensation for your damages can be more complicated in Uber accidents.
If your Uber driver is at fault for the accident that caused your injuries, compensation may come from Uber’s insurance carrier or the driver’s personal insurance carrier, depending on the circumstances.
There are four stages of Uber insurance coverage to be aware of:
- Period zero is when the driver’s Uber app is not open or not accepting rides. The driver’s personal insurance policy would generally be responsible for coverage during this period.
- Period one is when the driver’s app is open and they are accepting ride requests but have not yet received one. During period one, Uber’s insurance coverage limits are typically $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage and $30,000 in property damage coverage.
- Period two begins when the Uber driver is matched with a passenger. During this period, Uber’s insurance coverage limits are generally $1 million in bodily injury liability, $1 million in third-party liability coverage, and $1 million in uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
- Period three begins when the Uber driver picks up the passenger and ends when the passenger exits the vehicle at the end of the ride. During this period, Uber provides similar coverage limits as in period two.
Disputes sometimes arise about whether the Uber driver had been matched with a passenger or was still in period one, where coverage limits are lower. Insurance carriers may evaluate these timing issues closely when determining coverage.
An experienced Bakersfield Uber accident attorney can review the facts of your case, investigate the accident, and identify potentially liable parties and available insurance coverage.
Call a Bakersfield Uber Accident Attorney Today
Any vehicle accident can be complicated. However, Uber accidents have extra layers of complexity. Any vehicle accident can involve complicated legal and insurance questions. Uber accidents may involve additional considerations related to rideshare insurance coverage.
At Jacoby & Meyers, our personal injury attorneys in Bakersfield have represented clients in accident cases for decades. We can review your situation, answer your questions, and explain your legal options
Call us at (661) 402-8934 or visit our contact page now to schedule a free consultation to discuss your Uber accident.
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Jacoby & Meyers Accident & Injury Lawyers – Bakersfield
2020 Eye St,
Bakersfield, CA 93301