Lakewood Lyft Accident Lawyers
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Our Lakewood Lyft Accident Lawyers Offer Legal Representation Centered On Your Needs
Booking a Lyft is a convenient option when traveling in Lakewood. While this could be a good alternative to taking a bus or a taxi, untrained and negligent drivers could put your life at risk. In case you’re injured in a ridesharing collision, call our experienced Lakewood Lyft accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a complimentary case evaluation.
Located 23 miles from Los Angeles, Lakewood boasts a local economy fueled by agile and thriving small businesses, fostering a progressive atmosphere and making it a must-visit destination. Despite its urban setting, the city retains a small-town ambiance with its abundance of tree-lined streets and green spaces. Popular tourist attractions include Dominguez Rancho Adobe, Mayfair Park, and Del Valle Park.
Buses are usually the primary means of transportation in Lakewood. The city provides a transit system where passengers can ride a modern, air-conditioned, and clean-fueled bus, making their trip easy and comfortable. However, nothing beats the feeling of riding in a car, where you can fully rest and enjoy your privacy. People who want a hassle-free and yet affordable trip usually ride a Lyft instead.
As the use of ridesharing services grows, reports of Lyft accident cases have become more common. If you are injured in one, you can contact our Lyft accident attorneys in Lakewood to help assess your eligibility for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Hire Our Lakewood Lyft Accident Lawyers?
Our Lakewood Lyft accident lawyers provide comprehensive legal services tailored to your rideshare injury case. Our primary motivation is helping you seek compensation for damages under California law. Here’s why choosing our experienced attorneys to handle your rideshare accident may be beneficial to your case:
Decades Of Experience In Personal Injury
Our Lyft accident lawyers in Lakewood understand the statutes and regulations regarding insurance policies, personal injuries, and car accidents in California. We stay up to date on changes to local regulations that might influence your case. If you have questions about laws related to your case, we can discuss them with you.
Over the decades, our attorneys have handled various personal injury cases in California. We have experience in dealing with different insurance companies, types of injuries, and liable parties. Our legal team will use the knowledge we’ve gained to handle your case and seek compensation for your injuries and related losses.
Tailored Legal Strategy
We understand that each incident is unique. Therefore, our Lyft accident lawyers in Lakewood will employ legal strategies tailored specifically to your case. We will implement suitable strategies that align with your goals and work diligently on your claim.
Provide Personalized & Compassionate Support
Our Lakewood Lyft accident lawyers take a comprehensive and personalized approach to each case we handle. We are committed to keeping you informed about the status of your case and involving you in important decision-making processes.
Our Lyft accident attorneys are also here to provide support throughout the legal process. We can connect you with qualified medical professionals in the state, advise you on your legal options, and offer you complimentary transportation if necessary. Moreover, our goal is to handle the process and legal challenges so you can focus on your physical and emotional healing.
How Can Our Lawyers Protect Your Rights?
If you’re asking, “Why do I need personal injury lawyers for my Lyft accident?” Here’s what you need to know.
Our experienced attorneys handling Lyft accidents in Lakewood can handle communications with insurance companies and work to protect your interests during negotiations. We have been dealing with insurance companies for a long time and can help you navigate the challenges in pursuing a claim.
Our team will work to calculate all your losses and help you understand the potential value of your claim. Our Lyft car accident lawyers will use our understanding of rideshare laws to help you seek just compensation.
If a fair settlement is not reached, our Lyft accident attorneys in Lakewood are prepared to represent your case in trial if necessary.
What Causes Lyft Accidents?
Lyft accidents are most commonly caused by driver error. This can include mistakes or negligence by either the Lyft driver or other motorists on the road.
- Distracted Driving — Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car entertainment systems while operating a vehicle are examples of distracted driving. These activities can disturb the driver’s focus and might lead to collisions.
- Speeding — Unlike other jobs with fixed hourly rates, driving for Lyft utilizes a unique payment system based on completed trips. This can incentivize drivers to prioritize completing quotes, potentially leading to speeding and posing risks to their passengers and other road users.
