Imperial County Lyft Accident Lawyers
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Imperial County Lyft Accident Lawyers Protecting Your Legal Interests After An Injury
No one expects to get involved in a Lyft accident. Unfortunately, some drivers may make errors that result in devastating collisions. If you are injured in one, call our Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391. We can help you seek justice and pursue compensation for your losses.
Despite its small population, Imperial County attracts plenty of visitors from across the country. Lyft is a popular way for residents and tourists to see the sights and get around the area. However, studies show that ridesharing services cause a significant hike in traffic congestion and the likelihood of traffic accidents.
At Arash Law, we recognize the impact that Lyft accidents can have on victims and their families. Our dedicated lawyers work on behalf of injured individuals to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses tied to the accident. With years of experience handling Lyft accident cases, we have the resources and knowledge to help you navigate the legal process.
Why Consult Our Imperial County Lyft Accident Lawyers
Our lawyers can pursue just compensation for clients injured in rideshare accidents. We handle every case with dedication, skill, and compassion, regardless of how challenging the circumstances are.
We are committed to providing skilled legal representation while offering support to our clients throughout the legal process. If you need assistance in handling your claim, contact us for a free case review. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Imperial County can help you seek the compensation you may be eligible for under the law.
Our client was driving with his wife and son on a two-lane highway when a drunk driver crossed the double yellow lines, causing a head-on collision that claimed the life of a loving wife and mother.– ARASH KHORSANDI
How Our Imperial County Lyft Accident Lawyers Can Help You
If you’re injured in a Lyft accident, you can benefit from dedicated legal representation. Our lawyers can pursue justice on your behalf. Here’s what our personal injury attorneys can offer:
- Personalized Legal Support — Our attorneys approach each case with a personal touch. We provide one-on-one attention and craft a strategy that fits your unique circumstances.
- Contingency Fees — We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t owe any attorney fees unless we win. Case costs may still apply regardless of the outcome. During your initial consultation, our lawyers will go over the fees and other potential costs with you and answer any questions you may have.
- Access to Medical Care — Our injury lawyers can help connect you with medical specialists in your area. We can help you receive appropriate care for your recovery.
- Thorough Investigation — Our law firm conducts investigations into every case. We work with investigators, expert witnesses, and accident reconstructionists to support your claim.
- Strong Negotiation — Our attorneys can handle negotiations with insurance companies. We can evaluate whether the settlement offers you receive can cover your losses.
- Court Representation — We won’t hesitate to take your case to court if the insurance company denies or undervalues your claim.
If you’ve suffered an injury in a Lyft accident, our Lyft accident attorneys in Imperial County can assist you throughout the legal journey, from filing your case to reaching a resolution. We can help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact us to discuss your case.
Requirements For Driving With Lyft
To legally drive with Lyft, applicants must meet specific requirements set by the company and California state regulations. These standards ensure the safety of passengers and compliance with local laws.
Driver Requirements
Before driving for Lyft, drivers must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Applicants must have a valid California driver’s license (temporary licenses are acceptable).
- Drivers need to be 25 years or older.
- They must have a smartphone capable of running the Lyft Driver app.
- They should provide a clear photo to complete their driver profile.
- A driver screening must be completed, including a driving history and criminal background check. California law disqualifies applicants with certain criminal histories from driving for Lyft.
- Submit proof of car insurance issued in California with their name on the policy.
- Present a recent vehicle inspection report from a licensed California mechanic.
- Include a valid business license to operate legally.
Vehicle Requirements
Vehicles must meet specific safety and reliability standards, including the following criteria:
- It must have four doors.
- The vehicle should have 5–8 seats, including the driver’s seat.
- The vehicle should be from 2008 or newer.
- It cannot be a taxi, stretch limousine, or non-Express Drive rental.
- The vehicle cannot be titled as salvage, rebuilt, or non-repairable.
- A California license plate is required.
California Vehicle Inspection
Before being accepted to drive for Lyft, the driver must have their vehicle inspected by a licensed mechanic. After the inspection, they should upload the completed form to the Lyft Driver app or dashboard. They can also use the app to find an inspection location.
Vehicle inspections are required every 12 months or after driving 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. This mileage limit includes any driving done aside from the Lyft trips.
