Kern County Lyft Accident Lawyers
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Dedicated Legal Assistance From Our Kern County Lyft Accident Lawyers
Since its launch in 2012, Lyft has become an instant hit, with many people relying on the service as a primary means of transportation. However, no mode of transportation is entirely without risk. If you sustain injuries in a Lyft accident, you can seek compensation for your losses. Our Kern County Lyft accident lawyers can help you pursue a claim against the negligent parties. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Kern County is located in the southern Central Valley of California. It takes pride in its diverse economy, fueled by various industries. The County also has a significant aerospace and military presence. Over the years, it has become one of the Golden State’s producers of petroleum-based energy and agricultural products. This progress led to a spike in employment generation.
For some residents without cars or who choose not to drive, Lyft offers a convenient and reliable way to get around. Unfortunately, Lyft accidents still happen, resulting in injuries or, worse, deaths. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Kern County are experienced in representing injured victims and identifying potentially liable parties.
What Is A Lyft Accident?
A Lyft accident refers to any collision or incident involving Lyft. Rideshare services, like Lyft and Uber, serve as an alternative to taxis but operate differently from traditional transportation. Their unique operating model can complicate accident claims.
Legally speaking, Lyft crashes are similar to car accidents, except that the former is associated with a giant private company. This key difference means you may need to take legal action against both Lyft and the driver. This is especially true if the rideshare company, for instance, violates safety inspection regulations or fails to employ, train, and retain responsible drivers.
When you ride a Lyft, you anticipate a safe trip. If unfortunate events happen, you can hold the involved parties, including the rideshare company, liable. If they fail to provide you with the compensation that may be available to you, you may have to file a lawsuit. This process can be complex, so it’s wise to seek legal guidance from experienced attorneys.
Contact our lawyers in Kern County if you’re starting a legal battle after a Lyft accident. We will guide you throughout the process and assist you in seeking compensation based on the facts of your case.
Settlement in a motorcycle versus ride share company accident; client suffered spinal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Lyft Laws And Regulations
Several California laws are in place to protect the safety of rideshare service passengers. If you are involved in a Lyft accident, our Kern County attorneys can help you understand these laws and regulations and how they apply to your case:
Lyft Driver Qualifications
Unlike truck or big rig drivers, Lyft drivers don’t need commercial driving licenses. However, they must have valid driving licenses and pass annual criminal background checks. Those found with convictions, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) within the last seven years, are prohibited from accepting rides. For their safety, riders can also request their driver’s name, picture, vehicle make and model, and license plate number.
Vehicle And Insurance Requirements
Rideshare vehicles must undergo smog and climate emission tests and thorough inspections every 12 months or after reaching 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. When logged in on the rideshare app, drivers must also display their Lyft decals on the front and rear passenger-side windshields.
Furthermore, Lyft drivers must maintain the minimum auto insurance policy requirements for bodily injury and property damage. Meanwhile, Lyft must have a certain amount of insurance coverage for accidents after drivers accept ride requests or while actively transporting passengers.
Employment Status
Lyft technically classifies its drivers as independent contractors, which means they don’t get certain benefits offered to employees. Consequently, the rideshare company cannot be held vicariously liable for accidents involving its drivers. Victims must first file claims against the responsible drivers. Lyft may only get involved in specific cases where the responsible parties’ insurance cannot cover the damages.
Why Hire Our Kern County Lyft Accident Lawyers For Your Case
Hiring a Lyft accident lawyer in Kern County can help you pursue compensation. When you choose Arash Law, you can expect the following:
- In-Depth Experience — Our Kern County injury law firm has a team of personal injury lawyers who have handled different accident cases for years. With this experience, we can handle the legal aspects of your Lyft accident claim.
- Client-Centered Approach — We know that every Lyft accident is unique. Our Lyft accident lawyers take a client-focused approach, providing legal services and strategies tailored to your needs.
- Effective Communication — Our lawyers can keep you updated on the progress of your claim. We will help you make informed decisions as we work toward a fair settlement for your claims.
- Contingency-Based Agreement — We understand the financial burden an injury can cause. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Kern County work on a contingency fee basis. In other words, clients are not required to pay attorney’s fees unless an appropriate compensation for the case is reached. However, certain case-related expenses may still apply.
Types Of Cases Our Lyft Accident Attorneys Handle
Some accidents are simply minor inconveniences, while others can be devastating. The impact can ripple and affect not just the person directly involved but also their loved ones, finances, and even communities. Lyft accidents may also cause such losses.