- Driving Under the Influence — Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination, and the ability to drive safely.
- Drowsy and Fatigued Driving — Driving under the influence of sleep or fatigue is often compared to driving drunk. Drowsiness has similar effects on an individual’s ability to drive safely, such as reduced reaction times and impaired decision-making.
However, drivers are not always solely at fault. There are many other factors contributing to some cases in Lakewood that our Lyft accident lawyers have seen, such as:
- Mechanical Failures — Defective auto parts, brake failures, and tire blowouts can also lead to accidents.
- Inclement Weather Conditions — Unpredictable weather conditions are also a major cause of accidents in the United States. In California, the 65 mph speed limit on all major highways is automatically decreased to 55 mph when it rains to avoid accidents.
- Poor Road Conditions — Poor road signage and potholes are two of the most prevalent traffic hazards. They could cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, potentially resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
Common Types Of Accidents Involving Lyft
You will never know when or where a Lyft accident will take place. However, there are patterns in how they occur. Here are some common car accident cases involving Lyft:
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions typically occur when a car crosses into an opposing lane and collides with another vehicle going in the opposite direction. Drivers approaching the wrong way on one-way roads can also cause head-on crashes, which can result in multiple injuries.
Rear-End Collisions
If drivers don’t leave enough distance between their car and the vehicle in front of them, they might not be able to brake in time safely. As such, they could be involved in a rear-end accident if the car in front of them suddenly stops.
Rear-end collisions could happen for other reasons, such as:
- Using a phone or a similar device while driving.
- Misjudging the distance.
- Intentionally tailgating the vehicle in front.
- Failing to stop due to defective brakes.
Sideswipes
Sideswipe collisions occur when the sides of two vehicles come into contact with each other while moving in the same or opposite directions. These accidents can happen when drivers fail to use their signal lights when changing lanes or entering the highway. Another cause is when the driver is distracted and unintentionally drifts out of their lane.
These accidents can range in severity, causing anything from minor paint scratches to extensive vehicle damage and serious injuries. In some cases, the force of the collision can cause a vehicle to overturn. Sideswipe collisions can occur on any road, but they are more common on the heavily traveled multilane highways in Lakewood.
T-Bone Accidents (Side-Impact Collisions)
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), around 22% of fatalities among vehicle occupants in car incidents in 2021 were attributed to T-bone accidents.
A “T-bone accident” occurs when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another, resembling the shape of the letter “T.” This type of accident often happens at crossroads with stoplights or signs. For instance, a driver runs a red light without stopping and hits the side of another car at the intersection.
When a side-impact collision occurs, it’s important to ascertain whether one of the drivers was negligent or reckless. Depending on the accident’s circumstances, some or all damages resulting from the collision may be held against the at-fault motorist. Get in touch with Lyft accident lawyers in Lakewood to explore your legal options.
Bicycle And Pedestrian Accidents
One of the primary concerns for cyclists is colliding with a motor vehicle. Considering the size difference between a bicycle and other vehicles, the rider is at a higher risk of sustaining serious injuries.
Rideshare services add another concern, as their drivers often park carelessly on the side of the road to drop off or pick up passengers.
There is also another threat that cyclists need to be aware of: getting “doored” by rideshare passengers or drivers. In many cases, the passengers getting out of the car fail to check the immediate vicinity before opening the door, potentially hitting a bicyclist or even a pedestrian.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents occur when a vehicle loses balance and stability. Quick turns or changes can easily affect a vehicle’s balance and stability. Rollover crashes can also happen due to overcorrections, speeding, and encountering road obstacles.
If you are injured in any of these accidents, you can contact our Lyft accident lawyers in Lakewood. We can help you determine who’s at fault, investigate your case, gather evidence, and secure important documents like accident reports.
