Pacoima 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.
Don’t Wait. Don’t Hesitate. Call Our Pacoima Lyft Accident Lawyers Now!
Lyft accidents often come with various challenges, including painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and complicated insurance claims. It’s time to take action and hold the responsible parties accountable. Our Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers are here to support you and protect your rights. Call (888) 488-1391 to learn how to get started with your claim.
Lyft is a popular transportation option in Pacoima. However, the convenience of hailing a ride through an app may come at the expense of safety. Passengers, motorists, and other road users can get into an accident caused by a negligent Lyft driver in the blink of an eye.
If you or a loved one is injured in a Lyft accident, our attorneys in Pacoima are here to help. We offer a free legal consultation where you can learn more about your rights, options, and next steps. Our team will listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide personalized legal advice.
How Our Pacoima Lyft Accident Lawyers Can Help
We expertly represent victims injured in Lyft accidents in the challenging task of facing the rideshare company. Lyft and its insurers may contest liability in injury claims. Even when you’re not at fault for the Lyft accident, securing a fair settlement can feel like an uphill battle.
Hiring one of our injury lawyers can significantly raise the likelihood of Lyft taking your claim seriously. Insurers might reconsider offering a claimant lowball settlements when they know a skilled attorney is involved. Our Pacoima Lyft accident attorneys can help you level the playing field. We know how to push back against their tactics and fight relentlessly for the compensation you deserve.
With our Pacoima injury law firm, victims have a fighting chance against corporate giants like Lyft. You can count on us to pursue maximum compensation regardless of the challenges the situation may bring. We put our 100% into every case we accept, and we don’t expect payment until after we’ve won you a favorable settlement. Learn how you can exercise your rights and hold the liable parties accountable at zero upfront costs. Call (888) 488-1391 for free legal advice about your personal injury case.
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
Proven Track Record Of Success In Rideshare-Related Cases
Our personal injury attorneys don’t just win; we win big. We’ve recovered over $500 Million in compensation for thousands of clients across California. You can trust our dedicated Lyft accident lawyers in Pacoima to pursue the best possible outcome for your case. Here are some notable results from our previous rideshare-related cases:
- $1,100,000 — Our attorneys successfully handled a case where a low-impact accident with minimal property damage incurred heavy losses for the victim. Our client suffered from a rare medical condition that required specialized knowledge of both medicine and law.
- $1,125,000 — This case entailed numerous litigation challenges. Regardless, our attorneys won the rightful amount for our client’s low back injury and damages.
- $1,550,000 — Our client sustained spinal and wrist injuries in a motorcycle accident involving a rideshare company.
Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents
A variety of factors can cause Lyft accidents, and understanding each one is crucial when building a personal injury case. Identifying the causes can help determine who should be held responsible for your damages. Consult our Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers. We can investigate the incident and uncover all contributing factors.
Rideshare accidents can be caused by many factors, including:
Driver Error
Accidents are likely to occur when drivers are negligent on the road. The risks are higher for Lyft drivers, who don’t receive specialized training to transport passengers. They are also prone to making errors, as they could get distracted by the notifications on their phones and their passengers while driving.
Additionally, some drivers might rush to complete rides quickly so they can accept more orders and make more money. They might engage in risky behaviors like speeding, running red lights, or driving recklessly, potentially resulting in accidents.
However, even if the driver follows all safety precautions while operating the vehicle, a crash could still occur due to another motorist’s carelessness. Accidents involving Lyft can occur due to:
- Tailgating or following too closely.
- Changing or merging lanes recklessly.
- Turning unsafely.
- Driving under the influence.
Our Lyft accident attorneys in Pacoima will investigate who the negligent driver is. In cases where multiple drivers are at fault, we will make sure each one is held responsible for your losses.
Vehicle Equipment Breakdowns
Another possible cause of Lyft accidents is vehicle malfunction. In contrast to taxi companies, Lyft does not conduct safety inspections or upkeep on the vehicles that drivers use. The responsibility for routine maintenance and getting inspections falls entirely on the driver. If the driver neglects this duty, they could be held liable for a resulting accident.
