Manhattan Beach Lyft Accident Lawyers
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Our Reputable Manhattan Beach Lyft Accident Lawyers Are Personally Committed To Securing Your Justice
Ride-sharing companies like Lyft cannot guarantee your safety, especially with negligent and reckless drivers involved. If you or a loved one is injured in a Lyft accident, call our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391. We will help you seek justice and recover compensation for your damages.
Manhattan Beach in Los Angeles County is definitely a great place to relax, play volleyball, ride a bike, and go for a swim. You can take a stroll along Manhattan Beach Pier, where Manhattan Beach Boulevard meets the Pacific Ocean. From there, you can also see some of L.A.’s most expensive beachfront homes and the beautiful Palos Verdes Peninsula to the south.
Because of the city’s beautiful beaches and scenery, it’s no wonder that hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to this place to unwind. Traffic congestion and limited parking spaces are expected, so more people are opting for ride-sharing services. With busy roads and crowded establishments, most locals and tourists prefer to enjoy the city without stressing themselves about driving and looking for parking spaces. However, the surge in rideshare vehicles has become a concern due to the increasing number of car accidents in the city.
Were you recently injured in a Lyft accident? We can help. We’ll guide you through filing a personal injury claim, assist you in seeking medical attention, assess potential insurance coverage, secure important documents like accident reports, and negotiate with insurance companies. Get a free case consultation with our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident attorneys today!
A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.– ARASH KHORSANDI
How Our Lyft Accident Attorneys Can Help
Our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers can advise you of your legal options, assist you in decision-making, and advocate for your rights. We will handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure they don’t take advantage of your situation. Often, these insurance providers will try to intimidate you into accepting a lower settlement or denying your claim altogether.
If the liable parties refuse to compensate you fairly, our attorneys will not hesitate to bring your case to court. We don’t want them to be free from their accountability after the trouble and damage they caused you. No matter the situation, we will strive to achieve a just resolution.
Following a Lyft accident, your priority should be recovery. While you focus on healing, we will process your claim on your behalf. Our legal team will investigate the accident, gather evidence, contact witnesses, and secure relevant reports to build a strong case.
Our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident attorneys serve as powerful legal advocates, representing you in dealings with ride-sharing companies and their insurers. Our track record of successful settlements and jury awards speaks for itself. If you have questions about your case, we are here for you 24/7.
Common Types Of Injuries In Lyft Accidents
Victims are entitled to compensation. Our reputable Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach will assess the severity of your injuries and calculate the estimated amount of money you should receive. Here are some common injuries suffered by our past clients:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Head injuries
- Herniated discs
- Whiplash
- Severed limbs
- Soft tissue injuries
- Wrongful deaths
If you sustained injuries, regardless of their severity, you should see your doctor immediately. Likewise, you should consult with our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach right away. We can guide you through the next steps of recovering compensation and connect you with the best physicians in California.
What Are The Common Causes Of Lyft Accident Injuries?
There are more and more people using ride-sharing services like Lyft these days. Although these services provide a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation, accidents can still happen. In the cases our Lyft accident attorneys have handled in Manhattan Beach, these are the most common causes:
Distracted Driving
Conversations with passengers, using navigation systems, or even using cell phones can cause drivers to lose their focus on the road. When their attention is somewhere else, they could fail to react to traffic events or notice the light changing, causing serious or fatal collisions with pedestrians and other drivers.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Drunk or drugged driving is illegal in California. Lyft has strict policies against DUI as well. Even so, there have been instances where drivers have disobeyed these rules, often resulting in serious accidents.
Alcohol, illegal drugs, and even certain medications can impair one’s senses, cognitive skills, and motor coordination. If an individual is under the influence of these substances while driving, they might experience slowed reaction times, blurred vision, impaired judgment, and heightened aggression – all of which increase the risk of accidents.
If you get injured due to an impaired driver while riding a Lyft, contact our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers, who also specialize in DUI cases. Drivers convicted of DUI might have their licenses revoked for at least one year or sentenced to up to six months in jail.