Common Injuries Sustained In Lyft Accidents
Lyft accidents can cause both physical injuries and emotional trauma to victims. The following are some common injuries sustained in a Lyft accident:
- Broken bones
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Whiplash
- Facial injuries
- Burns
- Amputation
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Chest injuries and rib fractures
- Wrongful deaths
These injuries can result in extensive medical procedures and high hospital bills. If you sustained harm and damage because of someone’s negligence, you might be eligible to pursue compensation for your medical expenses and related losses. Our Lyft accident lawyers in Lakewood can handle negotiations with the insurance companies on your behalf and pursue fair compensation that may be available to you.
Furthermore, our Lyft accident attorneys can assist you in receiving medical care, documenting your injuries, securing your medical report, and filing a personal injury claim against the liable parties.
Who Can Be Liable After A Lyft Accident?
Our Lakewood Lyft accident lawyers may be able to help victims seek compensation by identifying potentially liable parties, which might include:
- The Lyft Driver — During the accident, Lyft drivers are generally considered independent contractors, which means they have no employer-employee relationship with Lyft. If they caused the accident due to negligence or reckless behavior, they might be liable for compensating the victim.
- Lyft — Lyft may also face liability for accidents involving its drivers. A rideshare company must verify that its drivers meet certain standards, including the possession of a valid driver’s license and the maintenance of proper insurance coverage. Failure to adhere to these standards could potentially subject the company to partial liability for an accident.
- Other Drivers — Lyft rideshare accidents may result from other drivers’ carelessness or wrongdoing on the road. In these situations, the driver’s insurance policy might cover any damages and losses incurred by the victim.
- Manufacturer of the Vehicle — Defective vehicle parts or manufacturing errors can also contribute to Lyft accidents. In these cases, the vehicle manufacturer or part supplier may be held liable. You may have a product liability claim against the maker of the vehicle or the defective component.
Generally, the party at fault for causing the accident is responsible for compensating you. However, seeking compensation isn’t simple because multiple liable parties could be involved. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Lakewood can assist you in navigating complex claims, helping identify all individuals and companies that contributed to your injuries.
Lyft Insurance Coverage For Accidents
If a Lyft driver’s negligence caused your injuries, the topic of insurance coverage tends to be more complicated. Although the rideshare company provides third-party liability insurance for its drivers, its coverage would depend on the driver’s activity at the time of the incident.
Your Lyft accident lawyers would have to determine whether the driver was using the Lyft app or not, which would determine how much coverage may apply. Here’s how it works:
Period 0 — If the driver is not logged into the Lyft app, your claim will be filed through the driver’s auto insurance coverage.
Period 1 — At this stage, the Lyft driver is using the app but has not yet accepted any ride requests. In this case, the third-party liability insurance applies to accidents, covering:
- $25,000 for property damage
- $50,000 for bodily injuries per person
- $100,000 for bodily injuries per accident
Period 2 — If the driver accepts the ride request and is on their way to pick up the passenger, Lyft must provide at least $1 million in commercial insurance for accidents during this period.
Period 3 — In this phase, the passenger is already in the vehicle and heading to their destination. In case of an accident, Lyft provides similar coverage as in Period 2.
Our Lakewood Lyft accident attorneys are familiar with rideshare insurance policies and regulations in California, enabling us to evaluate your case carefully.
Compensation After A Lyft Accident
Injured victims typically have the right to claim damages following a rideshare collision. Whether they’re eligible for compensation will depend on the specific circumstances of the case. Our Lyft accident lawyers will take into account the extent of your injuries and how they have affected all facets of your life, including your ability to work and perform regular tasks.
Our Lyft accident attorneys in Lakewood can help you seek compensation for economic damages. These losses are determined by receipts, invoices, and bills, among others. Here are some examples:
- Present and future medical expenses
- Disability-related needs
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost income-earning opportunities
You could also file for non-economic damages, which are intangible losses that are difficult to calculate. These may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of quality of life
The court may award punitive damages in rare instances where the at-fault party is shown to have engaged in especially severe wrongdoing. This kind of compensation aims to penalize the offender and deter similar behavior in the future. The actual amount you can claim would also depend on other factors. Learn more by calling our Lakewood Lyft accident lawyers so we can discuss the potential compensation you may be entitled to.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident
Following a Lyft accident, here are steps to consider to help protect your rights:
- Remain calm and move to the safe side of the road.
