Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach Lyft Accident Lawyers Stand With You Through The Legal Process
Ride-sharing companies like Lyft cannot guarantee your safety, especially with negligent and reckless drivers involved. If you or a loved one is injured in a Lyft accident, call our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391. We can help you seek compensation for your losses.
Manhattan Beach in Los Angeles County is definitely a great place to relax, play volleyball, ride a bike, and go for a swim. You can take a stroll along Manhattan Beach Pier, where Manhattan Beach Boulevard meets the Pacific Ocean. From there, you can also see some of L.A.’s most expensive beachfront homes and the beautiful Palos Verdes Peninsula to the south.
Because of the city’s beautiful beaches and scenery, it’s no wonder that many tourists flock to this place to unwind. Traffic congestion and limited parking spaces are expected, so more people are opting for ride-sharing services. With busy roads and crowded establishments, both locals and tourists would prefer to enjoy the city without worrying about driving and searching for parking spaces. However, the surge in rideshare vehicles has become a concern due to the increasing number of car accidents in the city.
Were you recently injured in a Lyft accident? We can help. We’ll guide you through filing a personal injury claim, assist you in seeking medical attention, assess potential insurance coverage, secure important documents like accident reports, and negotiate with insurance companies. Get a free initial case consultation with our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident attorneys!
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
How Our Lyft Accident Attorneys Can Help
Our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers can assess your case and determine your possible legal options, assisting you in decision-making. We will handle negotiations with insurance companies to help protect against potential unfair treatment or intimidation.
If we can’t reach a fair settlement with the other parties, our attorneys can explore other possible legal options, like taking your case to court. We will evaluate your situation and see if it is the appropriate action for your case.
Following a Lyft accident, your priority should be recovery. While you focus on healing, we will process your claim on your behalf. Our legal team will investigate the accident, gather evidence, contact witnesses, and secure relevant reports to support your case.
Common Types Of Injuries In Lyft Accidents
Victims may be able to pursue compensation. Our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach will assess the severity of your injuries and calculate the potential value of your claim. Here are some common injuries in these types of accidents:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Head injuries
- Herniated discs
- Whiplash
- Severed limbs
- Soft tissue injuries
If you sustained injuries, regardless of their severity, you should see your doctor immediately. Consider consulting Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach for guidance on your next steps.
What Are The Common Causes Of Lyft Accident Injuries?
There are more and more people using ride-sharing services like Lyft these days. Although these services provide a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation, accidents can still happen. Lyft accident attorneys can help victims determine the factors that contributed to their collision, which may include:
Distracted Driving
Conversations with passengers, using navigation systems, or even using cell phones can cause drivers to lose their focus on the road. When their attention is somewhere else, they could fail to react to traffic events or notice the light changing, causing serious or fatal collisions with pedestrians and other drivers.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Drunk or drugged driving is illegal in California. Lyft has strict policies against DUI as well. Even so, there have been instances where drivers have disobeyed these rules, often resulting in serious accidents.
Alcohol, illegal drugs, and even certain medications can impair one’s senses, cognitive skills, and motor coordination. If an individual is under the influence of these substances while driving, they might experience slowed reaction times, blurred vision, impaired judgment, and heightened aggression — all of which increase the risk of accidents.
Driver Fatigue
Some Lyft drivers work long hours or take passengers after a full-time job. Even when they need to rest, they choose to drive to earn more. However, extreme exhaustion can impair a driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely. Drowsiness has similar effects to alcohol or drugs, demonstrating how dangerous it can be.
Reckless Driving
Poor Weather Conditions
Inclement weather conditions, like heavy rain or high winds, can make driving more dangerous. Some drivers may not be accustomed to driving in these conditions. When they don’t lower their speed, take extra caution when maneuvering, and adjust their driving behaviors, they may increase the risk of accidents.
Malfunctioning Vehicle Parts
If vehicle owners neglect maintenance, their cars might break down while on the road, putting their passengers and other road users at risk.
Some car problems, on the other hand, are caused by mistakes in the design or the manufacturing process, which are both examples of manufacturer negligence. In these cases, you can consult Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers to evaluate whether you may be able to file a product liability claim.
Unfamiliar Roads
Some drivers may not be acquainted with all the streets in Manhattan Beach. So, they rely on their navigation apps to know where they’re going and how to get there quickly. When Lyft drivers pick up passengers across the Bay Area, they can encounter unfamiliar roads, increasing accident risks due to confusion or wrong turns.
Self-Driving Cars
Some ride-sharing companies have started to explore autonomous vehicle technology with the goal of offering transport services to the public in self-driving cars. The risks of system malfunctions and inadequate responses to unpredictable road conditions are ever-present.
Other Road Users
Rideshare drivers are not always responsible for accidents. Even if they might share some liability for collisions, they could also become victims of Lyft accidents caused by other motorists, including drivers who are distracted, driving aggressively, or not adhering to traffic regulations. Car accident lawyers can investigate the accident to determine if a third-party driver caused the Lyft collision.