These requirements are made to ensure not only compliance but also the safety of all passengers and commuters. If you’re injured in a Lyft accident because a driver failed to meet these standards, speak to our experienced attorneys in Imperial County. We will serve as your advocates in seeking appropriate legal remedies for your case.
Types Of Lyft Collisions
An accident involving a Lyft vehicle can occur in a variety of ways, each with unique challenges. When filing a claim, you need to be aware of the kind of collision you had. It can be instrumental in determining who caused what.
In Imperial County, these are the most common types of Lyft-related accidents:
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents with Lyft happen when a driver isn’t paying attention or follows another vehicle too closely. If a car in front suddenly stops without enough space, the driver behind may not have enough time to brake, leading to a crash. Driving while intoxicated or drowsy also contributes to rear-end accidents.
Most of the time, the rear driver is at fault for these accidents, but sometimes that’s not the case. If the vehicle in front suddenly stops in an active traffic lane or reverses unexpectedly, the front driver could be held responsible for the collision. In this complex situation, consulting with Lyft accident lawyers in Imperial County can help identify who is at fault.
Side-Impact Collisions
Such crashes, also known as T-bone accidents, occur when a vehicle strikes another from the side, forming a “T” shape. This collision often happens at intersections when one driver fails to yield, runs a red light, or disregards stop signs.
Side impacts are dangerous for vehicle occupants since the sides of vehicles are less capable of absorbing collision forces than the front or rear. If you sustain injuries due to a side-impact Lyft accident, call our Imperial County attorneys for legal guidance. We can help estimate the value of your case, negotiate with insurers, and seek fair compensation for your losses.
Head-On Collisions
Although they don’t occur as frequently as other accidents, head-on collisions are among the most dangerous. These crashes usually happen when a vehicle and another car traveling in opposite directions collide. The collision is substantially more devastating when it happens at high speeds. As a result of the strong impact, a significant number of victims die or suffer major injuries.
If you’ve been injured due to a head-on Lyft accident, figuring out who is at fault can be challenging. Our Imperial County lawyers can help evaluate shared liability.
Sideswipe Incidents
When a Lyft driver changes lanes or merges without checking their blind spots, their vehicle can collide with the side of another. These sideswipe accidents are risky because the initial collision may cause one or both vehicles to lose control. If the driver loses control, they could collide with other cars, bicycles, pedestrians, or roadside objects.
The consequences can be devastating, including physical injuries, property damage, and even death. Therefore, drivers should take all necessary precautions, such as following the speed limit and avoiding distractions. If their negligence causes such collisions and injures you, our Lyft accident lawyers in Imperial County can help you seek just compensation under the law.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
An unexpected hazard can result in a crash, such as colliding with an animal and striking debris or cargo from another vehicle. For example, a Lyft vehicle might collide with a lamppost, guardrail, or other roadside structure if it swerves off the road to avoid a large object or sudden obstacle.
Sometimes, these accidents result from the negligence of others, such as poorly maintained roadwork zones or reckless driving that forces a Lyft driver to take evasive action. In such cases, even a single-vehicle crash can result in severe injuries, especially if the vehicle hits something substantial.
Multi-Vehicle Accidents
In a chain reaction of rear-end collisions, a Lyft vehicle striking another car can trigger multiple subsequent crashes. Such accidents can be severe. Due to the complex nature of the incident, the injuries tend to be more severe, and multiple insurance policies may be applied.
In this type of accident, several drivers may be at fault for the crash. Our Imperial County Lyft accident attorneys can help you identify the responsible party and seek compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Rollover Accidents
Most of the time, speeding causes rollover incidents. If a Lyft driver goes too fast and makes a quick turn, the vehicle could lose its balance and flip over. They can also happen when drivers are tired, distracted, or under the influence. Additionally, if a Lyft is hit by another car or encounters an obstacle and is forced off the road, the vehicle may roll over.
In some cases, passengers or drivers may be ejected from the vehicle during the rollover, causing serious injuries upon impact. During worst-case scenarios, rollover accidents can trigger dangerous fires if fuel or cargo ignites. An explosion can further increase the risk of injury or death. If this happens, seek the help of our Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers. We can discuss your options if you need medical providers who may accept lien-based treatment.