Our attorneys in Kern County usually handle the following types of Lyft accident cases:
A Lyft Vehicle Collides With Another Motor Vehicle
Lyft accidents not only harm rideshare passengers but also other motorists on the road. Some of the most common types of vehicular collisions include:
- Rear-end collisions
- Intersection accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Sideswipes
- Multi-vehicle pile-ups
You may hold the Lyft driver liable for your damages if you get injured in an accident involving Lyft. You may also initiate a claim against the rideshare company if the liable party’s auto insurance coverage is inadequate. The process can get complicated, but our Kern County lawyers can help you pursue appropriate compensation for your losses.
A Third-Party Motorist Strikes A Lyft Vehicle
Collisions involving Lyft can also occur due to the negligence of other motorists. Even if your rideshare driver takes the utmost care, a reckless motorist could still injure you in case of a collision with the Lyft you’re riding.
Cases such as this should be treated like a typical car accident. You must file a personal injury claim against the negligent party to seek compensation for your damages. If the driver is an underinsured or uninsured motorist (UM/UIM), Lyft’s commercial insurance policy may cover the remaining cost.
A Lyft Driver Hits A Pedestrian Or Bicyclist
Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable due to the lack of protection, unlike those in cars. They tend to suffer severe or fatal injuries when an accident happens in these scenarios:
- The Lyft driver fails to give way to a pedestrian.
- The Lyft driver blocks the path of a bike rider.
- The Lyft driver abruptly opens his car’s door in front of an approaching cyclist.
As a pedestrian or cyclist, you should know you have the right of way. So, if a Lyft vehicle hits you, you may be able to seek damages for your injuries.
A Lyft Driver Harms A Passenger
One of Lyft’s ultimate objectives is to transport its riders comfortably without compromising their safety. However, some Lyft drivers fail to fulfill this duty and instead drive recklessly, causing accidents.
Victims like you can seek compensation from responsible Lyft drivers. However, if their auto insurance can’t cover the damages, you can file a claim against Lyft if applicable.
Hurt in a Lyft Accident?
Most Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents In Kern County
Unfortunately, Lyft drivers don’t undergo special training. While Lyft has baseline requirements, some of its drivers have limited experience, making them prone to committing driving errors.
The following are some common causes of Lyft accidents in Kern County:
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Fatigued driving
- Driving while distracted
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Traffic violations, such as running a red light and ignoring stop signs
- Lack of route familiarity
- Driving on damaged roads
- Driving during inclement weather
Whether a Lyft crash occurs due to negligence or other factors, you can file a claim against the responsible parties. Our Kern County Lyft accident lawyers can assist you with the legal process.
Different Injuries Sustained In A Lyft Accident
Similar to car crashes, an accident involving Lyft may result in the following injuries:
- Head and Brain Injuries — Victims who hit their heads may sustain skull fractures, concussions, or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), often requiring extensive treatment and lifelong care.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Ruptured discs and shattered vertebrae can result from Lyft accidents. High-impact collisions may harm the spinal cord, causing mobility issues or paralysis.
- Internal Injuries — Lyft-related incidents may damage internal organs like the spleen, which may be removed to avoid complications. Meanwhile, internal bleeding can happen, which requires immediate medical attention.
- Burns — Fuel and oil leaks from an accident may start a fire, while hot surfaces, liquids, or chemicals can cause burns. Severe cases may lead to infections and lifelong disfigurement.
- Fractures — The impact of a crash can break bones in the ribs, arms, legs, hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, or ankles. Fractures often need casting or surgery to fully heal.
- Strains and Sprains — An abrupt and forceful motion can jolt a body part and damage the tendons or ligaments. Whiplash, for example, happens due to a sudden back-and-forth neck movement. Minor cases heal over time, but serious ones require surgery.
- Lacerations and Bruises — Metal shards or broken glass from accidents can cause severe cuts and excessive bleeding or infection. Bruises may happen when the victim’s body parts hit solid surfaces.
- Wrongful Deaths — A high-impact Lyft collision may result in the untimely death of a person. Their family members can initiate wrongful death claims to seek compensation from the liable parties.
Consult our Kern County Lyft accident lawyers if you sustain any of these injuries. We can connect you with medical professionals and handle your legal tasks so you can focus on your medical treatment.
Who Is Liable For A Lyft Accident?
Several parties may share liability for a Lyft accident. Our Kern County lawyers can handle Lyft accident claims against:
- Lyft Drivers — Lyft drivers are required to exercise reasonable care for safe trips. If their poor driving practices (e.g., driving while intoxicated, fatigued, or distracted) result in accidents, they can be held accountable for the damages.
- Lyft — Despite the required background checks and screenings for employment, Lyft can still make hiring errors and allow reckless drivers to operate on their platform. In cases where these negligent individuals cause accidents, the rideshare company may face liability.
