Del Norte Lyft Accident Attorneys
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Life Moves Fast — Accidents Happen.Del Norte Lyft Accident Attorneys Can Help.
Did you suffer serious injuries after getting into an accident with a Lyft? If you were hurt in a Lyft accident due to negligence, we can help. Our Del Norte Lyft accident attorneys will make the at-fault parties pay for the harm you’ve suffered. Call (888) 488-1391 today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Del Norte County is a place for nature lovers, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Lyft provides locals and tourists with a reliable alternative to driving around the area, offering convenience and flexibility. However, with more vehicles on the road, the risk of traffic collisions increases. When accidents occur, the consequences can be severe, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens.
Arash Law can be your trusted advocate in your quest for justice. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, we have the resources to build a solid case for you. We’ll obtain financial compensation for your injuries and losses to help you and your family move forward.
How Our Del Norte Lyft Accident Attorneys At Arash Law Can Help
Our attorneys in Del Norte can assist you if you want to pursue legal action for your Lyft accident. Here are the ways we can help:
- Conducting A Thorough Investigation — Our legal team will collect evidence that may support your case, including medical records, witness accounts, and photos or video footage of the accident. These pieces of evidence play a crucial role in establishing liability and determining the extent of damages.
- Identifying Negligent Parties — We will dig deep into your accident to determine all parties responsible for your accident. While the drivers are often seen as primarily responsible for car accidents, we’ll also examine whether Lyft, the vehicle manufacturer, maintenance providers, and other agencies contributed to the collision.
- Calculating All Damages — You deserve to be compensated for all the damages you sustained. We will consider the costs of treatment and rehabilitation, diagnostics and testing, and long-term care. In addition to these medical expenses, our Del Norte Lyft accident attorneys take into account your current and future lost earnings, emotional trauma, and mental suffering.
- Handling Negotiations — We understand that negotiating with a negligent party and their insurance company can be frustrating and intimidating. Our experienced attorneys will handle all the negotiations on your behalf, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement. We won’t back down until we secure the best possible outcome.
- Presenting Your Case In Court — If we can’t agree on a reasonable settlement with the other parties, our experienced lawyers in Del Norte County will strategically present your case in court. Our goal is to advocate for you effectively and obtain the maximum award possible.
Gomez v. PG Transportation (settled on 8/11/2023) – settlement involving a man who was struck by a car resulting in a mild traumatic brain injury as well as other orthopedic injuries.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Understanding Lyft Insurance Coverages
Transportation network companies (TNCs) like Lyft are legally required to maintain commercial liability insurance to protect their drivers and riders. Coverage and limits depend on the driver’s status on the app, which can complicate your case.
Period 1
Once the driver has logged onto the app and begins waiting for a ride request, Lyft’s insurance takes effect. During this period, Lyft’s insurance has the following coverage limits:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person.
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident.
- $25,000 for property damage per accident.
Period 2 And Period 3
Once the driver is en route to pick up the passenger, Period 2 begins, and Period 3 starts when the passenger is picked up until the latter is dropped off at their destination. The coverage limits for these periods are as follows:
- $1,000,000 third-party liability.
- Uninsured/Underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage.
- Contingent comprehensive and collision (up to the vehicle’s actual cash value with a $2,500 deductible).
Our Del Norte Lyft accident attorneys are well-versed in the intricacies of insurance policies. We’ll identify which policy is applicable to your claim and negotiate aggressively with the adjusters to maximize it. We’ll also pursue all other possible avenues to secure maximum compensation for your losses.
Additional Rider Protection Under California Laws
Other regulations are in place to protect rideshare passengers. Lyft’s driver requirements include the following:
- Driver applicants should pass Lyft’s background checks.
- Lyft and other rideshare companies should disqualify applicants with felony convictions, violent crime records, and sexual offenses.
- Lyft and any other rideshare company should also not contract any driver who has been convicted of any of the following within the last seven years:
- Acts of terrorism.
- Fraud-related, theft, or property damage offenses.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- The rideshare company’s logo must be displayed on the front and back windshields of the vehicle, particularly when the driver is online. The logo provides a level of assurance to passengers that they are getting into an authorized Lyft vehicle, not a random car.