Driver Fatigue
Some drivers work long hours on Lyft or even operate vehicles after a full-time job. Even when they need to rest, they choose to drive to earn more. However, extreme exhaustion can impair a driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely. Drowsiness has similar effects to alcohol or drugs, demonstrating how dangerous it could be.
Reckless Driving
Lyft drivers’ incomes depend on the number of trips they complete. As such, they might be tempted to speed or engage in other forms of reckless driving to meet their self-imposed quota and increase their earnings. This could mean violating speed limits or changing lanes abruptly, both of which put road users at risk.
Poor Weather Conditions
Inclement weather conditions, like heavy rain or high winds, can make driving more dangerous. Some Lyft drivers are not accustomed to driving in these conditions. When they don’t lower their speed, take extra caution when maneuvering, and adjust their driving behaviors, they are highly likely to cause accidents.
Malfunctioning Vehicle Parts
Since Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, they use their own cars for work. If they neglect maintenance, their cars might break down while on the road, putting their passengers and other road users at risk.
Some car problems, on the other hand, are caused by mistakes in the design or the manufacturing process, which are both examples of manufacturer negligence. In these cases, you can consult with Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers who also specialize in product liability.
Unfamiliar Roads
Many Lyft drivers don’t know all the streets in Manhattan Beach. So, they rely on their app to know where they’re going and how to get there quickly. When drivers pick up passengers all across the Bay Area, they can encounter unfamiliar roads, increasing accident risks due to confusion or wrong turns.
Self-Driving Cars
Ride-sharing companies have started to explore autonomous vehicle technology with the goal of offering transport services to the public in self-driving cars. Understandably, many don’t feel safe with the idea of putting their lives at the mercy of a machine. The risks of system malfunctions and inadequate responses to unpredictable road conditions are ever-present, and these factors continue to cause injuries and deaths to other road users nationwide.
Other Road Users
Rideshare drivers are not always responsible for accidents. Even if they might share some liability for collisions, they could also become victims of Lyft accidents caused by other motorists, including drivers who are distracted, driving aggressively, or not adhering to traffic regulations.
All Lyft drivers, other road users, and even pedestrians have a responsibility to take reasonable care to prevent potential injuries and fatalities caused by car accidents. They need to follow traffic laws; otherwise, they could face liabilities or penalties. If you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, you can seek help from our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers. We will discuss your legal options.
Recovering Compensation After A Lyft Accident
Victims may be entitled to recover compensation under the California Civil Code. In general, they can pursue the following damages in a claim:
- Economic damages – These are quantifiable financial losses, such as medical bills, salary wages, and lost earnings.
- Non-economic damages – These are intangible losses. Some examples are loss of enjoyment in life, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.
- Punitive damages – Some damages don’t compensate the victim but rather serve to punish defendants for their outrageous negligence. Punitive damages are extremely rare in California, however.
The extent of your losses will determine the amount you can recover in a personal injury claim. However, there’s no guarantee that the at-fault parties and their insurance companies will willingly give you the payment you’re owed. They could minimize your damages to lessen your payout or even deny your claim.
If you need assistance dealing with insurance companies, do not hesitate to call our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach. We will fight for your right to compensation.
Lyft’s Insurance Policy
Lyft accident claims are more complicated than cases involving regular passenger cars because of the company’s insurance policy. So, it is best to consult with reliable attorneys who handle Lyft accident cases in Manhattan Beach. They understand the complex insurance concerns about rideshare services, which involve the following periods:
- Period 0 – Offline
If a driver isn’t logged into the app, they are considered off-duty. Once they get into an accident, their personal or commercial auto insurance coverage will apply. - Period 1 – Waiting For A Ride Request
When a driver is online and waiting for a ride request during the accident, Lyft’s liability coverage is 50/100/25 in California or:- $25,000 for property damage
- $100,000 per accident resulting in bodily injuries
- $50,000 per person for injuries
- Period 2 – On The Way To Pick Up A Rider
When a Lyft driver accepts a ride request and is en route to pick up a rider, liability coverage is increased to up to $1 Million. - Period 3 – With A Passenger
Once a driver picks up a passenger and begins driving them to their destination, Lyft provides maximum coverage. This includes $1 Million in liability coverage, as well as uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
Lyft’s insurance policy could get tricky, especially if there are other complicating factors. Make sure to hire Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach who are knowledgeable in this area.
