Concord Lyft Accident Attorneys
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Our Concord Lyft Accident Attorneys Can Guide You Through Your Legal Options
Under California law, victims can file personal injury cases if someone else’s negligence caused a Lyft accident. In Concord, the largest city in Contra Costa County, many residents and visitors use rideshare services like Lyft for convenient travel. However, driver carelessness on local highways and freeways, such as I-680, SR 242, and Highway 4 East, puts them at risk of injury. To have a valid claim, they must demonstrate that the other party’s actions led to their injuries and losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages.
After such crashes, Lyft accident victims can sustain injuries that disrupt their daily routines. If negligence was involved, they can seek compensation for their losses through a personal injury claim. However, these cases can result in complex legal issues. They’re more likely to involve several parties and complicated rideshare insurance policies.
Managing a claim can thus be difficult, especially for victims recovering from their injuries. In these cases, Concord Lyft accident attorneys can help review crashes, prepare claims, and pursue compensation.
Why Lyft Accident Cases In Concord Are Different
Concord Lyft accident claims often involve multi-layered insurance policies and multiple potential at-fault parties. Local traffic patterns and regulations can further affect liability determinations in the city’s rideshare cases.
Here are some things to consider when pursuing a Lyft accident case in Concord:
- The city experiences road congestion during 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m., when people commute to and from work. Heavy traffic is more likely to occur at the I-680 north near Walnut Creek and Highway 4 East near Port Chicago Highway. These factors may affect how Lyft accidents are investigated. The high volume of vehicles passing through could degrade evidence of a crash before authorities can block off the scene, making key visual indicators harder to preserve.
- The Concord Police Department and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) handle accident investigations and enforce traffic laws. Insurers rely on their incident reports when reviewing claims. Jurisdiction depends on where a Lyft accident occurs, and each agency has different reporting procedures. These issues may delay how quickly insurers obtain the necessary documentation to investigate crashes.
- If settlement negotiations with insurers fail, victims or Concord Lyft accident attorneys can file lawsuits with the Superior Court of Contra Costa, which typically handles civil claims.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Proving Liability In Rideshare Crashes
To establish liability in a Concord Lyft crash, injured victims in California must prove that the at-fault party was negligent. They must demonstrate the following four elements of negligence:
- The defendant owed them a duty of care. In claims for Lyft accidents, the focus is often on the motorist’s legal obligation to take reasonable care when driving to prevent harm.
- The defendant breached that duty. For instance, they might have been driving beyond the posted speed limit of 35mph on Ayers Road.
- There is a causal link between the breach, the accident, and the victim’s injuries. In line with the above example, the crash would not have happened if the driver hadn’t sped.
- The injured party suffered actual losses.
Who Is Typically Responsible For Damages In Concord Lyft Accidents?
The car insurance system in Concord follows California’s at-fault (tort) law. The driver or party at fault for the automobile accident pays for related losses. In most cases, their party’s auto insurance covers damages. A Lyft accident could result in financial liability for several parties, including:
- The Lyft Driver — The driver could be liable for an accident caused by negligent actions such as distracted driving or speeding. They are generally responsible for damages if the crash occurred while they were offline on the Lyft app.
- A Third-Party Driver — In some cases, a third-party driver may be liable. If you sustained injuries due to their negligence, you may file a claim against them.
- Lyft — In rare cases, Lyft itself can be liable. The rideshare company could be held responsible for its employees’ negligence or for its own. For example, they may be liable for failing to hire competent drivers. However, keep in mind that Proposition 22 classifies rideshare drivers as independent contractors, not employees. As such, Lyft is generally not responsible for their actions.
- The Vehicle Manufacturer — Sometimes, malfunctioning auto parts, such as brakes or tires, can cause a crash. The car’s manufacturer may face liability in these cases. If the accident involves a self-driving vehicle, liability could extend to the software company as well.
Determining liability takes a thorough investigation of the crash. Analyzing the damage to both vehicles, for instance, can help reconstruct how the collision occurred. It can also help Concord Lyft accident attorneys identify the at-fault party.
How Insurance Usually Applies In Lyft Accident Cases
Concord Lyft collision cases are typically resolved through insurance. Coverage varies depending on who is at fault. In Concord, compensation for rideshare crashes usually comes from:
- The at-fault driver’s auto insurance.
- A government entity’s liability coverage if road hazards or defects are involved.