- Lyft drivers must not discriminate against persons with disabilities, including those who use assisted mobility devices.
- Lyft vehicles must meet all inspection and safety requirements.
Lyft may be negligent in hiring or retaining drivers when it fails to exercise reasonable care in ensuring that its drivers are qualified, competent, and trustworthy. Our Del Norte Lyft accident lawyers can help determine whether Lyft’s negligence contributed to the accident and your damages. Contact our Del Norte injury law firm for a free case review.
Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents
Lyft accidents can occur due to various factors. Driver error is one of the top contributors to these collisions. Here are the common causes that our Del Norte Lyft accident attorneys need to determine to identify the at-fault party:
- Lyft Driver’s Error — Lyft drivers can cause accidents through risky behaviors like distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, and recklessness, endangering themselves, passengers, and others on the road.
- Lyft’s Negligent Hiring Procedures — We’ll investigate if Lyft is also liable for your accident. If the at-fault driver has a recent driving arrest or has been convicted of a heinous crime, then they shouldn’t be allowed to drive for the company. In this case, we’ll hold Lyft responsible.
- Another Motorist’s Driving Mistake — Even if a Lyft driver is cautious, accidents can happen, often due to another driver’s negligence. If you’re injured as a passenger in such a collision, the at-fault driver is responsible for damages. Should their insurance fall short, Lyft’s insurance might cover the remaining costs.
- Vehicular Problems — Rideshare accidents may also happen due to vehicular problems, such as tire blowouts and brake failures. If the problem was due to neglect in maintenance, then the driver’s or Lyft’s insurance will pay for the damages. If the defective part was a manufacturing error, our Lyft and Uber accident lawyers in Del Norte can help you file a product liability claim.
- Poor Road Conditions — Poor road conditions, including potholes, unclear traffic signs, and rockslides, can complicate a journey and may lead to a Lyft accident. In such cases, the entity responsible for road maintenance (be it government or private) could be liable for any damages incurred.
Hurt In A Lyft Accident?
Common Injuries Sustained in Lyft Accidents
It’s important to know the various injuries Lyft accident victims can face to make a detailed claim. The kind of injuries and how serious they are play a big role in figuring out compensation. This includes not just the immediate medical costs but also long-term care, rehabilitation, and potential loss of income, among other factors.
Our Del Norte Lyft accident attorneys will work with your medical provider to determine the full extent of your damages. Among the common injuries sustained in Lyft accidents are:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — Ranging from mild to severe, they can impact cognitive functions and quality of life, underscoring the need for compensation that addresses long-term care and potential loss of earnings.
- Broken Bones — While some may only require a splint or cast, severe cases needing surgery can lead to substantial medical bills, making it crucial to accurately assess and claim these costs.
- Burns — These injuries can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement, affecting the victim’s emotional well-being and ability to work, which should be accounted for in the compensation.
- Back And Spinal Cord Injuries — These can result from the force of a collision and may require expensive surgeries and long-term rehabilitation, significantly increasing the financial burden on the victim.
- Amputation — The loss of a limb can drastically reduce mobility and independence, necessitating compensation for medical costs, prosthetics, and adapting living spaces, as well as for the emotional impact.
How Our Lyft Accident Attorneys Will Prove Negligence
In order to win your claim, our Lyft accident attorneys in Del Norte will prove that the liable parties were negligent. We will do this by establishing these four elements of negligence:
- Duty Of Care — We’ll establish that the liable party owed you a duty of care. For instance, Lyft drivers are held to the highest standard of care to ensure their passenger’s safety.
- Breach Of Duty — Our team will prove that the liable party breached their duty. For example, we’ll gather and present evidence that your Lyft driver was drunk during the accident.
- Causation — Next, we will prove that the liable party’s breach of duty caused the accident. For instance, we’ll show that the Lyft driver’s drunk driving directly caused the head-on collision.
- Damages — Lastly, our Del Norte Lyft accident lawyers will prove that you suffered losses due to the collision. Examples include medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and emotional or mental trauma.
Compensation You Can Recover
As an accident victim, you have the right to recover monetary compensation for the losses you sustained. Our industry-recognized Del Norte Lyft accident attorneys can help maximize your recovery. We will seek two types of damages: economic and non-economic.
