Carlsbad Lyft Accident Lawyers
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Our Carlsbad Lyft Accident Lawyers Offer Experience And Knowledge, When You Need It Most
If you’re injured in a crash, our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers can help you recover the damages you’re entitled to. We will discuss your legal rights and advise you on what to do next. Turn to Arash Law for help. Dial (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Carlsbad is 35 miles north of Downtown San Diego and 87 miles south of Los Angeles. Popularly known as the home of Legoland California, it’s a coastal city with long, sandy beaches. Locals and tourists alike have an abundance of dining and drinking selections, along with other exciting things to do.
With all the activities in store for those who visit and reside in Carlsbad, many choose Lyft as their primary mode of transportation. The rideshare service is also popular among employees, who would rather relax as passengers than drive and look for a parking spot at their place of work.
Lyft completes thousands of rides per day, but not all of them end without a safety incident. Some trips lead to accidents, injuries, and even deaths. If you are hurt in a Lyft accident, you may have the right to claim compensation. Although Lyft provides insurance coverage, filing a claim isn’t straightforward. There is a legal process to be carried out, which can get complicated quickly.
Seek the help of the best Lyft accident lawyers Carlsbad relies on. Arash Law is one of the most reputable law firms in California. Under the direction of the renowned Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our attorneys have obtained more than $750 Million in compensation for our clients. We can offer you the legal support you need to recover your losses and pursue justice.
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
Do You Need Experienced Carlsbad Lyft Accident Lawyers?
When you hire experienced Lyft accident lawyers, you have a much better chance of getting the compensation that you are owed. With our help, you can recover your medical costs, lost income, and other damages, like pain and suffering.
Here are other reasons why you need our Carlsbad attorneys for your Lyft accident case:
- We are knowledgeable about the ridesharing industry and personal injury laws. Our attorneys are experts when it comes to laws governing insurance requirements, liability rulings, and prior court decisions.
- If you have physical injuries, you can rely on our legal team to handle the entire claims process while you focus on getting better.
- Our lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence to build a compelling case.
- We know best how to negotiate with insurance companies. You can rest assured that your legal counsel will fight for your best interests.
The legal processes following a Lyft crash are challenging to handle alone. You must have a reliable team of Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers you can trust to secure compensation on your behalf.
How Can Our Lyft Accident Attorneys Help?
Our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers can provide you with legal assistance in recovering fair compensation. You’ll face many challenges when filing a personal injury claim, but our lawyers will be with you every step of the way.
Our Lyft accident lawyers will help you with the following:
- Identifying who is liable for paying your damages
- Gathering proof to establish the at-fault parties’ negligence
- Preparing receipts and supporting documents to demonstrate the extent of your injuries
- Negotiating a fair deal with insurance companies
- Representing you in court if necessary
We will protect your claim from insurance companies, which are known for lowballing victims and intimidating them into accepting a lower settlement. Hiring our committed Carlsbad personal injury lawyers can help level the playing field and get you the best results for your claim.
Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a dangerous factor in Lyft accidents, just like in other car crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic collisions involving distracted drivers claimed 3,308 lives in 2022.
Using a navigation system, sending texts, making phone calls, and eating are a few common distractions that drivers engage in. Any of these distractions have the potential to put the driver, their passengers, and other road users at risk. Our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers have seen several cases wherein the at-fault driver was only distracted for a few seconds. They thought it wouldn’t do any harm, but the consequences showed otherwise.
Speeding
The disadvantage of being a Lyft driver is that their earnings depend on the number of rides they complete. As such, many drivers speed to finish trips as soon as possible, trying to squeeze in as many rides as they can before signing off. However, doing so significantly increases the risk of accidents. Speeding drivers will find it difficult to react to changing traffic signals, merging cars, crossing pedestrians, and other road hazards.
Speeding is one of the most dangerous forms of reckless driving, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities on the road. In 2021, speeding-related accidents led to 12,330 deaths.
If a speeding driver injures you, call our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers. We’ll gather evidence, like traffic citations, data from red light cameras, and their vehicle logs, if any, to hold them accountable.
Driving Under The Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited under California law. Lyft also has specific policies against it. Yet, some drivers continue to drink or take drugs and drive for various reasons, such as attempting to stay awake while driving or dealing with the stress of their jobs. Many also take drugs for recreational purposes, disregarding how these substances heavily affect their driving skills. An impaired driver might display the following:
- Reduced reaction time
- Blurred vision
- Decreased attention
- Heightened aggression
- Increased risk-taking behaviors
According to the NHTSA, 13,524 people lost their lives in traffic accidents involving drunk drivers in 2022. All of these deaths were avoidable. Our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers actively advocate against impaired driving, helping DUI victims recover the compensation they’re entitled to.