Blind Spot Accidents
Many drivers get into accidents because they don’t check their blind spots before merging or changing lanes. There are areas around every vehicle that the driver can’t see directly. If drivers don’t check these blind spots, they could miss smaller cars, motorcycles, cyclists, or pedestrians.
The impact varies depending on the speed and angle. Still, everyone involved can sustain serious injuries. Accidents in blind spots are usually caused by reckless driving, which shows how important it is for any driver to be alert and check their surroundings carefully.
Each type of collision presents its own set of challenges and legal considerations. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Imperial County provide legal support tailored to your specific situation. Our Imperial County injury law firm can offer guidance and dedicated legal representation throughout your case, from filing to resolution.
Hurt in a Lyft Accident?
Usual Causes Of A Lyft Accident
Many people believe that incidents are unavoidable, but in reality, they occur because of someone else’s negligence. Like other car accidents, Lyft collisions can typically be linked to avoidable factors, such as:
- Distracted Driving — Lyft drivers monitor their smartphones, use their GPS, and converse with passengers while driving. This constant multitasking makes it easy for them to lose focus.
- Speeding — Some Lyft drivers speed in an attempt to complete more rides quickly. Speeding is risky because it reduces reaction time and control over the vehicle.
- Fatigue Driving — Many Lyft drivers work long hours, especially late at night or early in the morning, which can lead to exhaustion. Fatigued drivers have slower response times and are less alert, making them more prone to mistakes behind the wheel.
- Reckless Driving — Reckless behaviors like running red lights, failing to yield, or tailgating are dangerous driving habits that increase the likelihood of collisions, especially in busy or high-traffic areas.
- Impaired Driving — Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and slows reaction times.
- Unfamiliar Routes — When Lyft drivers don’t know the area well, they may make sudden or erratic maneuvers, like unexpected stops or turns.
- Unsafe Pick-up Locations — Lyft drivers sometimes stop in unsafe or illegal spots to pick up passengers, such as busy intersections or narrow streets. Parking in these areas can block traffic and create dangerous situations.
- Poorly Maintained Vehicles — Vehicle malfunctions, such as faulty brakes or engine problems, can result in serious accidents.
Our Imperial County attorneys investigate the potential causes of the Lyft accident. We can gather CCTV footage, witness statements, and police reports. Our team can also review alcohol test results and driving records to identify the cause of the collision.
Common Lyft Accident Injuries
Lyft accidents can result in various injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Here are some of the most common injuries sustained in these collisions:
- Cuts and Lacerations — Deep cuts can cause blood loss, infection, and possibly scarring or disfigurement. These can lead to high medical costs and impact the total compensation in a personal injury claim.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — A collision can injure muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These soft tissue injuries include bruises, sprains, and strains, which can cause chronic pain and reduced mobility.
- Fractures — Fractures can occur anywhere in the body, including the arm, leg, ribs, and face. The severity and location of fractures influence the cost and complexity of your claim.
- Whiplash — Neck pain, dizziness, and headaches caused by whiplash may last for weeks or months. Such symptoms may require ongoing treatment, increasing the financial burden on you and increasing your possible settlement amount.
- Head Injuries — In severe Lyft accidents, passengers can experience head trauma that may result in cognitive problems and long-term impairments. These injuries often necessitate costly and prolonged medical care, significantly affecting your Lyft accident claim.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — A serious accident can severely damage the spinal cord, leading to anything from temporary discomfort to permanent paralysis. In severe cases, the impact on quality of life and the need for extensive care dramatically increase the expenses you can claim.
- Burns — Fires in vehicles or hot surfaces may cause burns to passengers. The treatment and recovery process for burns can be lengthy and expensive, influencing your overall costs.
If you sustain any of these injuries, call our Lyft accident lawyers in Imperial County. We can refer you to qualified doctors in your location to help you get your injuries treated and documented.
Understanding Lyft’s Insurance Policies
Lyft drivers are covered by state-regulated personal auto insurance and company-specific insurance policies. If the driver isn’t using the app, their auto insurance covers damages when an accident happens. The coverage provided by Lyft varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the incident.
Here’s a breakdown of Lyft’s insurance coverage:
App On And Waiting For Rides
Lyft offers third-party liability insurance to cover specific accidents if the driver’s auto insurance doesn’t provide sufficient coverage.
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury.
