Lake 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 Record-Setting Lake County Lyft Accident Lawyers Provide Trusted Legal Results
Did you sustain serious injuries in a Lyft accident? We can help. Our Lake County Lyft accident lawyers are experienced and skilled in navigating California rideshare laws and Lyft’s insurance policies. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Lake County is generally laid-back and peaceful, but the serene community is not exempt from unfortunate traffic accidents. In particular, Highway 20, which runs through the county, has seen a relatively high number of traffic accidents. These incidents are largely due to inclement weather, as well as the high level of pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Lyft routes can go through Highway 20, especially when driving passengers between towns like Upper Lake and Clearlake.
If you were harmed in an accident with a Lyft, you can rely on Arash Law for help if you suffer injuries in the collision. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, we provide comprehensive legal services to help victims seek justice and fair compensation.
Hire Arash Law Lake County Lyft Accident Lawyers
Perhaps you’re thinking, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer for my Lyft accident?” Yes, you do. You need our Lyft accident lawyers in Lake County to expertly manage your case so you can focus on recovering and taking care of your family. We’re not saying that to serve our interests, but to serve yours. There are things we can do for you that will be very difficult to do without an attorney. Here are some of those:
- Investigate The Accident And Collect Evidence — Our Lake County Lyft accident attorneys will thoroughly investigate your Lyft accident to determine who is at fault. Additionally, we’ll collect evidence to build a strong case. This proof includes police reports, medical records, Lyft driver’s activity logs, surveillance footage, witness statements, and expert testimonies.
- Advocate For Your Rights In Settlement Negotiations — Insurance adjusters are trained to settle for the lowest amount possible. Our Lake County Lyft accident lawyers are familiar with insurer tactics and will ensure you’re not pressured into accepting unfair settlements.
- Identify The Parties Responsible For The Accident — Multiple parties may have contributed to the accident. Our experienced injury attorneys handling Lyft accident cases in Lake County will help you hold all the responsible parties accountable.
- Determine How Much Compensation You May Recover — Medical bills and property damage are often covered in a car accident. Our Lyft accident attorneys will not stop with these and will identify the full extent of damages you are owed.
- Present Your Case In Court — If we can’t reach a reasonable settlement with Lyft’s insurance providers, our Lake County injury law firm will take your case to court. You can trust us to fight for the compensation you deserve in or out of court.
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
Why Injured Victims Trust Our Accident Attorneys
Consisting of lawyers specializing in personal injury, our team has decades of combined experience in protecting the rights of the injured. We were able to successfully recover the following settlements for rideshare accident victims:
- $1,550,000 — In this motorcycle vs. rideshare incident, our client suffered spinal and wrist injuries.
- $1,125,000 — The victim suffered a lower back injury after the rideshare accident. We were able to help the client obtain a substantial settlement against the rideshare company.
- $1,100,000 — Our client was the passenger in a rideshare vehicle when the low-speed impact occurred. With their rare medical condition, our client needed lawyers who are well-versed in medicine and law.
Additionally, we are proud of the impression we have left on some of our clients. Here are some of their testimonials:
“Definitely would recommend anybody that is involved in a car accident in california.
From the first phone call to the last phone call the case manager nikki was amazing very diligent very punctual very detailed oriented got me the settlement and much more. The attorneys were amazing work quickly no BS straightforward. Very honest company knew what I was getting myself into without any hidden fees.”
— Eduardo M. (Yelp)
“There aren’t enough words to say just how great Arash Law is.
They were able to help us during a difficult time and were so patient throughout the process, explaining the next steps, and letting us know what to expect. This team will not let you down. Thanks Arash Law we really appreciate it!”
— Andy S. (Google Reviews)
The Lake County Lyft accident lawyers at Arash Law are familiar with the intricacies of Lyft accident cases. Our law firm can assist you in getting compensation for your damages.
Understanding Lyft Insurance Coverages
Rideshare companies like Lyft must provide commercial liability insurance to protect their drivers and riders. Lyft has specific “periods” to determine the applicable insurance coverage based on the driver’s status on the Lyft app and whether a passenger is in transport.
Period 0
The driver is still offline or has not yet logged into the app. The driver’s insurance covers any accident occurring during this period.
Period 1
Once the driver has logged in but is still waiting for a ride request, the standard coverage is as follows:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person.
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident.
- $25,000 for property damage per accident.
Lyft’s website mentions that its coverage for property damage is only up to $25,000. However, its Certificate of Liability Insurance states $30,000, in compliance with California law. In case of disputes, the court may award you up to $30,000 for property damage in Period 1.
