San Diego Lyft Accident Lawyers
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Our Dedicated San Diego Lyft Accident Lawyers Are Advocating For Your Legal Rights
San Diego is known not only for its tourist attractions, such as the San Diego Zoo and Petco Park, but also for its craft beer industry. No wonder ridesharing services, particularly Lyft, are becoming a great transportation option for tourists and the county’s 3.3 million local residents. However, Lyft rides aren’t always safe. If you or someone you know sustained injuries after a collision with a Lyft car, our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers can help you seek compensation. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 and take advantage of our free initial consultation.
The California Statewide Integrated Traffic Record System (SWITRS) reported 7,489 deaths and injuries from 5,522 traffic accidents of all kinds, including ridesharing collisions, in San Diego City in 2022. That is 20 cases every day, which is quite alarming. Despite regular safety training, Lyft drivers are still prone to road accidents. A report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that Lyft and other ridesharing companies contribute to vehicle crashes, causing pedestrian and motorist injuries.
Arash Law has a legal team experienced in handling personal injury cases, including Lyft accidents. We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t have to pay us unless we win your case. However, certain case-related expenses may still apply regardless of the case result. Our team can clarify this to you during your initial consultation.
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
How Can Arash Law’s San Diego Lyft Accident Lawyers Help With My Claims?
While healing from terrible injuries after a Lyft accident, you may also have to file a claim and gather evidence to pursue compensation for your losses. These can be stressful procedures that could impede your rehabilitation. A lawyer can manage your case on your behalf. They can assist with your case and support your claim, so you can focus on yourself and your family.
We are a client-first law firm. For us, your overall well-being is important. When you decide to partner with us, we will support you from your initial consultation all the way through the entire legal process. As your case progresses, our lawyers can assist you with the following:
- Gathering claim proofs, including police reports, medical records, and other legal documents.
- Collecting secondary evidence like CCTV footage, eyewitness statements, and expert opinions.
- Communicating with the involved Lyft driver and their insurance company.
- Communicating with Lyft’s legal department and its insurance company.
- Connecting you with medical experts to assess the severity of your injury and document your pain and suffering.
Our San Diego Lyft accident attorneys will also prepare for court hearings should your case go beyond out-of-court settlements.
Why Hire Our San Diego Lyft Accident Lawyers To Manage Your Case
Arash Law not only cares about having your hospital bills paid, but we are also thinking about your future. That’s why we consider various aspects of your case, including your lost pay, property damage, present financial situation, and capacity to work after your accident. We appraise and calculate each of these factors. We can also investigate your case, collect essential evidence such as witness statements, and assist you in seeking compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Consulting with our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers can also help you avoid accepting inadequate settlement offers. Remember that the driver may not be solely accountable for your condition. Our personal injury lawyers can gather evidence to determine other potentially liable parties.
What Exactly Is Lyft?
Lyft is a well-known Transportation Network Corporation (TNC) based in the United States that provides an array of mobility services to commuters through its mobile app. Since its inception in 2012, the service has grown to be a significant player in the ride-hailing industry.
Primarily, Lyft offers customers vehicle rides, but it has recently expanded its services to include shared rides, luxury trips, and, in limited areas, scooter and bike rentals. The company aims to enhance people’s lives by providing convenient transportation solutions. It has become a popular choice due to its easy-to-use app interface and wide range of ride options.
People use Lyft as an alternative mode of transportation. Customers claim to save money on gas and car maintenance. They even claimed to feel relaxed in congested traffic. Meanwhile, younger users often use the app to avoid DUI situations.
You may be wondering if a Lyft accident is similar to a typical car collision. There may be some similarities, but Lyft cases are more complicated as numerous parties are involved. Our experienced legal team has managed Lyft-related cases both in and out of court. Our San Diego attorneys possess extensive knowledge of Lyft accident claims and lawsuits.
Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents In San Diego
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) highlighted 148 fatalities from distracted driving in 2022, making it among the common causes of car accidents in the state. The same can be said concerning Lyft accidents, which makes sense given that Lyft drivers spend time looking at the app on their phones for booking and maps.
Aside from distracted driving, our San Diego lawyers indicated other causes of Lyft accidents, including the following:
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
DUI is a driving offense in which an individual drives a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. It is prohibited to drive in San Diego and the rest of California if your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or greater. It is also a misdemeanor punishable by three to five years of probation and fines on the first offense. Drivers with subsequent offenses may get jail time.
Overdriving Road Conditions
Many people mistake an overdriving violation for a speeding violation. Even though there is a similarity in overspeeding and overdriving road conditions, a violation occurs when a driver exceeds the speed limit in the presence of hazardous road conditions. For example, if the maximum speed limit on California’s major highways is 65 mph, it is reduced to 10 mph during rainy weather for the safety of all motorists.