- A vehicle manufacturer’s coverage if a defective product caused the crash.
In many cases, Lyft’s tiered insurance may apply. The California Public Utilities Commission, which regulates transportation network companies such as Lyft, enforces the following insurance requirements for these three rideshare periods:
- Period 1 — The driver is online on the Lyft app. During this period, the driver is usually waiting for a passenger to request a ride. In this period, Lyft must provide the driver with:
- $50,000 in primary coverage for death or personal injury per person.
- $100,000 for death or personal injury per incident.
- $30,000 for property damage.
- $200,000 in liability insurance coverage.
- Period 2 — A passenger has requested a ride, and the driver has accepted it. During this period, the driver is currently driving to pick up a passenger. Lyft is required to provide up to $1 million in primary commercial coverage during this time.
- Period 3 — The driver has arrived and picked up their passenger. At this point, the driver is transporting them to their destination. In this period, Lyft must provide up to $1 million in primary commercial insurance coverage and $1 million in uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
The driver’s liability coverage usually applies if the accident occurred outside of these periods. California Insurance Code §11580.1b requires drivers to carry liability insurance. The current minimum requirements are as follows:
- $30,000 for injury/death to one person.
- $60,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
- $15,000 for property.
Lyft accident claims frequently involve disputes over liability and the severity of the victim’s injuries. More often, insurers and Concord Lyft accident attorneys hold lengthy discussions over which insurance policy applies. Usually, it’s possible to resolve your claim through negotiations. If not, you may need to take your case to court.
Hurt In A Lyft Accident?
Severe Injuries Caused By Lyft Accidents
A Lyft crash in Concord can result in more serious injuries, especially given the high speeds at which vehicles travel along the I-680, SR 242, and Highway 4 East.
Here’s a glance at some of the common injuries sustained by Lyft accident victims:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Lacerations
- Internal injuries
Children are more vulnerable in these collisions. Their injuries may permanently impact their physical development and future ability to work. Depending on the severity of a car accident in Concord, victims might also develop symptoms of anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.
The bodily and psychological harm caused by Lyft crashes can result in significant medical expenses. Doctors may prescribe surgeries, chiropractic sessions, and therapy as part of a victim’s recovery plan. Insurers more closely review these expenses since they often warrant larger settlement amounts. That may cause disputes during the claims process.
What Typically Happens After A Lyft Accident Claim Begins
To seek compensation after a Concord Lyft accident, the injured party must go through a structured claims process. Here’s what usually happens:
- They report the accident to Lyft via its app and to the Concord PD or CHP, depending on where the collision occurred.
- Lyft’s third-party insurance administrator and other insurers investigate the accident.
- Relevant parties gather evidence such as police reports and medical records.
- Insurers determine fault and damages in line with California law.
- Both sides enter settlement negotiations.
- If settling isn’t possible, victims or Concord Lyft accident attorneys may file a lawsuit with the Contra Costa County Superior Court.
What Damages Are Available After A Rideshare Crash?
After a Lyft accident in Concord, injured victims may be eligible to seek compensatory damages under California law. These are typically categorized into the following:
- Economic Damages — These cover financial losses. You could file a claim for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
- Non-Economic Damages — These compensate for intangible losses. Examples include loss of consortium, pain and suffering, and mental distress.
- Punitive Damages — Under California Civil Code 3294, these are exemplary damages intended to punish the defendant for oppression, malice, and fraud. Punitive damages also serve as a deterrent for similar misconduct. They must be demonstrated with clear and convincing evidence, as they apply only in limited situations.
What Are Some Common Causes Of Lyft Crashes In Concord?
Lyft accidents in California can occur for various reasons. Pinpointing the cause of a crash is essential, as it can affect how Concord Lyft accident attorneys, insurers, and courts assess liability and fault under state law.
The following are common causes of these crashes:
- Distracted Driving — All drivers are susceptible to distractions behind the wheel. However, Lyft drivers specifically need to use their phones while on the job. They rely on phones to accept rides, navigate routes, and communicate with passengers. These tasks can divert their attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Speeding — This factor can significantly shorten a driver’s ability to react to hazards and avoid accidents. Speeding can be particularly risky in populous areas of Concord where Lyft operates, such as the downtown Todos Santos Plaza district. The risk of accidents may be higher if rideshare drivers try to complete a set number of rides per day.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) — Alcohol consumption significantly impairs a driver’s cognitive function and decision-making skills. Impairment can thus increase the likelihood of a crash.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance — Collisions may result from worn tires, faulty brakes, or engine problems. In these cases, a parts manufacturer or Lyft driver responsible for regular maintenance may be held accountable for a crash.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Concord Lyft Accident Claims
After a Lyft accident, victims often need to go through a complicated claims process. Below are some of the common questions they ask about Lyft accident cases in Concord.