However, not all breakdowns result from poor maintenance. If a defective product design or manufacturing error caused the malfunction, your case might fall under product liability instead. In this scenario, the company that made, distributed, or sold the faulty vehicle part could be held responsible for your damages.
To accurately pinpoint the cause, our Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers can work with experts and engineers. They can provide valuable insight and evidence, strengthening your claim.
Road Hazards
Car accidents involving Lyft could also occur due to road hazards, such as potholes, uneven pavement, or debris. These conditions typically result from poor maintenance, but external factors could also contribute. One notable example happened on Paxton Street in Pacoima, where heavy rain damaged the pavement and caused a four-foot pothole to form.
Determining liability in accidents involving these factors can be complicated, but our Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers can skillfully handle the challenge. We will carefully evaluate who failed to uphold their responsibilities, whether it’s the government for poor road maintenance or a motorist who failed to drive safely over or around a road hazard.
Company Negligence
Lyft categorizes its drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification allows the company to deny responsibility for most accidents caused by drivers. If a Lyft driver is involved in a rideshare accident, the company can argue that it isn’t responsible for their actions.
However, there may be cases where Lyft itself demonstrates negligence that contributes to an accident. For example:
- Negligent Hiring — Lyft hired a driver with a history of traffic violations, and that driver caused an accident resulting in injuries to a passenger.
- Lack Of Safety Protocols — The company knew or should have known that its app encouraged or enabled drivers to use their phones illegally while driving.
There are many reasons why a Lyft accident could happen, and these will determine what laws apply and who should be held liable. Rely on the best Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers to ensure all factors are considered when building your case.
Potentially Liable Parties In Your Lyft Accident
Under the state’s fault-based statute, whoever is responsible for a vehicle accident is legally liable for your damages, including medical expenses and property repairs. In a Lyft accident, the following parties may be responsible:
- Lyft driver
- Lyft, Inc.
- Government
- Vehicle manufacturer
- Another driver
- Another third party
Unfortunately, identifying the responsible parties in Lyft accidents can be complicated. Furthermore, the parties involved will try hard to minimize or deny their liability. If you want to have the best chances of success, hire a lawyer from one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California to work on your case.
Our Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers can help you hold all the at-fault parties accountable, including large corporations. Contact us today to take the first step toward securing justice.
Lyft’s Insurance Coverage For Accident Victims
If the Lyft driver is at fault for your accident, you may be able to file a claim with Lyft. However, the coverage depends on the time the accident occurred, which is categorized into different periods:
Period Zero
Lyft doesn’t provide coverage if the driver is not logged into the app. For accidents occurring during Period 0, the driver’s auto insurance should cover the resulting damages.
Period One
At this stage, the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a match. If you’re injured during Period 1, you can file a claim with the Lyft driver’s auto insurance first. If it’s not enough, Lyft’s insurance coverage steps in and provides up to:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person.
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident.
- $30,000 for property damage.
Period Two
The trip enters Period 2 once the driver accepts a ride and makes their way to the passenger’s pickup location. California requires ridesharing companies to maintain commercial insurance coverage of at least $1 million for their drivers. This policy can cover passengers, pedestrians, or other parties injured in accidents that occur during this period.
Period Three
The third and last period begins when the driver picks up the rider. Lyft’s $1 million coverage extends into this period. However, if an uninsured third-party driver causes the accident, Lyft drivers and passengers are covered by Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist (UI/UIM) insurance.
If you’re unsure which period your accident falls into, let our Lyft accident lawyers in Pacoima handle it on your behalf. Once we identify the applicable insurance policies, we will also take charge of the succeeding steps, such as filing paperwork and negotiating. With our support, you’ll have the best chance of receiving fair remuneration for your injuries.