Inexperience
Lyft provides regular safety training for all of its drivers. However, training is only beneficial if it tackles understanding all traffic rules, navigating in all weather situations, and anticipating other drivers’ actions. Some young Lyft drivers may lack the necessary experience, which can lead to accidents. Our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers recommend checking their drivers’ ratings on the app. Their rating can show how experienced they are, contributing to a much safer trip.
Driving While Drowsy
Everyone needs to make extra money to support their families. Driving for Lyft is one of the common side hustles. However, working and driving without appropriate rest jeopardizes the passenger’s safety and is completely prohibited. Drowsiness can affect a driver’s reaction time and decision-making.
If you see your driver is constantly yawning, stretching his arms, and rotating his neck, politely ask him to drop you off at a secure spot, as a microsleep might lead to an accident.
Failure To Obey Traffic Rules
Familiarizing oneself with all traffic signs is one of the conditions for passing a driving test and obtaining a driver’s license. Unfortunately, some drivers tend to violate them for various reasons. They might overspeed, run the red light, or outright disobey traffic signs.
Other Causes Of Lyft Accidents & Injuries
Besides the usual accidents, our San Diego attorneys for Lyft accidents can also handle cases resulting from the following:
- Sexual Assault — Physical injuries are not the only issue ride-hailing passengers should be concerned about. In 2021, Lyft issued a comprehensive report revealing that passengers had filed over 4,000 sexual assault allegations against its drivers. Touching without consent is considered sexual harassment and must be dealt with legally. If you believe that you have recently been sexually harassed during a Lyft trip, speak with San Diego Lyft accident attorneys. They can guide you on how to proceed with your case.
- Violence — Physical harassment of any sort has no place in society. Not only does violence physically affect the victim, but it also inflicts long-term mental anguish. If a Lyft driver ever becomes violent towards you, San Diego Lyft accident lawyers can provide legal support. They can help you seek financial compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Our San Diego law firm has helped injured victims throughout the state. We can assist you if you’ve experienced any harm in a similar Lyft case.
Common Injuries In San Diego Lyft Accidents
Lyft patrons are susceptible to physical injuries when irresponsible drivers get into accidents. Whiplash or neck injuries are common among victims. Other injuries that are common in Lyft accidents are the following:
- Head & Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — These are severe injuries where the head suffers a sudden, hard blow. Severe cases may result in:
- Extreme headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Speech problems
- Dizziness
- Loss of balance
- Blurred vision
- Shoulder Injuries — When the shoulder dislocates, victims may feel shoulder, arm, back, or neck pain. Other symptoms include shoulder stiffness, arm weakness, limited range of motion, swelling, and bruising.
- Knee Injuries — Our knees are prone to bumping into the dashboard or back of the seats if a sudden stop or collision happens. There is often a popping sound when the knee is moved. Victims may also be unable to straighten it, and it might also be red and warm to the touch.
- Neck Injuries — The signs and symptoms of common neck injuries differ based on the area of the neck injured, but in general, victims may feel:
- Muscle spasms
- Inability to move the head
- Numbness or weakness
- Tingling sensations
- Pain that radiates in the arms and hands
- Back Injuries — These injuries are a common cause of disability worldwide. Some symptoms include pain that extends to the knees and legs, bowel or bladder problems, and muscle spasms.
- Broken Bones — Fractures range from minor hairline breaks to shattered bones. Seek medical attention as soon as you feel intense pain and a larger area of swelling or bruising.
If you sustain an injury from the accident, you might have a case. Our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers are experienced in handling rideshare accidents and can connect you with qualified medical professionals to support your medical care.
Establishing Liability After A San Diego Lyft Accident
A Lyft accident case can be complex. Multiple parties may share liability for your injuries, making it a challenging task to identify them. In order for you to establish liability, you have to demonstrate the following factors:
- The at-fault party has a responsibility to keep you safe while in their booked vehicle.
- They failed to safeguard you or uphold their duty of care through careless, reckless, or negligent actions.
- Their recklessness and negligence caused you physical pain and financial loss.
- There is proof that the Lyft accident the at-fault party caused was directly responsible for your injuries and financial losses. These pieces of evidence may support your claim:
- Accident reports
- Medical records
- Surveillance footage
- Video footage
- Accident scene photos
- Pictures of your body injuries
- Eyewitness statements
- Expert witness opinions
- Employment records
- A personal journal that describes your suffering
Our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers can assess liability for your physical injuries and mental trauma by collecting the evidence mentioned above and demonstrating potential negligence by the at-fault party.
Compensation In Lyft Accident Cases
If you got injured in a Lyft accident and sustained injuries, you may be able to pursue the following:
Economic damages are the total financial losses incurred as a result of your injuries, including:
- Past, present, and future medical expenses
- Treatment
- Therapy
- Caregiving bills
- Lost salary wages
- Inability to sustain your family’s needs
Non-economic damages include any non-physical and non-financial losses, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Lower life expectancy
- Bodily disfigurement or dismemberment
- Loss of enjoyment in life
- Loss of companionship
Non-economic damages may sound non-monetary at all, but they are reimbursable following some computations, such as the multiplier and per diem methods. Your San Diego Lyft accident attorneys can help you understand this matter. Our team can discuss possible compensation factors and the methods for assessing damages. Nevertheless, the outcome of each case relies on its particular circumstances.