Disregarding Traffic Signs And Signals
- Changing lanes without signaling
- Running a red light
- Failing to yield the right of way
Reckless Driving In Inclement Weather
Although bad weather can contribute to accidents, driver negligence can heighten the associated risks. Driving appropriately in the given circumstances is part of fulfilling one’s legal obligation to keep others safe.
Drivers are expected to adjust and reduce their speed, be extra cautious, and make smart decisions according to the situation. When drivers don’t know how to handle bad weather, they might lose control of their vehicles, skidding unexpectedly and causing collisions.
If you want to know whether you have a valid claim against a driver in a weather-related crash, talk to our Lyft accident lawyers. We can identify any other potentially liable parties.
Failing To Maintain Vehicles Properly
Regular car maintenance is necessary to keep ridesharing services safe for both drivers and passengers, especially since Lyft vehicles deteriorate faster than regular cars. They travel more miles per day and spend longer hours on the road. Ignoring maintenance can result in serious problems like tire blowouts or braking issues, which may lead to Lyft and Uber accidents.
Our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers have noticed that a lot of drivers neglect to keep their vehicles up to standard in an effort to cut costs. Many of them haven’t considered just how much wear and tear their cars go through every day.
Driving In Dangerous Road Conditions
Potholes, cracks, rough or uneven surfaces, poor drainage, a lack of signage, and obstructions on the road are a few examples of driving hazards you might encounter. These circumstances can be dangerous for Lyft drivers, motorists, passengers, and other road users.
These road conditions do not only damage the car but may also result in collisions that cause injuries or deaths. If you are injured in an accident due to a road hazard, where can you claim compensation? Seek further assistance from our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys, who specialize in Lyft accident cases in Carlsbad, for advice on the right course of action.
Typical Lyft Accident Injuries
Lyft accident victims commonly sustain the following injuries:
- Cuts & Lacerations – Lyft accidents can cause wounds or rips in the skin. To avoid infection and encourage healing, stitches or medical attention are needed.
- Whiplash – These injuries happen when the head swings violently in one direction, putting strain on the ligaments and muscles in the neck. If left untreated, whiplash can cause long-term problems and disabilities.
- Back Injuries – Collisions can result in sprains, spinal cord injuries, and ruptured discs. The best Lyft accident lawyers in Carlsbad have represented many victims suffering from chronic pain, paralysis, and other life-changing conditions due to these injuries.
- Crushed & Amputated Limbs – Serious accidents can result in crush injuries or severe limb damage, requiring major reconstructive surgery or amputation.
- Broken Bones – Fractures often require extensive medical care for recovery. The injured might need casts or surgery to let their bones heal.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries – TBIs result from trauma to the head during collisions, potentially causing memory loss and cognitive impairment.
- Loss Of Vision – Eye injuries from collisions can result in partial or total blindness, making it hard for the person to work and carry out everyday duties.
- Internal Organ Damage – Penetrating injuries or blunt force trauma from Lyft accidents may cause internal bleeding, organ failure, and other complications. These injuries can be expensive to treat, so victims might have to go into debt to recover.
- Wrongful Deaths – In worst-case scenarios, accidents may claim a life, leaving the victims’ families to face financial and emotional consequences.
Regardless of the severity of your injuries, you deserve to be compensated for your medical bills and treatment costs. Get help from our good Lyft accident lawyers, who will hold the negligent parties accountable for your injuries and losses.
What Damages Can I Claim After A Lyft Accident?
With the help of our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers, you may be able to claim compensation for the following damages:
- Economic Damages – These are monetary losses that can be verified with tangible proof, such as bills, receipts, invoices, and payslips. These damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and treatments
- Lost wages and future earnings
- Repair or replacement costs of damaged or lost property
- The costs of hired services, like cleaning and childcare
- Non-Economic Damages – These refer to compensation for subjective, intangible losses, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental trauma and emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Permanent or temporary disability
- Punitive Damages – These are granted as punishment for the liable party, aiming to discourage deliberate, careless, or maliciously motivated behavior. Punitive damages are rarely awarded in California, often arising from situations like:
- Intentional injury
- Reckless injury
- Fraud and accident cover-up
For wrongful death claims, the surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for their losses. They may be able to claim damages for funeral and burial expenses, as well as the loss of financial support and companionship.
Our Carlsbad lawyers for Lyft accident cases will ensure that you get the compensation you deserve. We will investigate every loss you sustained and negotiate with the insurance companies.
What Happens If I Am Injured While Riding A Lyft?
If the Lyft driver’s negligence caused the accident, you will likely be entitled to obtain compensation. You may file a claim with the driver’s auto insurance policy provider or Lyft’s third-party liability coverage, whichever is applicable.
If another driver or a third party is to blame, then you’ll have to file a claim against their policy. In some cases, more than one party is liable for an accident, which means they’re all responsible for compensating you.