Periods 2 And 3
The driver has accepted a ride request and is going to the passenger’s pickup location, which is considered Period 2. Period 3 is when the driver has picked up the passenger and is en route to the destination. For these two periods, Lyft provides the following coverages:
- $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage.
- Uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage.
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (up to the vehicle’s actual cash value with a $2,500 deductible).
We understand figuring out insurance coverage can get confusing. You can rely on our Lyft accident lawyers in Lake County for legal support and guidance. We’ll investigate your case, check your ride details, and determine which coverage applies.
Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents
The following are the most common causes of Lyft accidents in California:
- Distracted Driving — Lyft drivers use their cellphones while on duty to see and accept ride requests and find the best routes. Sometimes, they also strike up conversations with passengers, eat or drink, and even engage in personal grooming while driving. These distractions take their attention off the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Driver Fatigue — It is common for Lyft drivers to work long and irregular hours, and they are very likely doing other jobs as well. When they force themselves to drive while exhausted, their concentration and reaction times are compromised. This may hinder them from responding appropriately to road hazards.
- Reckless Driving — Lyft drivers may drive recklessly for various reasons. Speeding is likely to happen if they want to reach their passengers’ destinations faster. When they do so, they are putting themselves and their riders at greater risk of accidents.
- Driving Under The Influence (DUI) — DUI is a huge risk for any motorist, especially Lyft drivers. On average, around 37 people in the U.S. die each day due to drunk driving accidents. Considering this, Lyft has a zero-tolerance policy against drug and alcohol use.
- Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance — Lyft drivers must maintain their vehicles and pass inspections every 50,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, according to Lyft’s policy. Lack of maintenance can result in malfunctions and accidents.
- Road And Weather Conditions — Poorly maintained roads and inclement weather pose real challenges to all drivers. Lyft drivers must drive carefully when passing through a road hazard and during extreme weather.
Our Lake County Lyft accident lawyers will work tirelessly to uncover the cause of your accident and identify the liable party. While driver error is the most common problem, we’ll examine other contributing factors to maximize compensation. We’ll ensure you get compensation from all liable parties or their insurance providers.
Hurt in a Lyft Accident?
Common Injuries Resulting From Lyft Accidents
Different types of Lyft accidents — T-bone, sideswipe, hit-and-run, rear-end, and single-car accidents — can cause various injuries. Some are minor, while others can be fatal. Here are some of the most common injuries:
- Abrasions
- Lacerations
- Bruises
- Head and brain injuries
- Facial injuries
- Neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures
- Amputations
- Paralysis
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
If you plan to file a claim, talk with our Lake County Lyft accident attorneys for legal guidance. We’ll also get you access to the top medical specialists.
Possible Liable Parties For Your Lyft Accident
Identifying the liable parties in a Lyft accident can be complicated. A thorough investigation must be conducted to determine all negligent parties. At Arash Law, we have a dedicated legal team to investigate your Lyft accident down to the tiniest details.
Specifically, our Lyft accident attorneys in Lake County will explore the involvement of the following parties:
- Lyft Driver — The Lyft driver is liable when they drive negligently or recklessly. If you get into an accident due to their actions, either Lyft’s or the driver’s insurance will cover your damages.
- Lyft, Inc. — Although Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, Lyft may also be liable if their negligent hiring practices contributed to your accident. For example, the Lyft driver was found to be intoxicated at the time of the accident, and the investigation revealed that they had a recent DUI arrest, yet Lyft still hired them.
- Another Driver — It is also possible that another driver crashed into the Lyft vehicle you’re riding. Their auto insurance will pay for your claim.
- Government Entity Or Property Manager — If the accident is due to dangerous road conditions or missing traffic signs, you can file a claim against the government entity or property manager.
- Vehicle Manufacturer — The vehicle manufacturer may be liable if a vehicle defect or malfunction, such as brake failure, caused your accident. You may file a product liability claim against them.
Even if the victim is found to be partially responsible for the accident, they can still receive compensation due to California’s pure comparative negligence rule. It is a legal principle that divides liability among all parties. However, the settlement or award they receive will be proportionate to their percentage of liability.
How Our Lyft Accident Attorneys Will Prove Liability
To prove the liable party’s negligence, our Lyft accident lawyers will establish these four elements:
- Duty Of Care — First, we’ll establish that the defendant owed you a duty of care. If you were a Lyft passenger at the time of the accident, the driver owed you the highest degree of care to transport you safely.