Typical Injuries Resulting From A Lyft Accident
Injuries from Lyft accidents can range from mild to catastrophic, each bringing a unique set of challenges. When filing a claim, you must understand how the injuries affect your life and how much compensation you need to address the consequences. Here are some common types of injuries:
- Scrapes, cuts, and lacerations
- Soft tissue injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Internal damage
- Neck injuries
- Amputation
- Broken bones
- Head and traumatic brain injuries
Regardless of the severity, any physical harm resulting from an accident caused by someone else is compensable through a personal injury claim. Since the impact and ensuing costs differ for each victim, you must rely on our Pacoima Lyft accident attorneys to ensure you get fair compensation for your treatment, long-term care, and more. Our team will meticulously assess all the losses you incurred due to your injuries.
Types Of Compensation From Lyft Accidents
As a victim of someone else’s negligence, you should not have to shoulder the expenses on your own. You have the right to make the negligent parties pay for the harm they’ve caused. Likewise, you should not have to handle the process of pursuing compensation alone. Our Pacoima lawyers for Lyft accidents are here to assist you. We will work to obtain the highest settlement for your damages, which may include:
- Your past and future medical expenses.
- Damaged property.
- Lost wages and earning opportunities.
- Travel costs related to the accident.
- Physical pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Psychological impacts, like PTSD.
- Reduced quality of life.
You are entitled to compensation that reflects the full scope of your suffering, expenses, and other losses. However, this is challenging as insurance companies are notorious for devaluing claims. Speak to our Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers before accepting any settlement offer. You can trust that we will assess your damages fairly and accurately. We are also prepared to fight aggressively for what you’re owed, whether in or out of court.
What To Do In A Lyft Accident
If you get into a Lyft accident, there are ways to protect your rights and start building a solid case from the beginning. Take the following steps while you’re still at the scene of the accident:
- Stay calm and remain at the scene. Assess yourself for any injuries before assisting others.
- Call 911 immediately. When the authorities arrive, cooperate and relay what happened. Stick to the facts, but avoid admitting fault or blaming others.
- If you’re able, take photos and videos of the accident scene and important details, such as your injuries, vehicle damage, debris from the crash, etc.
- Note the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses.
- Report the crash to Lyft via the app. If you were not a passenger at the time of the incident, you can file a report through Lyft’s website.
Make sure to get further medical evaluation after the accident. Keep in mind that some injuries don’t show any signs at all. The adrenaline and fear could also hide pain and discomfort. People with certain types of brain damage are especially at risk because they might not even know they’re in a critical state.
Next, consult our Lyft accident lawyers in Pacoima; we will evaluate your case for free. We can help you understand the legal implications of the accident and guide you through the process of filing a claim. Our expertise in personal injury and rideshare regulations will prove to be instrumental in obtaining the outcome you deserve.
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
Proving Negligence In A Lyft Accident
One of the most important duties of a lawyer is proving the other party’s negligence, which is a requirement for filing a valid claim. They must demonstrate that:
- The at-fault party owed you a duty of care. For example, Lyft drivers are held to the highest standard of care when transporting passengers. They must follow traffic laws and use the utmost caution on the road to ensure the safety of their passengers.
- They breached their duty by not doing what’s expected of them in a given situation. In our example above, this could mean that the Lyft driver caused an accident by violating a traffic law or failing to drive appropriately in a dangerous situation.
- The breach of duty directly caused the accident. This means the defendant’s action or inaction contributed to the injuries you sustained. As an example, the Lyft driver’s choice to drive too fast or run a red light directly led to the collision where you sustained injuries.
- The accident resulted in injuries and damages, such as medical bills, property repairs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Proving each element requires a thorough understanding of the legal system. Turn to our Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers for help. We will build a solid case by gathering and preserving different forms of evidence, including accident reports, photos and videos of the scene, and eyewitness testimony.
Our team will also collaborate with various experts to collect documents and information that can further support your claim. For example, we can work with accident reconstructionists, who can help illustrate how a breach of duty might have occurred or how it led to the event. We might also engage with medical professionals to substantiate the extent of the injuries you sustained.
Our strategic approach can help you achieve your goals. Discuss them with our award-winning lawyers. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
The Deadline For Filing A Claim
For Lyft accidents in Pacoima, you generally have two years to bring a case to court. However, there are some cases where the timeframe may be paused or tolled. The deadlines and possible exceptions are outlined in California’s statute of limitations, which can be challenging to navigate for those without legal expertise.