The process following a Lyft accident can get complicated quickly. If you are injured in a collision, consult with the Lyft accident attorneys Carlsbad trusts. By having our team on your side right from the start, the ensuing challenges will be easier to bear. Our attorneys have the knowledge and expertise required to handle and win Lyft accident claims. Our legal team will explain your legal options, advise you on the best course of action, and represent you in obtaining the financial recovery you deserve.
Who Is Responsible For A Lyft Accident?
To determine who’s responsible for compensating you, our Carlsbad attorneys will investigate your Lyft accident. We’ll identify all parties that displayed negligence and thus contributed to the crash. Below are the potentially liable parties in a Lyft crash:
- Lyft driver – If the driver’s reckless actions or inactions caused the accident, you may be entitled to file a claim against them.
- Ridesharing company – Lyft could also be held liable if it was directly negligent. However, if only its driver were involved, the company would only provide third-party liability coverage.
- The ridesharing vehicle’s owner – If the driver was using a vehicle they don’t own, the owner could share responsibility for an accident involving their car.
- Another third party – When an accident results from a faulty component, the carmaker, the parts manufacturer, or the maintenance provider could also be at fault. In other circumstances, other motorists and even pedestrians may have some level of contribution.
December 2016: $22M+ verdict in a mild traumatic brain injury case. The entire details of the case can be found in the public record filings by the defendant entity that sued its defense.– BRIAN BEECHER
Proving Negligence In A Lyft Accident Case
To successfully claim compensation, you must be able to prove the at-fault party’s negligence. To do so, your Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers must establish that:
- You were entitled to a duty of care from the liable party,
- They breached this responsibility,
- Their negligence led to the accident, and
- You incurred damages as a result of the accident.
All of these must be established in a claim. If not, the liable party will not be legally liable for compensating the victim.
Here’s an example of how it works when a Lyft driver is the defendant:
Drivers have a natural “duty of care” to operate their vehicles carefully. They must avoid causing harm to other road users, cyclists, and pedestrians. In hazardous or any other given conditions, they are expected to react reasonably and appropriately.
When they engage in negligent behaviors that could potentially harm others, they breach their duty of care. In a car accident, some examples of driver negligence per se (or presumed negligence) include:
- Texting or using the phone while driving
- Running a stop sign
- Speeding
- DUI (driving under the influence)
This breach of duty may or may not lead to an accident. If it does, and the driver injures another person or causes damage, they will likely be held liable.
Proving negligence isn’t easy, as you’ll need to gather a lot of evidence. The defendants would also try to deny their liability as much as possible, such as by claiming that your injuries didn’t result from the accident or that you had underlying medical conditions.
Our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers will help you prove the at-fault party’s negligence. Call us at (888) 488-1391 so that we can assist you in building a solid case and ensure you get fair compensation from those who are responsible.
How Are Lyft Insurance Coverage Periods Determined?
Our Lyft accident lawyers will investigate to determine the period in which the collision occurred. This will help us understand which insurance policy will cover the accident.
Here’s a breakdown of the different periods of Lyft accidents:
Period 0 – During this period, the driver has not yet logged into the Lyft app. Lyft’s insurance will not cover them, as they are presumed to be driving for personal reasons. If you’re injured, you may be able to file a claim with the driver’s auto insurance provider.
Period 1 – The driver is now waiting for a booking after logging into the app. During this period, Lyft’s limited insurance may apply with the following coverage amounts:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
Period 2 – The driver is now en route to pick up the passenger after accepting a ride request. In an accident at this stage, Lyft’s third-party liability insurance may apply:
- $1 Million for total liability
- First-party coverage, including uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage
Period 3 – The driver is now traveling to the passenger’s destination after picking them up. The coverage for this period is the same as in Period 2.
Our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers will explain this policy in more detail and explain how it may apply to your case. If you have any legal concerns, feel free to contact our office today.
Steps To Take After A Lyft Accident
Knowing what to do in case of a car accident involving Lyft can help you stay calm and keep your focus on ensuring your safety. After moving to a safe location, follow these steps:
- Check yourself for injuries. If you’re able, check on your companions and other people as well.
- Dial 911. Local law enforcement officers will be dispatched to your location to manage the traffic and investigate the accident. They will also create an incident report, which can support your claim later.
- Ask for medical assistance. Put your health and safety first by submitting to a check-up by the paramedics, even if you believe you aren’t significantly hurt. It’s also crucial to get a more comprehensive medical evaluation later to determine the full extent of your injuries.
- Record the situation. Take time-stamped pictures of the accident scene from several angles, including the intersection layout, traffic signs, skid marks, vehicles involved, weather, injuries, and property damage.
- Get the necessary information from each driver involved, such as their insurance cards, license plates, and driver’s licenses.