- Economic damages are actual, tangible damages or expenses. They typically include the following:
- Current and future medical-related expenses.
- Repair and replacement costs of damaged property.
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity.
- Non-economic damages are subjective and intangible losses. They include:
- Emotional pain and mental suffering.
- Psychological trauma and emotional distress.
- Loss of relationship or consortium.
- Diminished quality of life.
In very rare cases, the court may also award punitive damages. This compensation is awarded to the plaintiff as a punishment to the defendant. The judge may order the defendant to pay you punitive damages if their actions were grossly negligent, intentional, or malicious.
The judge or jury will decide on the amount based on the evidence and losses presented. However, they will consider the victim’s contributory negligence or if the victim was also partly responsible. Since California is a comparative fault state, the award you will receive will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.
What You Should Do After A Lyft Accident
Any motor vehicle accident could leave you confused and disoriented. You might start asking, “Who should I call?” or “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Before you spiral into a series of unanswered questions, take a deep breath. Here are the steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your rights:
- Prioritize safety. If you’re a passenger, ask your driver to move the vehicle to the side of the road if it is safe to do so.
- Assess yourself for injuries. Immediately call 911 if you or anyone involved in the accident needs emergency medical assistance. Cooperate with the police and the paramedics once they arrive.
- Take photos of the accident, including the injuries you sustained, the extent of vehicle damage, road conditions, and weather. See if there are any witnesses. Ask for their names and contact information if you can.
- If you were a passenger, screenshot your Lyft ride details. That should include the driver’s name and vehicle model and make. Ask for the driver’s insurance information.
- Report the accident to Lyft and the proper authorities, such as the CHP or the DMV.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you should still see a doctor to ensure that you do not have any hidden injuries.
- Consult with the best Del Norte Lyft accident lawyers, especially if you intend to file a claim. We will also advise you on what to say to your insurance provider to protect your rights.
To the naked eye, this case was a simple rear-end auto crash where our client suffered a disc herniation in his lumbar spine requiring two epidural pain management injections to help him with his pain. But our team managed to secure the maximum policy limits of the at-fault party due to the lifelong pain and future medical care he would require.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Time Limit For Filing Your Lyft Accident Claim
The statute of limitations, or the time limit, for filing your personal injury claims in California is two years from the accident date. However, for claims involving government entities, you only have six months to file your claim. When you fail to file your claim during this period, you may no longer be allowed to pursue any claim related to the accident. Reach out to our Lyft accident attorneys in Del Norte to ensure the timely submission of your claim.
Lyft Accident Statistics
Researchers from the University of Chicago and Rice University have noted an increase in accident rates after rideshare services entered the U.S. market. Specifically, there has been a 3% increase in fatal accidents, equivalent to almost a thousand more deaths every year. The accident rates in major cities have also increased to a total of 3.5 accidents for every 100,000 people from 2 accidents per 100,000 people. The same increase in bicycle and pedestrian accidents has also been observed.
Additionally, Lyft published its Safety Transparency Report covering the years 2020 to 2022. It reported 111 motor vehicle fatalities. This represents a 14% increase in rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled and a 31% increase in incident frequency rate compared to that of the previous report.
Lyft maintains that safety incidents during trips are relatively rare. However uncommon, these numbers still represent lives forever changed and families grappling with grief. Our Del Norte Lyft accident lawyers are committed to helping these victims seek justice and fair compensation. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 for a complimentary consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need A Lawyer For A Lyft Accident Claim In Del Norte County?
Technically, you don’t need to have a lawyer to file a Lyft accident claim in Del Norte or anywhere in California. However, having experienced legal counsel can significantly increase your chances of getting compensation. Our Del Norte Lyft accident attorneys can aggressively represent your interests and negotiate with large insurance companies.
Although some may doubt the need for personal injury attorneys, many have experienced the advantages of hiring one. Arash Law has helped thousands of clients with their accident claims. We’re proud that most of them have positive things to say about our services. Here are some of our client testimonials:
“There aren’t enough words to say just how great Arash Law is.
They were able to help us during a difficult time and were so patient throughout the process, explaining the next steps, and letting us know what to expect. This team will not let you down. Thanks Arash Law we really appreciate it!”
