Fresno Lyft Accident Lawyers
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Experienced Fresno Lyft Accident Lawyers Will Help You Receive The Maximum Compensation For Your Injury
Rideshare services like Lyft present a convenient alternative to public transportation. These companies have asserted that their services enhance street safety by reducing the presence of potential drunk drivers. Despite these claims, it’s essential to recognize that rideshare drivers are still prone to causing car accidents, similar to the general population. The Fresno Lyft accident lawyers at Arash Law are experts at dealing with the complicated and evolving laws related to rideshare accidents. Call (888) 488-1391 immediately to schedule a free consultation with our legal team if you suffer injuries in an accident involving Lyft.
Depending on various factors, such as the nature of the accident and whether you sustained injuries or experienced the loss of a loved one, you may be eligible for compensation after a Lyft accident. This compensation could come from the insurance of the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, a third party, or a combination of these sources.
You likely have numerous inquiries regarding your legal rights after a collision involving Lyft or another rideshare vehicle. To gain a deeper understanding, contact our team today for a free initial consultation with no obligation. If you choose to engage our services at Arash Law, you won’t incur attorneys’ fees unless we successfully secure compensation since we operate on a contingency fee basis. Contact us or complete our online form to start your legal process.
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
Why Engage The Services Of Lyft Accident Lawyers In Fresno, CA?
Accidents involving Lyft can lead to challenges in assigning responsibility. Despite Lyft maintaining $1 million in liability coverage for car crashes, it is not uncommon for rideshare companies to disclaim liability for damages. Lyft drivers must be aware that while the company coverage includes liability, it may not cover the total costs of vehicle damage or medical expenses if they are found at fault for the accident.
Passengers may encounter difficulties reporting losses to Lyft and face resistance from other drivers and their insurers to accept responsibility for accidents. Responsibility may be shifted to other drivers or even to the passengers themselves. Retaining the services of Lyft accident lawyers in Fresno becomes vital to hold the responsible parties accountable for your financial losses.
Car accidents result in millions of injuries annually. To ensure that negligent parties bear their fair share of responsibility, consult Fresno’s experienced Lyft accident attorneys promptly. Given the evolving rules and regulations of ridesharing that are influenced by technology, proficient personal injury attorneys can ensure you comprehend and safeguard your legal rights before taking further action.
Why Opt For Arash Law’s Accident Lawyers In Fresno To Manage Your Lyft Accident Lawsuit?
Not all law firms are created equal, and it’s imperative that the lawyer you select maintain an active litigation practice. If the chosen attorney does not consistently initiate lawsuits to hold insurance carriers accountable, your representation might not fully maximize the financial recovery in your Lyft accident case. At Arash Law, our Fresno Lyft accident attorneys serve a variety of clients who have suffered severe injuries from car collisions.
While past outcomes do not guarantee future results, our attorneys have effectively handled numerous challenging cases involving severe injuries and tricky liability issues. Many of our clients have faced catastrophic injuries, and we comprehend the challenges that arise when dealing with rideshare vehicles.
You can rely on the Fresno Lyft accident attorneys at Arash Law to assist you in obtaining medical treatment, handling communication with the insurance company, analyzing evidence related to the car crash, and ensuring that your associated medical bills are incorporated into any claim resolution. Our commitment is to prevent clients from being burdened with outstanding medical bills post-case resolution.
Recognizing the inherent unfairness in the design of insurance carriers, we believe the most effective way to hold them accountable is through aggressive advocacy on your behalf. When determining the value of your damages, we consider factors ranging from the permanent restrictions imposed by your injuries to the impact on your overall quality of life. Hospital bills alone often fail to capture the full extent of your losses. With the financial resources and extensive experience at Arash Law, we are well-equipped to confront any insurance carrier.
Illustrating our prowess, we have consistently obtained maximum compensation for Lyft accidents involving serious injuries. For instance, our firm has successfully secured a $1,100,000 recovery in a rideshare accident case involving a passenger of a well-known ridesharing app. Despite the seemingly minor impact and vehicle damage, extensive litigation lasting over two years was required. The defendants ultimately chose to resolve the matter before trial. Notably, our client had a rare medical condition requiring extensive knowledge of both medicine and law.
How Can Our Lawyers At Arash Law Help With A Fresno Lyft Accident?
Arash Law, a reputable law firm in Fresno, is well-equipped to address a range of complex issues and unique challenges associated with Lyft accidents that are not encountered in other types of incidents. Arash Law is adept at handling these obstacles from the moment you request a Lyft ride through the app to the occurrence of the accident.
Fault Determination
Determining the cause of a Lyft collision can be challenging, especially when multiple parties are involved. Your legal counsel will carefully analyze traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to establish fault in your collision.