- Auto Part Manufacturers — Faulty car parts can also lead to Lyft-related accidents. Mechanical failures may serve as legal grounds to consider manufacturers, producers, sellers, and others involved in the distribution process accountable for the resulting damages.
- Third-Party Drivers — Other motorists’ negligence or recklessness is one primary reason behind rideshare collisions. These drivers may be fatigued, speeding, or violating traffic rules, causing them to hit Lyft vehicles.
- Government Agencies — Victims injured after their Lyft drivers unexpectedly drove through deteriorated roads, such as those with potholes and missing guardrails, may file claims against the government offices in charge of keeping them in good condition.
Identifying the potentially liable parties is crucial to determining who is responsible for your damages. Given the complexity of this process, it’s recommended to speak with our Lyft accident attorneys in Kern County. We will assist you in identifying the appropriate auto insurance policy for your claim, especially since some policies don’t apply to vehicles used for business purposes.
Establishing Liability In A Lyft Accident
In Kern County and throughout California, assessing who’s negligent is a crucial step in establishing liability for a Lyft accident. Those found negligent may bear responsibility for the victim’s damages and injuries.
This process isn’t straightforward. To establish liability, you need to prove four crucial elements. For instance, if you believe your Lyft driver is at fault for your injuries, you must demonstrate the following:
- Duty of Care — The driver has a duty of care to you, the passenger. All drivers are expected to exercise reasonable care, which includes paying attention to road conditions, adhering to traffic laws, and watching out for pedestrians.
- Breach of Duty — The driver breached this duty by speeding, driving drunk or high, or engaging in other reckless behavior.
- Causation — The driver’s breach of duty caused the collision.
- Damages — The collision resulted in your injuries and damages.
Speak with our Kern County lawyers with experience in Lyft accident cases to evaluate your claim and collect evidence to demonstrate the responsible parties’ negligence.
How Does Comparative Negligence Affect Your Lyft Accident Case?
Comparative negligence is a legal principle that impacts how much compensation you can pursue after an accident. Courts consider the negligence of all the parties involved, not just the Lyft driver. This means that if you’re found to be partially to blame for the accident, the amount you may be able to seek will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Our Kern County lawyers can handle your Lyft accident claim by working with insurance companies and advocating for your interests. We will aim for a fair assessment of liability if you find yourself in such a situation.
How Does Lyft’s Insurance Policy Work?
The guidelines for compensating damages resulting from Lyft accidents are complex. You must carefully consider specific requirements, including how the rideshare company’s third-party liability insurance works and its scope.
What Damages Can You Pursue In A Lyft Accident?
Lyft crashes can result in severe bodily harm that leaves victims with significant emotional, financial, and physical burdens. If you’re injured in one, you may have the grounds to seek compensation for your economic and non-economic losses.
Our Kern County Lyft accident lawyers can help you pursue compensation for various types of damages. Depending on the specifics of your case, these may include:
- Current and future medical bills
- Surgery
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Lost income
- Loss of potential earnings, especially after death
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Anxiety and depression
- Disabilities and disfigurements
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
To determine the potential value of your damages, consult our Kern County Lyft accident attorneys. We can review your claim and help you in seeking an appropriate settlement for your case.
Our client was a loyal rideshare driver involved in a hit-and-run. The at-fault driver struck our client and fled the scene. After years of litigating in Arbitration for the Underinsured Motorist policy, our co-counselor Kevin Levian set up the case perfectly for an arbitration trial. Ultimately, the case was resolved for the maximum policy limits one week before the arbitration.– BRIAN BEECHER
What Should I Do After A Lyft Accident?
After getting into a Lyft crash, it’s crucial to safeguard your legal right to pursue compensation. Our attorneys in Kern County recommend that you follow these steps following a Lyft accident:
Check For Injuries
Move to a safe location if you can, but do not leave the scene. Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention even if you feel fine. First-aid responders can help prevent your injuries from getting worse. Getting prompt medical care and documenting your injuries will strengthen your claim later on. After that, see your doctor and undergo a thorough physical examination to discover any hidden injuries, such as TBIs or internal bleeding.
Contact The Police
Law enforcement authorities will go to your location and preserve the accident scene. They will also draft an incident report, which can be valuable evidence if you decide to pursue compensation later.
Gather Solid Evidence
Take pictures and videos of the accident site, injuries, and property damage. Record witness testimonies, if any. You must also collect vital information, such as the involved parties’ names, phone numbers, driver’s license details, and insurance information.
Report To Lyft And Insurance Companies
When completing the rideshare company’s online form and talking with claim adjusters, provide all the necessary information. However, refrain from giving too much information. Remember that any statements you make could be used against you, impacting your right to compensation.