— Andy S. (Google Reviews)
“I would highly recommend the Arash Law to anyone.
They represented me and my family when we were in a serious accident. The concern and care they gave, immediately made us feel at ease. I was really satisfied with the settlement I received, thank you so much Arash Law!”
— Maria A. (Yelp)
Should I File A Claim With Lyft After My Accident?
If you sustained serious injuries or your loved one died in a Lyft accident, then you should file a claim. With California’s comparative fault principle, you may still file a claim even if you’re partly responsible for the accident. You may still claim for damages you sustained from Lyft’s or the driver’s insurance. Take advantage of our no-obligation consultation by calling our Del Norte Lyft accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391.
How Much Is My Rideshare Accident Claim Worth?
To put it simply, we can’t determine the value of your claim without knowing its details. Hire the Lyft accident lawyers Del Norte County residents rely on. Our team will work with experts such as economists and medical specialists to accurately calculate your damages. We will take into account current and future expenses, as well as long-term intangible damages. Our firm won’t stop until we identify all possible sources to maximize your compensation.
However, if you’re interested in learning about some of the rideshare cases we’ve successfully resolved, including the circumstances surrounding their claims, they are listed below:
- $1,550,000 — This is a motorcycle vs. rideshare company case. Our client suffered wrist and spinal injuries due to the accident.
- $1,125,000 — We were able to secure a settlement for the victim, who suffered lower back injuries due to the rideshare incident. The claim was against a rideshare company.
- $1,000,000 — We represented the rideshare driver in this case. The at-fault driver hit our client and immediately left the scene. One week before arbitration, the matter was settled for maximum insurance limits.
Arash Law takes pride in delivering successful results for clients. In fact, we have recovered over $750 million in settlements for victims throughout California.
How Long Will It Take To Receive My Settlement?
The shortest Lyft accident claim settlement process may take two to three months. This is possible if Lyft doesn’t dispute liability and has no other concerns. If they do, the settlement may take at least six months or more.
In general, civil claims are settled privately to save time and money. However, if the other party refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, our top-notch Lyft accident attorneys in Del Norte are prepared to take your case to court.
I Don’t Feel Any Pain After My Lyft Accident. Should I See A Doctor?
After a Lyft accident, or any vehicular accident for that matter, you should see a medical professional right away. Some injuries can be masked by adrenaline and endorphins, so you won’t notice the symptoms right away. However, these injuries can worsen if not treated immediately.
Furthermore, seeking medical attention for your injuries will generate necessary medical records. Our Del Norte Lyft accident lawyers will use these documents as evidence in your claim.
Who Can File A Lyft Accident Claim In California?
In California, every individual affected by a Lyft accident has the right to file a claim, with no exceptions based on personal circumstances such as immigration status, race, gender, and more. Our team of Lyft accident attorneys in Del Norte is committed to ensuring that no one uses your situation against you in your claim. Additionally, we are proud to offer services in multiple languages, including Arabic, Korean, and Farsi, among others, thanks to our multilingual staff. They are ready to assist with translations to keep you informed and engaged at every step of the process as part of our comprehensive approach to supporting our clients.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Lyft Accident Attorney?
You do not need to pay any upfront fees when you hire our Del Norte Lyft accident attorneys. Instead, we work on a contingency fee basis. Our lawyers typically charge between 33% and 40% of the total compensation we’ll win for you. If we don’t win your case, we won’t charge you anything.
Consult With The Lyft Accident Lawyers Del Norte Trusts!
As one of the best personal injury law firms in California, Arash Law can help you thoroughly investigate your case and identify all liable parties. Our Del Norte Lyft accident lawyers will also gather key evidence to strengthen your case. We will obtain compensation that reflects the full extent of your losses to help you and your family move forward.
Schedule a free consultation with the best Lyft accident attorneys in Del Norte by calling us at (888) 488-1391 or filling out this form. Our expert lawyers also provide legal assistance throughout Del Norte, including Klamath, Gasquet, Requa, Smith River, Fort Dick, Hiouchi, Yontocket, and Crescent City. We also provide legal services in other counties and cities in California, such as Shasta County, Siskiyou County, Humboldt County, Los Angeles, Bakersfield, Riverside, San Diego, and Clearlake.