Dealing With Insurance Policies
After a collision with a Lyft driver, various insurance policies from different companies may come into play. Multiple insurance plans may cover your Lyft accident, each with its priority order. Our Fresno Lyft accident lawyers can assist in pursuing your legal claim and identify which policy should provide the initial compensation.
Fair Settlement Negotiation
Negotiating for a settlement is common after Lyft accidents, especially when the fault is clear. Even in disputed liability cases, settlements are a standard resolution. While settlements are typical, securing a fair offer from the insurance company requires strategic efforts. Before ensuring you receive the just compensation you deserve, your attorney will address any tactics the opposing party employs to delay or reduce your payment.
Litigation Preparation
In some cases, filing a lawsuit may be necessary, particularly if your case is not settled. Litigation handled independently poses risks to your case, especially if it goes to trial. Your Fresno Lyft accident lawyers will ensure you avoid potential pitfalls in the legal process and provide you with the best chance of success if the case goes to trial.
Does Lyft Offer Insurance Coverage For Accidents Caused By Its Drivers?
Lyft provides insurance coverage for collisions and accidents caused by its drivers. However, this coverage becomes applicable only when the at-fault driver’s personal insurance policy has been exhausted. The specifics of the accident play a crucial role in determining the type and amount of coverage available to injured victims. It’s important to acknowledge that Lyft categorizes its drivers not as “employees” but as “independent contractors.” This distinction grants them significant legal leeway to disclaim liability after an accident and dispute claims.
In the event of an accident involving a Lyft driver, potential compensation may include:
- Up to $50,000 in bodily injury per person and up to $100,000 in bodily injury per accident when the driver has the app turned on but hasn’t accepted a ride.
- Up to $30,000 in property damage per accident when the driver has the app turned on but hasn’t accepted a ride.
- Up to $1 million in bodily injury, death, and property damage when the driver has the app turned on and has accepted a ride, regardless of whether a passenger is present.
It’s important to note that when Lyft drivers don’t have the app turned on, the rideshare company’s insurance does not cover them. If you were involved in an accident with a rideshare driver not actively working for the company, you can pursue compensation by filing a claim against the driver’s private auto insurance provider. Discuss your legal options with our Fresno Lyft accident attorneys today.
Who Is Liable For Damages In A Rideshare Accident In Fresno, CA?
Holding Lyft accountable for your accident by naming them a defendant may pose challenges. Lyft and Uber have undertaken extensive legal efforts to establish their drivers, who use the apps and receive payment for passenger pickups, as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification shields employers from liability for accidents caused by the independent contractors they compensate.
In most cases, employers are not held responsible for accidents caused by those they pay as independent contractors, enabling Lyft to evade liability. Their insurance coverage often has strict restrictions, making it challenging to pursue legal action for damages beyond the provided coverage. As your Lyft accident attorneys in Fresno, we are here to assist you in advocating for the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Suing The Rideshare Driver In Fresno, CA
As a Lyft rideshare passenger involved in an accident in Fresno, you should retain the right to seek legal recourse against your driver. However, pursuing legal action against Lyft may need guidance. Regrettably, agreeing to a rideshare company’s terms of service implies consent to a “mandatory arbitration agreement,” potentially waiving your right to a jury trial.
Essentially, you will find yourself participating in a binding dispute resolution process known as arbitration to address your claims. Nevertheless, certain exceptions exist to the arbitration clause, such as instances of sexual assault by a rideshare driver, allowing you to file a lawsuit.
Notably, the arbitration clause doesn’t extend to injured third parties. If you were an occupant of another vehicle and suffered injuries due to the negligence of a rideshare driver, you maintain the right to sue the company and seek damages. Since you haven’t entered into any contract with the company, you can pursue legal action to secure the compensation you deserve.
How Do Rideshare Accidents Happen?
A rideshare accident is essentially a typical car collision with the added factor of someone functioning as a rideshare driver during the incident. Acts of negligence, such as drunk driving or speeding, can lead to rideshare accidents. Lyft drivers actively work while driving and rely on an app to pick up new fares. Integrating an app inside the car during driving can increase the risk of a collision due to driver distraction, surpassing that of an average vehicle. Rideshare drivers may also face heightened risks of distraction from conversing with passengers.
Common Causes Of Lyft Rideshare Car Accidents
Like any other driver, a Lyft driver can be involved in a car accident if their attention is diverted from the road ahead or their judgment is compromised. Common causes of Lyft rideshare accidents include:
- Drowsy Driving – Operating a vehicle while fatigued or excessively sleepy can impair reaction times, decision-making, and overall driving ability.
- Drunk Driving – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs compromises coordination, judgment, and the ability to operate a vehicle safely.
- Distracted Driving – Engaging in activities that divert attention from driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car entertainment systems.
- Road Rage – Aggressive or violent behavior exhibited by a driver in response to road-related stressors potentially leads to dangerous driving actions and confrontations.