- Breach Of Duty — Next, we will demonstrate that the at-fault party breached their duty of care. Examples of the driver’s breach of duty are speeding, DUI, and distracted driving.
- Causation — The breach of duty should’ve directly caused your accident and injuries. For instance, your driver was texting and accidentally crashed into the vehicle in front.
- Damages — The final element is that you suffered damages like medical bills, lost wages, or property damage. This element must be supported with detailed documentation, such as medical records, repair estimates, and expert testimony.
These are among the legal technicalities that we’ll take off your shoulders once you hire us. Our Lake County Lyft accident lawyers are well-versed in the law and possess a deep understanding of negligence and liability. You can focus on taking care of your health and family while you leave the heavy lifting to us.
Types Of Damages You Can Recover After A Lyft Accident
You may recover compensatory or punitive damages when you file a claim after your rideshare accident. Our Lake County Lyft and Uber accident lawyers will assess and calculate these damages to ensure everything is accounted for.
There are two types of compensatory damages — special and general.
- Special Damages — Special damages are also known as economic or tangible damages. They cover out-of-pocket expenses in the present and future. Examples include:
- Current and potential medical expenses to cover initial treatment, therapies, and long-term care.
- Lost wages for missed days of work during recovery.
- Potential loss of income due to the effects of your injuries on the quality of work.
- Repair or replacement cost of personal property.
- The cost of burial and funeral services (in a wrongful death claim).
- General Damages — These are also called non-economic or intangible damages. They are more difficult to quantify as they have no monetary value. These damages include:
- Emotional pain and mental suffering.
- Loss of relationship or consortium.
- Punitive Damages — In rare cases, the court may award punitive damages as a punishment to the defendant if their actions were grossly negligent or intentional.
How Our Lyft Accident Attorneys Deal With Insurers
Once you submit a claim to Lyft, expect an insurance adjuster to contact you. They may state that Lyft accepts the responsibility for the accident and even offers to settle immediately. The offer may be tempting, as it will provide you with an immediate resolution. However, accepting the first offer you get without consulting a lawyer is one of the common mistakes accident victims make.
Insurance companies aim to resolve your claim with a minimum payout. Adjusters usually make a quick offer to accident victims before they get the opportunity to fully assess their losses. By accepting the first offer, you may miss out on receiving the full compensation you deserve.
Our Lake County Lyft accident attorneys can protect your rights and represent your interests. We know all the strategies insurers use to minimize claims and can help you avoid them. We will aggressively fight for maximum compensation.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident
The impact of a Lyft accident may leave you confused and disoriented, particularly once you see the injuries and the wreck around you. However, it’s important to remain calm to protect your rights and safety.
Here are the steps you need to take immediately after an accident:
- Ensure Safety And Check For Injuries — The first thing you must do after a Lyft accident is to avoid further injuries. If you’re a passenger, ask the driver to move the vehicle to the side if possible. If you are a pedestrian, find a safe spot away from traffic if you can. Once you’re safe, check yourself for signs of injuries.
- Call 911 — If anyone has injuries, call 911 immediately to receive emergency medical assistance. If you plan to pursue a claim from Lyft, you must submit an accident report to the company immediately.
- Gather Evidence — Ask for the driver’s name, license number, contact details, insurance information, and the contact information of any witnesses. Document your injuries and the accident scene by taking photos or videos of the vehicles, as well as any road hazards or traffic signs.
- Seek Medical Attention — Even if you don’t have visible signs of injuries or generally feel fine, you should immediately see a doctor. Aside from ensuring that you’re in excellent physical condition, this will create a medical record to back your claim.
- Inform Your Insurance Provider — Notify your insurance provider about the accident. When talking with your insurer and the other party’s insurer, only state the facts. Keep your opinions to yourself, as your statements may be used against you.
- Consult With A Lawyer — Filing a claim against Lyft or its insurance provider won’t be easy. You need the best Lake County Lyft accident lawyers on your side. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 for a free consult.
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
The Time Limit For Filing Your Claim
California’s statute of limitations or time limit for personal injury claims is two years. This means that you only have two years from your accident date to file a claim. Any legal action made past this period will be dismissed, except in the following instances:
- Under the “delayed discovery” rule, the statute of limitations doesn’t start until the plaintiff discovers their injury.
- The injured victim is a minor or does not have the legal capacity to make decisions, as in the case of mental incapacity.
- The defendant left California after the accident but before the claim could be initiated.
If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to compensation. To avoid this, work with our personal injury lawyers in Lake County. In addition to filing your claim on time, they will get your medical bills paid and recover your lost wages.
