Humboldt County Lyft Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Humboldt County Lyft Accident Lawyers Are Dedicated To Making You Stronger
A Lyft accident can shatter a victim’s life, leaving them grappling with physical injuries, emotional scars, and overwhelming uncertainty about the future. If you or a loved one have been harmed in an accident involving the rideshare service, contact our Humboldt County Lyft accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391. We’re here to fight for your rights and get you the money you rightfully deserve so you can start over.
Humboldt County is home to a college town and university, making Lyft a useful transportation option in the area. In 2022, a partnership was formed between the Humboldt County Aviation Department and Lyft to provide rideshare services for travelers to and from the California Redwood Coast Humboldt County Airport (ACV).
Given the increasing reliance on Lyft for transportation within Humboldt County, especially with its connection to the local airport, it’s crucial to address the potential for Lyft-related accidents and the options available for those affected.
Whether you’re an injured third-party driver, passenger, or pedestrian, you may be eligible for damages. To make sure you get the reparation you deserve, our skilled lawyers at Arash Law will assess your case. Contact our firm today to start your journey towards justice.
How Our Humboldt County Lyft Accident Lawyers Can Help You
When facing a Lyft accident claim, our attorneys can be of great assistance. Here’s how our Humboldt County injury law firm can help accident victims:
- Determine Liability — We will conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine who is at fault. We will also look into all the possible causes of the accident.
- Calculate Damages — Our lawyers will precisely evaluate your lost income, property damage, medical costs, and other losses. We’ll ensure you receive compensation that accurately reflects the full extent of your damages.
- Handle All The Legal Legwork — Our attorneys will take care of the legal process, including filing the necessary paperwork and meeting all deadlines. This way, you can concentrate on getting better.
- Negotiate With Insurers — Our firm will communicate and negotiate aggressively with insurance companies. We won’t let them take advantage of you or pressure you into accepting anything less than you deserve.
- Represent In Court — In the event that the other party downplays or denies liability, we are ready to fight for the money you are due in court.
We make every effort to ensure our clients’ best interests are fully safeguarded. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, we have the know-how to foresee and counter any tactics that insurance companies might employ to reduce settlements. Our Humboldt County Lyft accident lawyers will work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for you.
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
Typical Causes Of Lyft Accidents
In 2023, Lyft provided 709 million rides, greatly expanding the number of vehicles on the road. As the number of drivers and passengers using ridesharing services increases, so does the likelihood of a Lyft accident. Here are a few common causes:
- Unfamiliar Routes — When Lyft drivers use their phones to navigate new places, they may make mistakes that result in missed exits or incorrect turns. These errors may cause some drivers to become agitated or reckless, which can lead to collisions that endanger passenger safety.
- Distracted Driving — When searching for customers, Lyft drivers may become distracted, particularly in congested or dimly lit places. Talking to passengers can also divert their attention from driving.
- Fatigued Driving — Many Lyft drivers work long hours or have other jobs, which might result in fatigued or drowsy driving. This leads to slower reaction times, which increases the risk of serious crashes.
- Pulling Over In Unsafe Areas — When Lyft drivers stop in unsafe or undesignated areas to pick up or drop off passengers quickly, they put themselves and other road users at risk.
- Dangerous Road Conditions — Potholes, missing guardrails, broken traffic lights, and rainy winter can make it difficult for drivers to operate safely on the road. These hazards can lead to sudden stops, swerving, or collisions.
- Poorly Maintained Vehicles — Serious crashes can result from failed brakes and malfunctioning engines. Even though Lyft mandates that its drivers perform routine maintenance work on their vehicles, not all drivers adhere to this requirement. Their negligence can lead to safety and performance issues on the road.
Our Humboldt County Lyft accident attorneys will gather witness statements and consult reconstruction experts to determine liability. You can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your claim.
Injuries Sustained In Lyft Accidents
Depending on the severity of the Lyft accident, victims may experience the following injuries:
- Bruises And Lacerations — These injuries can result in excessive bleeding and infections, which can affect the victims’ everyday activities and general quality of life.
- Strains And Sprains — Although tendon strains and ligament sprains may mend with time, severe cases may necessitate surgery, which can impact mobility and capacity to carry out daily chores.