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
- $25,000 per accident for property damage.
En Route To Pick Up A Passenger Or When The Ride Is In Progress:
Lyft maintains the following insurance coverage:
- Liability coverage provided by Lyft in the event of an accident involving another person is at least $1,000,000.
- In addition to MedPay and occupational accident coverage, Lyft may cover uninsured or underinsured motorists.
- When a driver has comprehensive & collision insurance, Lyft provides contingent coverage up to the car’s value, with a $2,500 deductible.
This policy covers passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, and anyone else injured. If you need help, our Imperial County attorneys handling Lyft accident cases can assist you with navigating these intricate insurance policies and filing a claim.
Compensation For Lyft Accident Claims
If you’re injured in a Lyft accident, you can seek compensation through two main types of damages.
Economic damages are calculated based on actual financial losses. They include:
- Lost wages, including future earnings.
- Medical expenses for hospital stays, treatments, or medications.
- Property repair or replacement costs.
Non-economic damages are more subjective and do not have a set calculation method. They can cover:
- Pain And Suffering
- Loss Of Enjoyment Of Life
- Emotional Distress
- Permanent Scarring Or Disfigurement
- Disability Or Physical Impairment
In most cases, California has no statutory caps on the damages you can seek. Our Imperial County Lyft accident attorneys can help you verify the full scope of your damages. We can calculate all your economic and non-economic losses to help you pursue the settlement you may be eligible for under the law.
Liable Parties In A Lyft Accident
Multiple parties may be held responsible for the damages and injuries you sustained following a Lyft accident. Our lawyers can help investigate and identify who could be at fault, which is crucial for seeking fair compensation.
Here are some of the potentially liable parties:
- Lyft Driver — Lyft drivers are responsible for operating their vehicles safely. If a driver acts negligently, such as texting while driving or driving under the influence, they can be held accountable for any accidents caused by their actions.
- Lyft Company — Although Lyft conducts background checks and driver screenings, mistakes in hiring or retention can still occur. These errors may allow unqualified or reckless individuals to drive, which can make the company liable when accidents happen.
- Vehicle Manufacturer or Maintenance Provider — If the accident occurred due to mechanical failure or poor maintenance, such as faulty brakes or steering issues, the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance provider may be liable for not ensuring the car’s safety.
- Passenger — Sometimes, disruptive passengers can cause distractions or interfere with the driver, leading to a collision. If a passenger’s behavior directly contributed to the crash, they may share responsibility.
To help evaluate fault, our Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers can investigate and review all available evidence. We may also be able to analyze the vehicle’s black box data and cell phone records to uncover potential driving distractions or negligence.
If multiple parties are involved, the concept of comparative negligence applies. This means that each party’s degree of fault is assessed, and compensation may be adjusted based on the percentage of fault each party holds. Our Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers can guide you in seeking accountability and pursuing compensation allowed by law.
How To Establish Negligence In Lyft Accident Claims
To establish grounds for a negligence case and qualify for damages, you need to demonstrate these four main elements:
- Duty of Care — Lyft drivers are required by law to exercise the utmost care when transporting passengers to ensure they reach their destination safely.
- Breach of Duty — A breach of duty occurs when a Lyft driver fails to meet their responsibility to act with the highest degree of care. For example, Lyft drivers who speed or are distracted while driving fail to take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their passengers.
- Causation — You must demonstrate that the driver’s reckless behavior caused your injury.
- Damages — You must establish that you suffered losses, such as medical expenses or lost wages, due to the accident.
With the help of our experienced Imperial County attorneys, you can establish the crucial elements of negligence in your Lyft accident claim. We can investigate the collision, gather and analyze evidence, and work with experts to build a solid case.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident
Being in a collision can be overwhelming, especially if you get injured. However, knowing what to do after a rideshare accident can protect your rights and allow Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers to build a well-supported case on your behalf. Consider the following:
Check For Injuries
Check yourself for any signs of injury, discomfort, or dizziness. Stay calm and look for obvious and less obvious injuries, as some symptoms might not be immediately apparent. Call emergency services to address any urgent medical needs.
Call Emergency Services And The Police
Immediately call 911 to get medical help for yourself and others who sustained injuries. Moreover, you can contact the local police to file an official accident report. This report records the details of the incident, which will be important for filing a claim.