Lyft Accident Statistics
In the 2019 study titled The Cost of Convenience: Ride-hailing and Traffic Fatalities, the researchers analyzed U.S. traffic accident rates and fatalities before and after introducing rideshare services like Lyft. The study showed an annual 3% increase in traffic fatalities since Lyft and Uber were founded. This equates to almost 1,000 more people dying each year due to traffic collisions.
There’s a significant trade-off when using rideshare services. It is true that Lyft offers a practical mode of transportation and reduces the frequency of DUIs. However, the increase in the number of traffic accident victims seems like a huge sacrifice.
Moreover, Lyft published its latest Safety Transparency Report covering 2020 to 2022. During the said period, there were 111 motor vehicle fatalities, which is 14% higher compared to the previous report. These numbers may still seem low compared to the millions of Lyft rides each year. However, for Arash Law, behind every number is a victim. These are lives unjustly lost and altered, victims and families seeking justice.
Our Lake County Lyft accident attorneys offer legal support and guidance to injured victims and their families. We will help you hold the negligent parties accountable and ensure you get the money you’re owed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sue Lyft For My Accident?
You may sue a rideshare company for your accident under certain conditions. For instance, you may file a claim against Lyft if they have been negligent in hiring their drivers. It is mandatory for rideshare companies to meticulously evaluate applicants before hiring them. This includes checking their criminal and driving records to ensure that passengers will be safe with them. If the investigation reveals that the Lyft driver involved in your accident has a previous record for the same offense, Lyft may also be liable.
If you intend to file a claim against the rideshare service, contact our Lake County Lyft accident attorneys at (888) 488-1391. Lyft’s lawyers and insurers won’t intimidate us easily. We will represent your interests and ensure you’ll be compensated for all your damages.
What Is The Value Of My Lyft Accident Claim?
We can’t determine the value of your claim without knowing the specifics of your case. Generally, cases involving catastrophic injury and fatalities result in higher compensation.
Various factors affect how much your claim is worth, including:
- The type and severity of your injuries.
- If your income capacity has changed.
- Your involvement in the collision.
- Your medical and other out-of-pocket expenses.
- Other projected expenses due to the accident.
Our Lake County Lyft accident lawyers will ensure you get the highest compensation possible. We recognize that financial compensation alone cannot fully heal the physical and emotional scars left by the accident. However, a fair and just settlement can provide the resources you need to rebuild your life and move forward with a sense of closure.
How Long Will It Take To Receive My Settlement?
Settling an accident claim with Lyft can take a few months to a few years. In some cases, Lyft might dispute liability, or there could be a question regarding what insurance policy applies. The process may take a year or longer to resolve when this happens.
Most civil claims are settled privately to save time and money. The parties involved should arrive at mutually acceptable terms to settle. Otherwise, litigation may be necessary, further delaying your claim’s resolution. Hire the Lyft accident lawyers Lake County residents trust. We’ll help secure maximum compensation while streamlining the process as much as possible.
Why Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer For My Lyft Accident Claim?
You need a personal injury lawyer because they have the experience and expertise to get you fair compensation. They can easily navigate the legal process, which would otherwise be difficult for you. These lawyers will guarantee the timely submission of your documents and the collection of evidence.
Choose our Lake County Lyft accident attorneys to represent your case. We will tirelessly fight for you until a satisfactory resolution is achieved.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Lake County Lyft Accident Lawyer?
Our Lake County Lyft accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis and typically charge between 33% and 40% of your compensation. This means you don’t have to worry about expensive hourly and out-of-pocket costs if you want to hire us. Furthermore, this arrangement ensures you won’t pay more for representation than the amount you’ll recover.
Talk with us if you want to know more about our processes and fees. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Contact The Lyft Accident Attorneys Lake County Chooses For Justice
Call (888) 488-1391 today to speak with knowledgeable and experienced Lake County Lyft accident attorneys. We offer a free evaluation of your case.
At Arash Law, we do our best to represent your interests and maximize your damages. We’ve already won more than half a billion dollars in compensation for our clients, and we can do the same for you. Our legal services are available at no upfront costs. We’ll only get paid once we secure your settlement or court award. Together, let’s pursue justice for your injuries and losses.
Our Lake County lawyers also provide legal assistance to victims of truck accidents and other personal injury cases. We offer our services throughout Lake County, including Lakeport, Middletown, Lucerne, Glenhaven, Kelseyville, Upper Lake, Nice, Soda Bay, and Clearlake. Arash Law also caters to neighboring counties such as Tehama, Yuba, Sonoma, Napa, and Solano.