Call Arash Law At (888) 488-1391
During this trying time, it’s advisable to seek advice from our Kern County lawyers, who handle Lyft accident claims. We can prepare your case thoroughly and present the evidence that would support your claims. Our lawyers will guide you in taking the necessary steps and understanding the available legal options for your claim.
Statute Of Limitations For Lyft Accident Cases
Generally, California has a two-year statute of limitations for injury cases, including accidents involving Lyft. Failure to act within this time limit means forfeiting your chance to pursue compensation. However, there are certain exceptions to this legal deadline, such as in cases involving victims who are minors and delayed discovery of injuries.
After sustaining injuries in a Lyft crash, it is advisable to seek legal support promptly. Doing so gives your legal team ample time to thoroughly review your accident, gather essential evidence, and file a claim or lawsuit. Our Kern County Lyft accident lawyers can help you understand your right to seek compensation within the statutory timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lyft Accidents
Do I Need A Lawyer After A Lyft Accident?
One of the first questions victims ask after a Lyft crash is, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” A short answer to this question is that it depends on the details of your case. If you sustained serious injuries or there are liability disputes, hiring one may help your case.
Lyft and insurance companies have legal teams working on claim evaluations. Delays, denials, or disputes can happen, especially if there is insufficient evidence to back up your case. You must have experienced legal representatives who can advocate for you when these issues arise.
Our Kern County Lyft accident lawyers can gather crucial evidence and assist you in pursuing your claim. We will handle the legwork and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Should I Talk To Insurance Companies Before Consulting An Attorney?
Before discussing your settlement with insurance providers, it is advisable to seek guidance from Kern County lawyers who handle Lyft accidents. You can benefit from their legal guidance in navigating the intricacies of the legal system.
Moreover, dealing with insurance companies can be difficult, and misunderstandings can happen. Your lawyer can handle all communication, preventing you from unintentionally harming your claim. As experienced negotiators, they can be firm in advocating for your interests that would help in pursuing a fair settlement for your case.
Who Can I Seek Compensation From If I Am A Pedestrian Hit By A Lyft Driver?
A pedestrian should file a claim against the negligent Lyft driver in the event of an accident. Rideshare drivers usually have insurance policies that cover damages from accidents they cause.
In case their insurance coverage isn’t enough to pay for all the damages, victims may file a claim with Lyft. If the rideshare driver is active on the app and waiting for a ride request, the transportation network company (TNC) may use its contingent collision coverage. It may also utilize its third-party liability insurance if the incident occurs while the responsible driver is en route to pick up a passenger or transport one to a drop-off location.
How Long Will My Lyft Accident Case Take To Be Resolved?
No one can predict how long it will take to settle a Lyft accident claim. While some cases resolve in a few months, others take years. The specifics of your case usually influence the timeline.
Pursuing compensation for a Lyft accident involves dealing with insurance companies, similar to car accidents. This process can be time-consuming for various reasons. Some insurance companies may take time to process certain claims. The speed at which the rideshare company responds to these cases is also a major factor.
A trial may significantly extend the timeline. Many Lyft lawsuits can last months, while complex cases can take a few years. Our Kern County Lyft accident attorneys can evaluate your claim to provide an estimated timeframe for your case based on its specific details.
How Much Settlement Will I Get In A Lyft Accident?
Similar to the timeline for resolving Lyft accident claims, no lawyer can provide the exact value of your compensation. Lyft accident settlements vary significantly based on the specific circumstances of each case. The compensation is determined based on various factors, with the severity of your injuries being a key consideration.
Speak with experienced Kern County Lyft accident lawyers. We can examine the losses you have incurred and calculate their potential value. That way, we have a basis for negotiating with insurance adjusters.
Can I Still File A Lyft Accident Case Even If I Am An Undocumented Immigrant?
Yes, you may file a Lyft accident case even if you’re an undocumented resident. Under California law, all citizens, regardless of their immigration status, have the legal right to file a personal injury claim. You can pursue compensation for your damages regardless of your immigration status. If you are the next of kin of a deceased victim, you may also be able to initiate a wrongful death action.
If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to us. Our Kern County attorneys offer free and confidential initial consultations to discuss your Lyft accident claim. We will help you understand your rights and potential legal options.
Contact Our Kern County Lyft Accident Lawyers
Injured in a Lyft crash? You may be able to seek compensation for your losses. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391. Our experienced Kern County lawyers have been handling Lyft accident cases.
If you need skilled representation, we can help. Schedule a free initial consultation so we can assess your claim.
Our law firm serves different cities in Kern County, such as Bakersfield, Lancaster, Delano, Oildale, East Niles, Ridgecrest, Wasco, Shafter, Rosamond, Rosedale, Arvin, and McFarland.