- Broken Bone Injuries — Fractured ribs, arms, or legs can cause long-term pain, decreased mobility, and a protracted recuperation period that disrupts the victim’s life.
- Internal Bleeding — Life-threatening internal bleeding or severe organ damage may require immediate medical attention, which could have long-term health consequences.
- Head And Brain Injuries — Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and skull fractures can create long-lasting neurological impairments, requiring extensive medical treatment.
- Back And Spinal Cord Injuries — These injuries can cause paralysis or limited movement, which can significantly alter the victim’s lifestyle.
- Burns — Serious burns from fires, hot liquids, or chemicals can have a substantial impact on the victim’s appearance, everyday activities, and emotional health.
Understanding the nature and extent of your injuries is crucial in determining the appropriate compensation after a Lyft accident. Our adept lawyers in Humboldt County not only ensure you gain access to premier medical specialists for a thorough evaluation but also dedicate themselves to meticulously assessing your losses. This comprehensive approach allows us to effectively advocate for the full compensation you deserve, enabling you to concentrate on your recovery without the burden of financial stress.
Liable Parties In A Lyft Accident Case
Compared to other car accidents, Lyft collisions are far more complex. They can potentially involve multiple parties, including:
- The Lyft Driver — The driver may be at fault if they acted negligently or recklessly while driving.
- Lyft, Inc. — If the company fails to screen its drivers properly or fails to conduct periodic reviews to maintain safety standards, it may be held accountable.
- A Third-Party Driver — Another driver may be responsible if their reckless behavior resulted in the collision.
- The Auto Parts Manufacturer Or Installer — They may be liable if a defective or badly installed part caused the accident.
- Government Entities — If your injury resulted from an accident that was caused by poor road conditions, which the government failed to address, they may have liability.
It can be difficult to determine who is responsible for your Lyft accident, but our skilled attorneys in Humboldt County are here to assist. To make sure you get the money you are due, we will look into your case in great detail, obtain proof, and identify all the parties who might be at fault.
How Negligence Is Proven
To hold a Lyft driver liable for a crash, you must demonstrate that they acted negligently and that their negligence caused the accident. The four elements that must be established are as follows:
- Duty of Care — Under California law, Lyft drivers are required to adhere to the highest standard of care to ensure the safety of their passengers and to exercise a level of care that a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances, aimed at protecting other road users as well.
- Breach of Duty — If a Lyft driver fails to meet this high standard of care — for instance, by engaging in reckless driving behaviors such as speeding — they have breached their duty of care. This breach is a critical component in establishing negligence.
- Causation — It’s essential to clearly establish a direct link between the Lyft driver’s breach of duty and the accident, including how this negligence was the proximate cause of your injuries. This connection is vital to proving the driver’s liability.
- Damages — Demonstrating that you have suffered actual losses as a direct result of the accident is crucial. This includes quantifiable damages such as lost wages, medical bills, and rehabilitation costs, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
If there are other potentially responsible parties for the accident, we’ll establish their negligence through investigation as well. Our team of skilled Lyft accident attorneys in Humboldt County is dedicated to gathering the necessary evidence and building a strong case to ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. We are committed to protecting your rights and interests with the utmost diligence and determination.
Lyft’s Insurance Coverage
Lyft offers insurance coverage, but it is complicated and varies depending on the specifics of each case. Our Lyft accident lawyers in Humboldt County are committed to holding all liable parties accountable for the incident. This involves managing the hurdles introduced by Proposition 22, which classifies the company’s drivers as independent contractors rather than employees.
Regardless of these complexities, we make sure that injured victims get the compensation they are entitled to. As one of the best personal injury law firms in California, we will aggressively seek restitution on your behalf, ensuring your rights are upheld.
Here are the different policies based on the driver’s status on the Lyft app at the time of the accident:
- Period 0 – App Is Off — The driver’s auto insurance will cover accident-related expenses if an accident occurs during this period.