- Disregard For Traffic Laws Or Carelessness – Ignoring or not adhering to traffic regulations or displaying a lack of attention and consideration for the safety of oneself and others on the road.
The potential for additional stress while driving sets Lyft drivers apart from most other drivers. Lyft drivers know that their livelihoods depend on tips and evaluations of their driving performance, creating pressure to entertain passengers that may be distracting.
Additionally, they might take risks to expedite their arrival at the destination in pursuit of a five-star rating. Lyft drivers also have to contend with potentially unruly or even dangerous passengers. These circumstances may lead Lyft drivers to engage in risky behaviors, such as speeding, which can result in motor vehicle collisions.
However, not all Lyft accidents result from the driver’s actions. Other parties, such as another motorist, hazardous road conditions, or a faulty vehicle component, can contribute to accidents. In some instances, drivers may neglect proper vehicle maintenance according to Lyft standards, leading to potential hazards like tire blowouts during trips.
In the face of these increasing incidents, Arash Law’s Lyft accident lawyers stand ready to assist, taking advantage of their experience to guide clients through the complexities of such cases and advocate for the rights of those affected.
Common Types Of Injuries Sustained In Lyft Accidents
After a collision involving Lyft, the following injuries are commonly observed:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries – Lyft accidents often result in traumatic brain injuries, particularly when the victim is not wearing a helmet. This type of injury can significantly impact various aspects of a person’s life, including focus, memory (short- or long-term), and emotional control.
- Nervous System Concussions – The intricate network of neurons along the spinal column connecting the brain to the body can lead to a substantial loss of movement patterns and control and even total paralysis if the spinal column is completely severed.
- Cervical And Spinal Injuries – Victims may experience migraines, dislocations, musculoskeletal problems, and nerve loss due to accidents resulting in cervical and spinal injuries.
- Mutilation – Limb loss can be a consequence of Lyft accidents, with crushed limbs requiring amputation or, in some cases, deterioration leading to patellofemoral surgery.
- Fractured Bones – Whether Lyft collides with the pavement or another vehicle, fractures are common outcomes. Some fractures may heal independently, while others may require surgery or intensive physical treatment, impacting daily activities and prolonging recovery.
- Road Rash – Skin abrasions caused by friction against asphalt, known as road rash, can result from Lyft accidents. Proper protective clothing can prevent road rash, and severe cases may require skin grafting for recovery.
Beyond the physical pain, victims of Lyft accidents also grapple with the financial and practical consequences of their injuries. It is common for injured individuals to explore whether another party can be held responsible for the accident. With Arash Law by your side, our Fresno Lyft accident attorneys will be responsible for the negotiations.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident
Taking precise steps following an accident is essential to secure your well-being and rights to compensation. Key actions to consider after a Lyft accident include:
- Gather comprehensive information from your rideshare driver, including their driver’s license and details from their rideshare app profile.
- Interview eyewitnesses, such as individuals in other vehicles or pedestrians, to uncover any information that might strengthen your case.
- Immediately report the accident to the rideshare company using their app or by calling, explicitly mentioning that you have sustained significant injuries.
- Seek medical attention on the same day as the accident, even if you feel uninjured, to establish a clear link between your injuries and the collision in your medical records.
- Engage the services of Lyft accident attorneys in Fresno, who can guide you on initiating a claim and determining potential defendants in your case.
What Is The Time Limit For Filing Fresno Lyft Accident Claims?
No guarantees exist for a favorable outcome, making it imperative for individuals injured in Fresno to select specialized Lyft accident lawyers with proven track records in such cases. It offers clients the assurance of legal representation experienced in achieving positive results.
The duration of a case leading to successful resolutions varies based on the circumstances. Some Fresno Lyft accident lawsuits may conclude swiftly, while others may extend for a year or more, especially if litigation becomes necessary.
Factors influencing the case’s length include the number of parties involved, the extent of disagreement on liability or damages, and the approaches of the accident lawyers, insurance companies, and parties involved. In addition, survivors and their families can choose when to discuss their case with Lyft accident lawyers in Fresno. Prompt action is advised to initiate a potential beneficial settlement.
Per California Law, a personal injury lawsuit for damages must be filed within two (2) years from the day the victim was injured. However, this period may be shortened or extended depending on the accident’s circumstances, such as the victim’s age or if the lawsuit involves a governmental institution. Failure to file a claim within the designated time frame may result in losing fundamental rights to reimbursement.
April 2019: $14M settlement in a traumatic brain injury case involving a defective piece of equipment at a factory.– BRIAN BEECHER
Lyft Accident Settlements In Fresno
Resolving rideshare accident cases through settlements is a good option. Our Fresno-based Lyft accident attorneys have experience negotiating with rideshare companies, including Lyft and Uber, and can adeptly pursue a fair settlement on your behalf. Having handled various client cases involving ridesharing companies, we understand the dynamics of these situations.