How Is Liability Determined In A Lyft Accident?
California law governs liability in Concord Lyft accidents. It establishes that an at-fault party is responsible for the damage they cause. However, layered insurance policies and multiple liable parties can complicate Lyft crashes.
As such, California adheres to the principle of pure comparative fault. Under this doctrine, multiple parties can share liability for an accident. Injured victims who contributed to a crash can still seek damages. However, their compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to them. For example, if you bear 20% of the fault, the court reduces your award by 20%.
How Long Does A Lyft Accident Settlement Take?
It can take anywhere between a few months and more than a year to settle. The time it takes Concord Lyft accident attorneys to complete each step of the claims process can affect this timeline. These tasks include:
- Accident investigation
- Evidence-gathering
- Case preparation
- Claim filing
- Settlement negotiations
You may need to file a lawsuit if negotiations fail. A trial can extend resolution timelines, especially if the Superior Court of Contra Costa cannot handle your case right away.
How Long Do I Have To File My Lyft Accident Claim?
In California, you only have two years from the date of your Lyft accident to file a claim. The law defines this time limit as the statute of limitations. The Contra Costa County Superior Court will likely dismiss your case if you file after the deadline.
That said, certain exceptions can affect the statute of limitations. Here are some examples:
- Cases Involving Minors — The clock only starts on their 18th birthday. Before then, a parent or legal guardian can file a claim on their behalf.
- Government Claims — An injury may be partially the fault of a government agency. For example, a County Connection bus might have crashed into your Lyft vehicle. Under California law, you have only six months after the accident to submit a government claim.
- Delayed Discovery Rule — Sometimes, injuries do not show up right away. The statute of limitations may thus begin on the day the plaintiff became aware or should have reasonably discovered their injury.
What Evidence Is Needed To Sue Lyft?
To build a strong case for compensation after a Lyft accident, you can gather:
- Concord PD or CHP accident reports.
- Medical records and bills related to your injuries.
- Statements from people who witnessed the accident.
- Photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
- Lyft ride history and driver information.
Will My Settlement Be Taxable?
Certain portions of a Lyft accident settlement are not taxable. In particular, damages for medical treatment or pain and suffering are exempt because they compensate existing losses.
However, taxes may apply to any amount that covers punitive damages, lost wages, and accrued interest. Additionally, any compensation you receive for mental anguish or emotional distress that does not stem from a physical injury can be taxable.
What Our Attorneys Can Do For Your Concord Lyft Accident Case
Our Lyft accident attorneys serving Concord can help you pursue a legal claim. If you’re thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” know that we can help you:
- Investigate the accident and gather crucial evidence.
- Manage deadlines and paperwork.
- Break down complex legal concepts and insurance policies.
- Communicate and negotiate with insurers.
- Present your case in court, if necessary.
Consult An Attorney After A Lyft Accident In Concord
Lyft and other rideshare companies have revolutionized the transportation landscape. These ridesharing companies offer convenient on-demand rides, hailed with a single tap. Unfortunately, as more people use these apps, rideshare accidents are becoming more likely. If you get injured in a Lyft collision on one of Concord’s busy roads, you may be seeking free accident lawyer advice.
Arash Law is ready to help. Our lawyers for Lyft accidents in Concord can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. We can investigate your crash and gather evidence to build a well-documented case. Our attorneys can also represent you in negotiations and, if necessary, in court.
For many victims, the cost of legal services may be an obstacle. If you’re one of them, you may be asking, “Do lawyers only get paid if they win?” At AK Law, we operate on a no-win, no-fee policy. Under this contingency fee arrangement, our attorneys don’t charge for their services unless you receive compensation through a settlement or court award.
You can call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free case review with our Concord personal injury lawyers. You can also fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form to schedule a free initial consultation with us and discuss your legal options.
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- Pleasant Hill
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- Walnut Creek
- Clayton
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- Benicia
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