All Lyft drivers, other road users, and even pedestrians have a responsibility to take reasonable care to prevent potential injuries and fatalities caused by car accidents. They need to follow traffic laws; otherwise, they could face liabilities or penalties. If you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, you can seek help from our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers. We will discuss your legal options.
Pursuing Compensation After A Lyft Accident
Victims may be able to seek compensation under the California Civil Code. In general, they can pursue the following damages in a claim:
- Economic Damages — These are quantifiable financial losses, such as medical bills, salary wages, and lost earnings.
- Non-Economic Damages — These are intangible losses. Some examples are loss of enjoyment in life, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.
- Punitive Damages — Some damages don’t compensate the victim but rather serve to punish defendants for their outrageous negligence. Punitive damages are extremely rare in California, however.
The extent of your losses will determine the amount you can pursue in a personal injury claim. If you need assistance dealing with insurance companies, do not hesitate to call our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach.
Lyft’s Insurance Policy
Lyft accident claims are more complicated than cases involving regular passenger cars because of the company’s insurance policy. Attorneys who handle Lyft accident cases in Manhattan Beach can help you navigate the claims process. They understand the complex insurance concerns about rideshare services, which involve the following periods:
- Period 0 (Offline) — If a driver isn’t logged into the app, they are considered off-duty. Once they get into an accident, their personal or commercial auto insurance coverage will apply.
- Period 1 (Waiting for a Ride Request) — When a driver is online and waiting for a ride request during the accident, Lyft’s liability coverage includes:
- $30,000 for property damage.
- $100,000 per accident resulting in bodily injuries.
- $50,000 per person for injuries.
- Period 2 (On the Way to Pick Up a Rider) — When a Lyft driver accepts a ride request and is en route to pick up a rider, liability coverage is increased to up to $1 million.
- Period 3 (With a Passenger) — Once a driver picks up a passenger and begins driving them to their destination, Lyft provides this coverage. This includes $1 million in liability coverage, as well as uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
It is important to note that, despite these limits, victims or claimants may only be able to pursue compensation for the actual value of their damages. Lyft’s insurance policy could get tricky, especially if there are other complicating factors. It may help to hire Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach who are knowledgeable in this area.
Who Is Liable In A Lyft Accident?
Liability in a Lyft accident does not always rest solely with the rideshare driver. Other parties may also be held responsible for injuries and damages, including:
- Lyft — Ride-sharing companies need to ensure that their drivers are skilled and well-trained. If the company is careless when choosing drivers, it might be responsible for the accident.
- Car or Auto Parts Manufacturer — When a malfunctioning car part leads to an accident, the manufacturer of the car or the specific component that failed could be held responsible under the product liability law.
- Another Driver — No one can control someone’s behavior on the road. Other drivers could also breach their duty of care, resulting in injuries and fatalities. In this case, they have a shared responsibility for the collision.
- Third Parties — Depending on the circumstances, another individual or company could become liable for a Lyft accident. For example, a dog owner could become responsible if their pet causes a traffic disturbance, leading to a collision. A government body might also be at fault if it fails to fix a longstanding road issue, causing a Lyft driver to lose control.
It can be difficult to pinpoint who’s to blame in an accident. In some cases, two or more entities share liability in a collision. Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach can investigate the accident and identify any potentially liable parties that may have contributed to the collision.
Understanding Comparative Negligence In California
California follows the pure comparative negligence rule, allowing individuals to seek compensation even if they are partially at fault for an accident. This principle states that if you share responsibility for the accident, your financial compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if the court finds the defendant is 60% liable and the plaintiff is 40% at fault, the plaintiff can only get 60% of the damages instead of the full amount.
The concept of comparative negligence is important in evaluating the value of your case. Consult with our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach, who can explain how this rule would apply to your claim.
Statute Of Limitations When Filing A Personal Injury Claim
If you get injured in a Lyft accident, it is important to understand and comply with California’s statute of limitations. Section 335.1 of the California Code of Civil Procedure says that you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, this timeframe can vary based on the specifics of your case. Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers can help you determine which deadline applies.
There are times when the statute of limitations may be tolled or delayed. For example, if the person injured is a minor, the countdown might not commence until they turn 18. Similarly, if the defendant leaves the state, the deadline could be pushed back until they return. These cases demonstrate the legal system’s flexibility in dealing with unforeseen problems, giving everyone a chance at a fair judicial process.
If you miss the deadline, the court could dismiss your case, causing you to lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. Remember, the deadlines for filing personal injury claims are critical for any discussions concerning potential settlements between you, the negligent parties, and the insurance companies. If you don’t know when your deadline is, reach out to a Lyft accident attorney in Manhattan Beach.
How To Report A Lyft Accident In Manhattan Beach, CA
Following a Lyft accident in Manhattan Beach, it’s important to stay at the scene and call the police. When officers arrive, provide a factual account of the accident from your perspective, but avoid making any speculations about fault.