Who Is Liable In A Lyft Accident?
While Lyft drivers are usually the at-fault party in an accident, other parties can also be held responsible for injuries and damages, including:
- Lyft – Ride-sharing companies need to ensure that their drivers are skilled and well-trained. If the company is careless when choosing drivers, it might be responsible for the accident.
- Car or auto parts manufacturer – When a malfunctioning car part leads to an accident, the manufacturer of the car or the specific component that failed could be held responsible under the product liability law.
- Another driver – No one can control someone’s behavior on the road. Other drivers could also breach their duty of care, resulting in injuries and fatalities. In this case, they have a shared responsibility for the collision.
- Third parties – Depending on the circumstances, another individual or company could become liable for a Lyft accident. For example, a dog owner could become responsible if their pet causes a traffic disturbance, leading to a collision. A government body might also be at fault if it fails to fix a longstanding road issue, causing a Lyft driver to lose control.
It can be difficult to pinpoint who’s to blame in an accident. In some cases, two or more entities share liability in a collision. With the help of our skilled attorneys, you can determine all parties responsible for compensating you. Reach out to our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach, and let’s discuss your case.
Understanding Comparative Negligence In California
California follows the pure comparative negligence rule, allowing individuals to seek compensation even if they are partially at fault for an accident. This principle states that if you share responsibility for the accident, your financial compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if the court finds the defendant is 60% liable and the plaintiff is 40% at fault, the plaintiff can only get 60% of the damages instead of the full amount.
The concept of comparative negligence is important in evaluating the strength of your case. Consult with our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach, who can explain how this rule would apply to your claim. Our legal team, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., will assess your accident and determine how to maximize your compensation.
Statute Of Limitations When Filing A Personal Injury Claim
If you get injured in a Lyft accident, it is important to understand and comply with California’s statute of limitations. Section 335.1 of the California Code of Civil Procedure says that you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, this timeframe can vary based on the specifics of your case. It is essential to consult with our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers to make sure you do not miss critical deadlines.
There are times when the statute of limitations may be tolled or delayed. For example, if the person injured is a minor, the countdown might not commence until they turn 18. Similarly, if the defendant leaves the state, the deadline could be pushed back until they return. These cases demonstrate the legal system’s flexibility in dealing with unforeseen problems, ensuring everyone has a chance to seek justice.
If you miss the deadline, the court could dismiss your case, causing you to lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. Remember, the deadlines for filing personal injury claims are critical for any discussions concerning potential settlements between you, the negligent parties, and the insurance companies. If you don’t know when your deadline is, reach out to the Lyft accident attorneys Manhattan Beach relies on.
How To Report A Lyft Accident In Manhattan Beach, CA
Following a Lyft accident in Manhattan Beach, it’s important to stay at the scene and call the police. When officers arrive, provide a factual account of the accident from your perspective, but avoid admitting fault.
You can then report the accident on Lyft’s website. Go to the Report Accident webpage, select your role (driver/rider/other), and press “Save and continue.” After that, expect a call from the company.
If the collision involved your vehicle, you should also report it to your auto insurance provider. Again, be mindful of your words and provide only facts about the accident. Then, contact our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach to learn about your rights and legal options.
What Should I Do After A Lyft Accident?
After a Lyft accident, your priority is to ensure your safety and well-being. Remain calm and wait for the authorities to arrive. While you are still at the scene, do your best to follow these steps:
- Move to a safe place and check for injuries.
- Call 911 immediately.
- Document the accident. Take pictures of the scene, vehicles, their plate numbers, your injuries, and road conditions.
- Get the contact information of the driver, witnesses, and other involved parties.
- Seek medical attention. No matter how small your injuries are, you need to go to the doctor to conduct a physical assessment.
- Report the accident to Lyft.
- Consult a legal professional. During a complimentary consultation, gather details regarding your rideshare accident and present them to our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers.