For instance, if you didn’t immediately discover your injuries, the statute of limitations may start from the discovery date instead. Speak to our Lyft accident lawyers in Pacoima immediately. Our team, headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., is the best partner for navigating the legal system effectively. We will ensure you meet all your deadlines and help you secure the maximum compensation.
Rideshare Accident Statistics
Lyft is linked to a spike in fatal traffic accidents across the country. According to the University of Chicago, the introduction of rideshare services correlated with a 3% increase in deaths annually. In major U.S. cities, the rate of accidents rose from 2 per 100,000 people to 3.5 per 100,000 people.
Unfortunately, fatalities related to Lyft are still increasing. From 2020 to 2022, the company recorded 111 motor vehicle accidents. This figure represents a 14% increase in rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled and a 31% increase in frequency rate from the 2017 to 2019 data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need A Lawyer For A Lyft Accident?
If you are injured by a rideshare in an accident, you are not legally obligated to hire an attorney. However, attempting to handle the case on your own can be difficult, especially when you’re still healing from your injuries. Moreover, you must have extensive knowledge of the applicable laws and adhere to strict procedural rules to manage your claim successfully.
Let our Pacoima Lyft accident attorneys represent you instead. We know the ins and outs of personal injury claims in California, and we can guide you through the legal system effectively. With competent lawyers on your side, you can get higher compensation than you could win on your own.
Can I File A Claim If I’m Partly At Fault For A Lyft Accident?
If you are injured in an accident that’s partially your fault, you can still seek compensation from the other party. Pacoima follows California’s pure comparative negligence statute, in which someone can be 99% responsible in an accident and still file a claim. However, the amount you can recover will be reduced by your percentage of liability.
For example, you are determined to be 8% responsible for a crash. If your losses total $100,000, you are entitled to receive $92,000.
Even if you’re partially to blame, you still have the right to get what you’re owed. However, insurance companies might attempt to shift the blame onto you to increase your liability and lower their responsibility.
How can you protect yourself from these tactics? The best thing to do is hire Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers. They will protect you from being unfairly blamed and fight for the compensation you truly deserve.
Do I Have To Go To Court For My Lyft Accident?
In most cases, you don’t have to proceed to trial. Most civil cases end in a settlement, which saves both time and money for all parties involved. However, this is only possible if you and the other party reach a mutually agreeable resolution.
There are times when litigation is the only option left to get a fair outcome. This will likely depend on how your case unfolds and what your lawyer thinks. It’s best to discuss this option with your Pacoima Lyft accident attorney, who can then explain the advantages and disadvantages of going to court.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Lyft Accident Attorney?
Most personal injury attorneys, including Lyft accident lawyers in Pacoima, operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t have to pay anything upfront. Instead, their fees will be deducted from the compensation they recover for you.
Under this arrangement, you only pay if your lawyer wins your case. You don’t have to take a huge financial risk if you want to exercise your rights and file a claim. It also allows our attorneys at Arash Law to make our top-notch legal representation more accessible for the injured.
Call The Lyft Accident Attorneys Pacoima Relies On
Our lawyers have spent decades sharpening our approach to personal injury cases, ensuring justice is within the reach of the injured. Although Lyft and other rideshare services are still fairly new, we stay on top of any changes and updates in California laws and regulations. This allows us to provide top-tier legal representation, protect victims’ rights, and push for accountability from Lyft and other parties.
Our Pacoima Lyft accident lawyers are committed to ensuring your satisfaction with both your settlement and your experience with our firm. From the very beginning, we strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you. Call (888) 488-1391 to learn more about what we can do for you. The first consultation is always free.
Our law firm provides legal services beyond Pacoima, such as in Arleta, Mission Hills, Panorama City, Sun Valley, Sylmar, San Fernando, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Glendale, La Canada Flintridge, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Altadena, Calabasas, Pasadena, Culver City, Santa Monica, South Pasadena, and San Marino.