- Check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries.
- Call the police or 911.
- Get the names and contact numbers of everyone involved in the collision.
- Take pictures of the accident scene, including the damage to vehicles, skid marks (if any), and the surrounding area. Also, capture screenshots of your Lyft ride screen showing the driver’s information and the trip details.
- See a doctor immediately for a physical exam, even if your injuries are minor or you feel fine.
- Report the accident to Lyft immediately.
- Contact Lakewood Lyft accident attorneys for legal assistance.
We recommend that you seek a lawyer before you talk to insurance companies. Insurance companies may not prioritize your best interests. Instead, let a Lyft accident lawyer handle the negotiations and communications with the insurance providers.
Lakewood Lyft Accident Lawyer: FAQs
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Lakewood Lyft Accident Lawyer?
Typically, Lyft accident attorneys in Lakewood work on a contingency fee agreement, which means there are no upfront legal costs. Their fees are contingent on the outcome of the case. They only get paid if they are successful in pursuing compensation for the client.
This arrangement provides accident victims with the opportunity to access legal representation with fewer financial concerns. It’s important for clients to inquire about their lawyers’ fee structure before agreeing to representation or signing any legal contracts.
At Arash Law, we also operate on a contingency-based arrangement. We don’t charge attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. Please note that you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs. Our lawyers will discuss our payment terms and potential costs during your consultation.
How Long Do I Have To File An Injury Claim For A Lyft Accident In Lakewood?
Personal injury claims typically follow a two-year statute of limitations, which starts from the date of the accident. This means you must file an injury lawsuit within that time frame, or you will lose the right to claim compensation. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Consider contacting our Lakewood Lyft accident lawyers to determine the deadline for your case.
Can I File A Lawsuit Against Lyft If I’ve Been Injured In An Accident?
Yes, but only in certain situations. For accidents involving Lyft drivers, the company is not directly liable for the resulting damages and injuries. Rather, the driver would pay the victims through their auto insurance policy or Lyft’s third-party liability.
If you want to sue the rideshare company, your Lyft accident lawyer would have to prove that it directly contributed to the incident through negligence. For example, it could be deemed negligent if it fails to properly screen applicants, allowing someone with a history of traffic violations to drive for them. If that driver causes a collision while transporting a passenger, Lyft could share some of the blame. This incident could have been prevented if the company had not been negligent in its vetting process.
Of course, there are other cases in which the ridesharing company itself is liable. To determine if this applies to you, our Lyft accident attorneys in Lakewood can provide legal advice and support.
What Kind Of Compensation Can Victims Pursue In A Lyft Accident?
Victims can claim economic and non-economic damages. The particular type and amount of compensation you may be eligible for will depend on the circumstances of your personal injury claim. Our Lakewood Lyft accident lawyers can evaluate the specifics of your case and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
What If The Lyft Accident Results In The Death Of A Loved One?
The surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim if their loved one died in a Lyft accident. As long as you’re a legal heir, you may be eligible to seek compensation for the following damages:
- Medical bills incurred by the deceased victim.
- Burial and funeral costs.
- Loss of financial support.
- Emotional distress.
Consult Our Dedicated Lyft Accident Lawyers In Lakewood For Legal Help
The Lyft accident lawyers of Arash Law have experience handling rideshare accident cases and offer personalized legal support to clients. Our lawyers handling Lyft accidents in Lakewood are committed to addressing your concerns, responding to your inquiries, and keeping you informed throughout the legal process.
Our Lyft accident lawyers in Lakewood work to help protect the rights of victims and assist them in seeking compensation under the law. We are committed to supporting you through this challenging time.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 or reach out online for a free case evaluation.
We also provide legal services in nearby areas, such as Bellflower, Paramount, Artesia, Cypress, Signal Hill, Cerritos, Norwalk, Los Alamitos, Compton, and La Mirada.