Suppose you were too badly injured in the accident to complete these steps. Our skilled Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach will gather evidence, secure documents, and investigate the crash on your behalf. We will work on your case and do everything to get you paid for your injuries and damages.
Lyft Accident Statistics
In Lyft’s safety report in October 2021, Lyft disclosed approximately 4,158 sexual assaults reported on its platform from 2017 to 2019. This disclosure contradicts the company’s mission of promoting safe and comfortable rides.
According to a study from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the emergence of ride-sharing services has increased traffic fatalities by 2 to 3 percent. This applies not only to vehicle occupants but also to pedestrians. Another study conducted by Bruce Schaller, a transportation analyst, shows that ride-sharing services contribute to traffic congestion. One primary reason is that drivers spend 40 to 60 percent of their time circling the roads without passengers.
The growing presence of Lyft vehicles on the road can contribute to traffic congestion and an increased risk of accidents. In crowded areas, drivers often try to find alternative routes or navigate narrow streets with heavy pedestrian traffic. If drivers fail to pay attention to the road or obey traffic rules, they are putting their passengers’ and others’ lives at risk.
Lyft Accident Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sue Lyft For An Accident?
You can directly sue Lyft in some cases but not in most accidents involving its drivers. Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, which means they do not have an employer-employee relationship with the company. When they cause an accident, they are liable for damages. Either their auto insurance policy or Lyft’s third-party liability coverage for drivers will apply.
Lyft will not recognize any responsibility unless it has directly contributed to the collision in some way, like hiring an unqualified driver due to a negligent hiring process. If you want to know if you have a case against the rideshare company, contact our Lyft accident attorneys in Manhattan Beach.
Do I Really Need A Manhattan Beach Lyft Accident Lawyer?
Even if you think your injuries are minor, you still need a reliable legal team to help you file a personal injury claim. Lyft accident lawyers will protect your rights and ensure you will get the compensation you deserve. They will not allow insurance companies to try to harass or intimidate you, and they can give you advice on what to do in such cases. Reach out to our Lyft accident attorneys in Manhattan Beach for a free consultation.
Are Passengers Insured With Lyft?
From the moment you enter the vehicle until you reach your destination, Lyft’s third-party liability insurance covers you. This coverage offers up to $1 million for your injuries and losses if you get into an accident. Learn how much you can recover by speaking with our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach.
What If The Insurance Company Contacts Me?
If an insurance company calls you, decline the conversation and direct the insurer to our Lyft accident attorneys. Insurance providers will definitely bombard you with questions about the accident to confuse you and then manipulate you into saying something they could use against you. Let our Lyft accident lawyers communicate with them to ensure your rights are protected.
How Much Is My Lyft Accident Case Worth?
The actual value of your Lyft accident case is based on your injuries, medical costs, age, health, and other circumstances. Our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers can calculate your damages and give you an estimate. This way, we can also determine the amount of settlement we can demand from the liable parties and insurance companies.
Injured? Call The Lyft Accident Lawyers Manhattan Beach Residents Turn To
We cannot understate the benefits of ride-sharing services like Lyft. It allows people to enjoy Manhattan Beach without having to worry about heavy traffic and parking issues. However, we cannot completely entrust our lives and safety to their drivers and even other motorists. If you are injured in a Lyft accident, never give up your rights to compensation. No matter how small or severe your injuries are, you are entitled to recover your losses and hold the negligent parties liable for the accident.
Are you still searching on Google, “I need a personal injury lawyer?” Your search is over. Our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers will provide you with excellent legal representation and help you file a personal injury claim.
Reach out to us by calling our personal injury lawyers specializing in Lyft and car accidents at (888) 488-1391. If you have questions or concerns about your case, we are happy to answer them and discuss them with you. We can arrange a free case evaluation to assess your circumstances.
Our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident law firm also serves victims living in nearby areas, such as Los Angeles, Hermosa Beach, El Segundo, Redondo, Lawndale, Hawthorne, Alondra Park, Lennox, Torrance, Gardena, and Inglewood.