Settlements offer advantages by closing cases swiftly, enabling you to access the necessary funds for recovery without prolonged delays. However, if the proposed settlement is inadequate, we can explore pursuing your case through the legal system.
Lyft Accident Statistics In Fresno
Lyft accidents occur more frequently than passengers may be aware. Similar to all operators of vehicles, Lyft drivers can make errors that lead to severe collisions, such as driving under the influence, operating while fatigued, texting while driving, or violating traffic regulations.
While Lyft emphasizes the quality and safety of its services, data from the Transportation Network Company Division of the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) reveals real risks associated with using ridesharing platforms. Undoubtedly, ridesharing plays a pivotal role in reducing incidents of drunk and reckless driving, with 43% of users relying on Lyft and Uber for transportation to dinners or events, resulting in a noteworthy 15% to 62% reduction in drunk driving accidents.
However, the surge in rideshare trips corresponds with an increase in accidents. Statistics indicate ridesharing services are linked to one in four accidents in medium and large U.S. cities. Approximately 25% of the country’s population utilizes Lyft at least once monthly. The substantial growth in recent years is evident in the percentage of vehicle miles traveled (VMT). In 2016, ridesharing vehicles represented just 1% of VMT in the country. Presently, VMT from Lyft and Uber cars surpasses 14% in numerous states, with a national average of 6%.
The University of Chicago Booth School of Business has validated the theory concerning the increased incidents and fatalities on the road. In particular, the introduction of Lyft and Uber has contributed to a 3% surge in overall car accident fatalities. This implies that, due to the widespread use of ridesharing services, approximately 1,000 people are killed in car accidents each day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is covered in the event of an accident with Lyft?
Lyft covers all parties involved in an accident, including passengers, motorists, occupants in other vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and more. This coverage also includes rideshare drivers under specific conditions. In the event of an injury, a rideshare driver must initiate a claim with their insurance provider. If the driver lacks a rideshare endorsement on their policy, the claim will be rejected due to the commercial operation of the vehicle during the accident, rendering their coverage void. Subsequently, Lyft’s coverage generally comes into effect after denying the driver’s claim.
Is it a requirement that the victim attend the whole process in court to testify?
Due to the unpredictability of the claims and lawsuits process, it is essential to collaborate with seasoned Fresno Lyft accident lawyers possessing the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to prevail in any scenario, whether within or outside a courtroom.
California law says settlements for Lyft accident lawsuits typically occur outside court. In essence, this is the standard procedure. A settlement often involves the paying party being released from liability in exchange for the victim receiving compensation, effectively concluding the case.
Not all typical car accident claims reach a settlement, however, so predicting which ones will succeed in Fresno’s superior trial courts can be challenging. To safeguard their interests, victims can benefit from retaining Lyft accident lawyers in Fresno with a proven track record in court success, who are also prepared to forego alternative dispute resolution sessions if required to secure a comprehensive and equitable settlement for an injured client.
What happens if I am unsure whether a Lyft accident was my fault?
In the aftermath of a sudden Lyft accident, determining fault may become a pressing concern. It is necessary to approach this situation by refraining from admitting fault or apologizing, as such actions might be misconstrued as an admission of guilt. Instead, you can avail yourself of the services of our Fresno Lyft accident lawyers to establish liability. During the free consultation, your attorneys will thoroughly investigate the matter to determine if any party should be held accountable for your injuries.
Immediately following a Lyft accident, it’s common to experience conflicting emotions such as fear, anger, or distress. It is vital to take a moment to collect yourself before seeking medical assistance. Allow the responding Fresno police and your legal counsel to manage the accident investigation on your behalf.
Contact The Award-Winning Lyft Accident Lawyers Fresno Trusts For A Free Consultation Today
If you’re the victim of an accident with a Lyft vehicle in Fresno or the surrounding areas, including Clovis, Sanger, Selma, Kerman, Parlier, Kingsburg, Reedley, Madera, Dinuba, Orange Cove, Hanford, Lemoore, Mendota, Chowchilla, and Visalia, consult with Fresno Lyft accident attorneys experienced in handling such cases immediately.
While the process may share similarities with typical car accident claims, Lyft accident cases involve specific statutes and legal requirements. Securing compensation after a rideshare accident can be difficult, and having a lawyer familiar with the process and relevant legal precedents can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
At Arash Law, we are well-equipped to navigate you through this process. Our Fresno Lyft accident attorneys have successfully managed numerous rideshare claims for injured victims, demonstrating a thorough understanding of pursuing the maximum compensation available. With a track record of recovering $500 Million for our clients, our firm is prepared to advocate for your rights without delay.
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