- Period 1 – App Is On, No Ride Request — If the driver’s motor insurance is insufficient during this time, Lyft covers the costs. Normal insurance coverage includes up to $50,000 for bodily injuries per person, $100,000 for bodily injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Period 2 – Ride Accepted, En Route To Pick Up — Lyft offers $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage and coverage for accidents involving uninsured or underinsured motorists. It also provides contingent comprehensive and collision coverage up to the vehicle’s real cash value, with a $2,500 deductible.
- Period 3 – Passenger In The Vehicle — Coverage is identical to that of Period 2.
Available Damages In A Lyft Accident Claim
If you were hurt in a Lyft accident, you might be eligible for damages. Economic damages are simpler to compute since they include actual monetary losses brought on by the accident. You can add up all related expenses to determine the total amount. Conversely, non-economic damages tend to be more subjective. They make up for the psychological and emotional effects of your injury.
Here are some examples of compensatory damages that victims can obtain:
- Medical expenses
- Damage to property
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Physical impairment
- Permanent disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Accident victims may be awarded punitive damages if a judge determines that the defendant’s acts were intentional or grossly negligent. These damages punish the offender and discourage future instances of the same kind of action.
Our skilled Lyft accident attorneys in Humboldt County can help you understand the full scope of your potential compensation. To begin your journey toward the financial recovery you deserve, fill out our “Do I Have A Case” form today.
Understanding Partial Fault And How It Works
Under California’s rules on comparative negligence, a victim’s partial fault may have an impact on the amount of remuneration they are entitled to in an accident. If you contributed to the accident, your compensation may be lowered in proportion to your degree of fault. For instance, if you were found 18% at fault, the highest compensation you could get would be 82%.
If the defendant’s party argues that you were partially at fault, let the best Humboldt County Lyft accident lawyers handle the legwork for you. We’ll help protect your rights and maximize the compensation you get, even if you may be partially to blame. Do not hesitate to contact us for advice if you are worried about how comparative negligence can impact your case.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident
If you’re an injured victim in a Lyft accident, you must take certain steps to safeguard your health and legal rights. Here’s what you need to do:
- Stay calm and assess yourself for injuries. Call 911 for emergency assistance. The dispatcher will then send emergency medical services and the police.
- Once the police arrive, share the facts of the accident and request the officer’s name, badge number, and the incident report number for your records.
- If you can, take photos of the accident scene, including your injuries. These images will serve as valuable evidence.
- Ask for the insurance and license details of your Lyft driver and any other drivers involved. Also, collect the contact information of any witnesses, as their statements can be crucial in supporting your case later on.
- Seek medical attention, even if your wounds appear to be minor. A medical exam can help identify any hidden injuries. Prompt care not only protects your health but also strengthens your claim. Your medical records can provide tangible evidence of your injuries and a direct link to the accident.
- Contact Arash Law. Our Lyft accident lawyers in Humboldt County will be your ally every step of the way, fighting to secure the reparation you are owed while you focus on your recovery.
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
Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Lyft Accident Claim
If you were harmed in a Lyft accident in California and want to file a claim, you have two years from the date of the incident. This is called the statute of limitations. To protect your right to recovery, you need to act promptly. If you don’t meet this deadline, you might not be able to get the money you are due.
However, there are certain exceptions. Following the “discovery rule,” if the injury wasn’t discovered right away, the time limit only begins from the moment it is identified. Talk to our Humboldt County personal injury lawyers who handle Lyft accident cases. We can guide you through the legal process and ensure that no deadlines are missed.
Lyft Accident Statistics
According to research done by the Becker Friedman Institute, “The Cost of Convenience: Ridesharing and Traffic Fatalities,” the emergence of ridesharing services like Lyft led to a 3% increase in traffic accidents. Due to the rise of rideshare vehicles, there are roughly 987 more fatal crashes in the United States each year.
Lyft’s Safety Transparency Report states that 111 motor vehicle deaths occurred between 2020 and 2022. Compared to earlier figures, this represented a 31% rise in occurrences and a 14% increase in fatalities per 100 million miles traveled.
If you have been in a ridesharing collision and want to find out if you have a case, call our Humboldt County Lyft and Uber accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391. We will answer all of your questions and give you a free, comprehensive case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lyft Require Safety Training For Drivers?