Move To A Safe Place
To prevent more collisions, move your car (if possible) to a safer area away from traffic. Staying clear of traffic protects you from additional harm and helps emergency services reach the scene more efficiently.
Gather Information And Collect Evidence
Obtain the driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, insurance company, and policy number. After that, snap clear photos of the accident, including any injuries you have sustained. These will help document what happened and support your claim. Don’t forget to get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident. Their accounts can be valuable if you need additional pieces of evidence for your case.
Report The Accident To Lyft
File an incident report with Lyft as soon as possible. To do so, click on the “Start Accident Report” option. Filling out the report takes just 10–15 minutes. Contact the Claims Customer Care team if you need assistance or have questions regarding the process.
Speak With A Skilled Attorney
When you require legal representation, our Imperial County Lyft accident attorneys can support you. We know our way around negotiations and litigation. We can guide you through the claim process, discuss your rights, and help you explore your options. Take the first step in pursuing just compensation by completing our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
What initially seemed like a routine rear-end collision, commonly known as a “fender bender,” turned into a significant settlement with high maximum limits for a client who suffered lower back disc injuries. The case was resolved just two weeks before the scheduled trial commencement.– BRIAN BEECHER
Lyft Accident Statistics
A study by the University of Chicago examined U.S. accident rates before and after the rise of rideshare services like Lyft. Based on the research, the popularity of ridesharing increased with a notable 3% rise in fatal accidents annually.
The COVID-19 pandemic, along with increases in violent crime and traffic accidents, influenced Lyft’s Safety Transparency Report for 2020–2022. The report found that safety incidents were exceptionally rare, occurring in only 0.0002% of rides. During this time, there were 111 motor vehicle fatalities, 23 fatal physical assaults, and 2,651 cases of the five most severe types of sexual assault.
When Lyft accidents do occur, they can have severe impacts on victims. Our skilled Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers are committed to helping those injured by advocating for their rights. With our assistance and legal knowledge, you can focus on your health while we handle the legal aspects of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lyft Accidents
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Lyft Accident Case?
In California, you have two years to file a Lyft accident lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. Although some exceptions may apply depending on the circumstances, you must file within this period. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. To discuss your legal options, consult with our Imperial County Lyft accident attorneys.
Do I Need To Hire A Lawyer After A Lyft Collision?
Though it’s not required by law, we highly suggest hiring a lawyer after a collision. Lyft accidents can be more complicated than regular car crashes because they involve multiple parties and intricate insurance policies.
To handle these cases, you must be familiar with personal injury law and ridesharing regulations. If you need assistance, our Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers can help with your case. We can guide you through the claims process, help build a strong case, and assist you in seeking a fair settlement for your losses.
Should I Settle My Claim If I Have Been Injured In A Lyft Accident?
Litigation can be time-consuming and expensive. Settling is often a faster way to resolve your case. However, you should only settle your claim after consulting an attorney. We can help you review the compensation offered and assess whether it covers all your losses. Our experienced Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers can help you determine if the settlement offer is fair or if it’s more advantageous to go to court.
Who Is Eligible To File A Lyft Accident Claim?
Whether you are a passenger in the Lyft vehicle, another driver involved in the collision, or a pedestrian injured due to the Lyft driver’s actions, you have the right to file a claim. In the event of a fatal accident, the family members or legal representatives of the deceased may submit a wrongful death claim to seek financial compensation for their losses.
Note that undocumented immigrants are also eligible to file a claim for damages. Under California law, you have the right to pursue compensation for any injuries or losses you have sustained, regardless of your immigration status. Our Imperial County Lyft accident lawyers can explain your legal rights and options.
Contact Our Imperial County Lyft Accident Lawyers
Arash Law is committed to helping you seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses. If you think, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” you would be right in most cases. Our experienced Lyft accident attorneys in Imperial County can provide the skilled legal guidance you need to navigate your case and seek the financial compensation available under the law. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free case review.
Our lawyers proudly serve clients throughout Imperial County, including Winterhaven, Salton, Imperial, Holtville, Glamis, El Centro, Calipatria, Calexico, and Brawley. Our law firm also offers services to neighboring counties, such as San Diego, Riverside, Orange, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Ventura, Kern, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo.