- Note down the contact information of any witnesses. Ask them if they can provide testimony to the police and if you can contact them later to testify if needed.
- Consult a ridesharing accident attorney. Our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers can offer professional advice regarding your legal options and the claims process.
Lyft Accident Statistics
Lyft safety accidents are statistically quite rare. Its Community Safety Report revealed that more than 99% of rides from 2017 to 2019 were completed without any safety incidents. Only 0.0002% had instances of motor vehicle fatalities, sexual assaults, and fatal physical assaults.
However, the report doesn’t go into detail about the actual number of accidents and assaults involving Lyft drivers. Many more people get injured due to safety incidents involving rideshare services, leading to thousands of dollars in medical costs and property damage each year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sue Lyft After An Accident?
Yes, you have the right to sue Lyft if they displayed negligence that directly resulted in the accident. The following are some situations in which Lyft may be held accountable:
- The company lets a driver keep their job after receiving a DUI citation.
- The company hires an applicant with a history of reckless driving.
- The company fails to enforce safety measures.
However, in most cases, you’ll be suing the driver rather than the company itself. Lyft’s insurance policies provide coverage for its drivers; thus, you may be qualified for compensation.
Get the help of a Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyer to file your claim and manage the entire process properly. You have a better chance of getting the most out of your claim if you have legal representation. Contact us today and let’s discuss if you have a valid claim against the rideshare company.
Will My Lyft Case Go To Trial?
Not all Lyft accident cases proceed to trial. Many Lyft accident and personal injury claims are resolved out of court.
Our goal as Lyft accident lawyers is to obtain fair compensation through negotiations with the at-fault parties and their insurers. However, if they refuse to meet our demands or try to deny their liability, we can take the case to trial. Our experienced litigation attorneys for Lyft accidents will represent you in court and advocate for your rights in front of a jury.
What If I Wasn't Wearing A Seatbelt At The Time Of The Accident?
If you weren’t wearing a seatbelt during the accident, you might sustain more severe injuries. Moreover, when it’s time to claim damages, your compensation could be reduced.
According to California Vehicle Code § 27315 VC, everyone 16 years of age or older is required to wear a seat belt when operating a vehicle or traveling as a passenger. Failure to do so is an infraction punishable by a fine.
Since it’s your legal duty to wear a seatbelt when riding a car, you could be held partially responsible for your injuries.
Typically, the at-fault parties will try to argue that your failure to use a seatbelt was the sole cause of your injuries. They might also claim that your injuries would have been less severe if you were wearing one. If they successfully argue their case, you will share liability, and your claim will be reduced accordingly.
Even so, you may still be eligible to claim damages if the accident occurred due to someone else’s negligence. If insurance companies are trying to push all the blame onto you, contact our Carlsbad lawyers for Lyft accident cases. We’ll review your claim and protect your right to fair compensation.
Can I Get Compensation If I Was Partially Responsible For The Lyft Accident?
Even if you share some of the blame for the accident, you may still be able to collect damages under the pure comparative negligence statute. In California, you are eligible to receive compensation even if you are up to 99% at fault. However, the percentage of your liability will directly reduce your compensation. For instance, you would only get 40% of your total damages if you were 60% at fault.
This legal concept also holds all parties partially responsible for the accident. The court would split liability between all parties involved according to their level of negligence. As such, they would try to minimize their faults as much as possible.
This is why you need our competent Lyft accident attorneys. We will build a compelling case that proves the negligence of other parties. Even if you are partially responsible, we will pursue the highest compensation you deserve.
If you want to know more about how comparative negligence relates to your case, call our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers now.
How Much Is My Lyft Accident Worth?
The compensation you may receive from a Lyft accident depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries. You will likely get a higher payout if your injuries are more severe, like irreversible conditions with a detrimental impact on your quality of life. Some other factors that could affect your compensation are:
- Your share of liability
- The extent of property damage
- Insurance policy limits
To get an idea of how much you could be entitled to, speak with our Carlsbad lawyers specializing in Lyft accident cases today.
Call The Lyft Accident Lawyers Carlsbad Looks To For Expertise!
If you’re thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer for my Lyft accident,” you don’t have to search further. Our Carlsbad Lyft accident lawyers will be your reliable ally against insurance companies and other parties that want to take advantage of you. Our attorneys specialize in various personal injury cases, including car accidents, rideshare collisions, truck accidents, and more.
If you or a loved one is injured in a Lyft accident, you may be eligible to file a claim. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation with the best personal injury lawyers in Carlsbad.
Our Lyft accident lawyers also offer legal services in Carlsbad’s neighboring locations, including Dana Point, Oceanside, Vista, Encinitas, San Marcos, Solana Beach, Escondido, Fallbrook, Poway, San Clemente, Temecula, Murrieta, Ramona, and Wildomar.