You can then report the accident on Lyft’s website. Go to the Report Accident webpage, select your role (driver/rider/other), and press “Save and continue.” After that, expect a call from the company.
If the collision involved your vehicle, you should also report it to your auto insurance provider. Again, be mindful of your words and provide only facts about the accident. Then, contact our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach to learn about your rights and legal options.
What Should I Do After A Lyft Accident?
After a Lyft accident, your priority should be your safety and well-being. Remain calm and wait for the authorities to arrive. While you are still at the scene, it is recommended to follow these steps:
- Move to a safe place and check for injuries.
- Call 911 immediately.
- Document the accident. Take pictures of the scene, vehicles, their plate numbers, your injuries, and road conditions.
- Get the contact information of the driver, witnesses, and other involved parties.
- Seek medical attention. No matter how small your injuries are, you need to go to the doctor to conduct a physical assessment.
- Report the accident to Lyft.
- Consult a legal professional. During a complimentary consultation, gather details regarding your rideshare accident and present them to our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers.
Suppose you were too badly injured in the accident to complete these steps. Our skilled Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach can gather evidence, secure documents, and investigate the crash on your behalf. We will work on your case to help you seek compensation for your injuries.
Lyft Accident Statistics
In Lyft’s safety report in October 2021, Lyft disclosed approximately 4,158 sexual assaults reported on its platform from 2017 to 2019. This disclosure contradicts the company’s mission of promoting safe and comfortable rides.
According to a study from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the emergence of ride-sharing services has increased traffic fatalities by 2 to 3 percent. This applies not only to vehicle occupants but also to pedestrians. Another study conducted by Bruce Schaller, a transportation analyst, shows that ride-sharing services contribute to traffic congestion. One primary reason is that drivers spend 40 to 60 percent of their time circling the roads without passengers.
The growing presence of Lyft vehicles on the road can contribute to traffic congestion and an increased risk of accidents. In crowded areas, drivers often try to find alternative routes or navigate narrow streets with heavy pedestrian traffic. If drivers fail to pay attention to the road or obey traffic rules, they are putting their passengers’ and others’ lives at risk.
Lyft Accident Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sue Lyft For An Accident?
Victims may be able to directly sue Lyft in certain cases, but not in most accidents involving its drivers. Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, which means they do not have an employer-employee relationship with the company. When they cause an accident, they are liable for damages. Either their auto insurance policy or Lyft’s third-party liability coverage for drivers will apply.
Lyft may not face liability unless it has directly contributed to the collision in some way, like hiring an unqualified driver due to a negligent hiring process. If you want to know if you have a case against the rideshare company, contact our Lyft accident attorneys in Manhattan Beach.
Do I Really Need A Manhattan Beach Lyft Accident Lawyer?
Are Passengers Insured With Lyft?
From the moment you enter the vehicle until you reach your destination, Lyft’s third-party liability insurance covers you. This coverage offers up to $1 million for your injuries and losses if you get into an accident. Nevertheless, the coverage may only apply to the actual damages passengers incurred. If you want to understand if the coverage applies to your case, consult our Lyft accident lawyers in Manhattan Beach.
What If The Insurance Company Contacts Me?
If an insurance company calls you, it is advisable to decline the conversation and direct the insurer to our Lyft accident attorneys. Some insurance providers may ask confusing questions that victims may not be able to answer accurately. In order to avoid potentially compromising situations, consider letting a Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyer handle all communications on your behalf.
How Much Is My Lyft Accident Case Worth?
The actual value of your Lyft accident case is based on your injuries, medical costs, age, health, and other circumstances. Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers can calculate your damages and give you an estimate based on available details. It may be beneficial to allow your attorney to conduct a more thorough evaluation of your case to determine the complete scope of your damages.
Injured? Call Our Lyft Accident Lawyers In Manhattan Beach
We cannot understate the benefits of ride-sharing services like Lyft. It allows people to enjoy Manhattan Beach without having to worry about heavy traffic and parking issues. However, we cannot completely entrust our lives and safety to their drivers or even other motorists. If you are injured in a Lyft accident, it is important to understand your legal options for pursuing compensation. No matter how small or severe your injuries are, you may be able to seek damages for your losses.
Are you still searching on Google, “I need a personal injury lawyer?” If you find yourself in this situation, there is a chance that you do. Our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident lawyers can provide you with dedicated legal representation and help you file a personal injury claim.
Reach out to us by calling our personal injury lawyers handling Lyft and car accidents at (888) 488-1391. If you have questions or concerns about your case, we are happy to answer them and discuss them with you. We can arrange a free initial case evaluation to assess your circumstances.
Our Manhattan Beach Lyft accident law firm also serves victims living in nearby areas, such as Los Angeles, Hermosa Beach, El Segundo, Redondo Beach, Lawndale, Hawthorne, Alondra Park, Lennox, Torrance, Gardena, and Inglewood.