Lyft does require drivers to complete a mandatory safety program before they can start driving. This program, developed in partnership with RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), helps drivers handle difficult passenger situations and ensures a safer ride for everyone. Completing this training is necessary to start transporting passengers.
However, while Lyft does require this basic safety program, there is no extensive driver training. This lack of comprehensive driving training can be problematic. Inexperienced drivers may struggle to handle difficult road conditions or hazards, which could increase the risk of accidents. If you’re injured in one, call our Humboldt County Lyft accident attorneys.
What’s The Requirement To Drive For Lyft?
Lyft has several criteria that drivers and their vehicles must meet. Drivers will not be permitted to use Lyft’s platform if they or their vehicles don’t fulfill these standards.
Driver Requirements
For them to drive with Lyft, they must:
- Possess a valid California driver’s license.
- Be 25 years of age or older.
- Finish the driver screening process, which entails a criminal background check and a driving history check.
- Have a smartphone that can download and operate the Lyft Driver app.
- Finish a course on community safety education.
- Have an auto insurance that fulfills the state’s minimum requirements.
Vehicle Requirements
Vehicles must meet the following requirements:
- 2008 or newer with four doors.
- Seats five to eight, including the driver’s.
- Not a stretch limo, taxi, or rental car that isn’t Express Drive.
- Not designated as rebuilt, salvage, non-repairable, or any similar classification.
- Has a California license plate.
These standards are in place to ensure passenger safety and protect against liability. Nevertheless, accidents still happen, even though all drivers are required to complete a community safety course. Our Humboldt County lawyers can assist Lyft accident victims in recovering the damages they are entitled to in the event of a ridesharing accident.
How Can I Hold Someone Responsible For A Lyft Accident?
You can file a personal injury claim to hold someone responsible for a Lyft accident. To know more, get in touch with our experienced Lyft accident lawyers in Humboldt County. Our firm can guide you through the process, explain your options, and help you win your case.
How Much Is My Lyft Accident Claim Worth?
The value of a Lyft accident claim varies depending on your medical expenditures, property damage, lost wages, and future earnings. You may also be eligible for compensation for pain and suffering. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Humboldt County will obtain all supporting documentation to calculate the value of your claim.
How Long Will It Take To Receive My Lyft Accident Settlement?
It usually takes a few months to years to get your damages, depending on the details of your case. Many Lyft accident claims are settled through private negotiations. However, complex cases may take longer to settle, especially if litigation becomes necessary. Our Humboldt County lawyers handling Lyft accident cases can help you navigate the whole process and pursue the highest possible payout.
Are You Required To Have A Lawyer To File A Lyft Accident Claim?
No, you can file a Lyft accident claim without a lawyer, but having one can significantly increase your chances of receiving the best result. Our Humboldt County Lyft accident attorneys can handle all the legal legwork so you can focus on getting better. We will make sure that the opposing attorneys or insurance companies don’t take advantage of you.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Lyft Accident Lawyer?
Since our Humboldt County lawyers take Lyft accident cases on a contingency fee basis, there is no upfront cost. The fee is a portion of the settlement or award, and you only pay if we prevail in your case. This way, you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket.
Call The Lyft Accident Lawyers Humboldt County Trusts
Lyft accidents are serious incidents that can turn your life upside down. If you or a loved one has been hurt — or if a family member was tragically killed — reach out to Arash Law right away. These events can have lasting effects on you and your family, and it’s important to get the help you need.
Our Humboldt County Lyft accident lawyers, led by the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., are here to guide you through your legal options and fight relentlessly for the reparation you are owed. With over $500 million recovered in settlements and verdicts, our proven track record speaks for itself, giving you confidence that we can secure the best outcome for your case.
If you think, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” don’t wait — call us now at (888) 488-1391. Our Humboldt County attorneys also handle truck accidents and other personal injury cases.
We offer quality legal representation throughout Humboldt County, including Trinidad McKinleyville, Indianola, Hoopa, Garberville, Fortuna, Eureka, Blue Lake, Bayside, and Arcata. We also represent victims from neighboring counties, such as Del Norte, Siskiyou, Trinity, and Mendocino.