Meanwhile, punitive damages are remedial penalties imposed by the judge on the defendant or accused to prevent him and others from engaging in the same misconduct in the future. Punitive damages can be non-monetary, but in some situations, the court orders the offender to pay monetary fines. However, note that punitive damages are rarely awarded.
Lyft’s Insurance Policy
The rideshare company’s insurance policy comes in two parts:
- The driver is on duty but has not accepted any bookings or passengers.
- The driver is on duty, has accepted a booking, and has picked up a passenger.
If the driver is off duty and is logged out of the app at the time of the accident (known as Period 0), the driver’s personal insurance policy will be the primary coverage.
Period 1
Lyft can be liable for damages if its driver was on duty (logged into the app) at the time of the accident, even if they didn’t have a passenger. This is often known as Period 1.
Lyft’s insurance policy for this period is:
- $50,000/person for bodily injury
- $100,000/accident for bodily injury
- $30,000/accident for property damage
Periods 2 & 3
The ridesharing company can also be held liable if its driver picked up a passenger and was en route to their location (Period 2) or was on a trip with a passenger (Period 3) during the accident.
For example, you are in your car, properly parked on the side of the road. Then, a Lyft driver who is on their way to pick up a passenger loses control of their vehicle and hits you. The driver can be held accountable for your injuries and vehicle damage.
Additionally, Lyft provides the following coverage:
- Up to $1 million for the total liability.
- Up to $1 million for accidents caused by uninsured and underinsured motorists.
- If a driver secures comprehensive and collision coverage on their personal motor policy, Lyft will maintain contingent comprehensive and collision coverage up to the car’s actual value ($2,500 deductible).
Many people may find Lyft’s insurance policy confusing or unclear. Our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers can clarify it for you. If you have any questions or concerns about this, our team is available to answer them.
Settlement in a Under Insured Motorist Claim against ride share company; client suffered spinal injuries– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
What Is My Lyft Accident Case Worth?
Every case is unique. Compensation varies from case to case based on the following factors:
- Types of injuries you sustained.
- The severity of your injuries.
- The impact of your physical injuries and mental trauma on your daily life.
- Your ability to provide for your family after the injury.
- Lyft’s offer and counteroffer.
Our attorneys in San Diego can evaluate it and provide an estimate of the potential compensation that may be available to you.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident In San Diego
When you get into an accident, whether you’re a Lyft passenger or hit by a Lyft vehicle, safety should be your priority. Protect your rights and future, and consider doing the following if you’re able:
- Check yourself for any possible injuries. Then, call 911 and ask for police and paramedics.
- Go to a safer area away from passing vehicles if possible. Don’t leave the scene and wait for the authorities.
- Get immediate medical assistance. After cooperating with the police and gathering evidence, visit a doctor promptly. Seeking additional medical attention can disclose the seriousness of your situation and unmask other potential injuries.
- Take photos or videos of your injuries, as these will be valuable evidence in your claim.
- Take a snapshot of the driver’s information from the Lyft app.
- Look for witnesses and get their names and phone numbers. Ask for their permission to provide a statement for documentation purposes.
- Report the accident using the “Help” feature on the Lyft app.
- Contact your insurance company and explain your situation. Do not admit fault. Everything you say to the other party or the authority can be used against you.
- Consult with our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers to begin the claims procedure.
An attorney can have a significant impact on your case. With our extensive experience, we can help you handle the insurance company and the rideshare giant. We are dedicated to helping you seek compensation for your losses. Connect with our Lyft accident attorneys in San Diego through our contact form.
How Long Do I Have To Bring Legal Action After A Lyft Accident In California?
Following a Lyft accident, it is recommended to file a claim promptly. The California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1 states that victims generally have two years starting from the date of the accident to file a case. This deadline is also called the statute of limitations.
There are some exceptions to this rule:
- For underage victims, if their guardians opt not to file the case immediately, they become eligible to pursue their claim when they reach the age of 18. The statute of limitations will start running by then.
- If your injury manifests later after the accident, you may be able to bring a case to court starting on the date your injury is reasonably discovered.
- If you sustained an injury on government property, you only have six months to file your claim to avoid technical forfeiture.
Two years may seem long, but the entire claim process takes time. The gathering of evidence alone can be time-consuming. Our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers can guide and assist you in gathering all the essential evidence and documents to file a case.
How Do I Find An Experienced Lyft Accident Attorney Near Me?
Finding Lyft accident attorneys in San Diego to work with is challenging. You have to look for someone who can provide you with quality legal assistance. With this, you have to consider these factors:
- Number of cases won.
- Number of satisfied clients.
- Amount of case winnings.
- Proven industry track record.
- Years of practice and handling of complicated cases.
- Focus on specific fields of law practice.
Arash Law has years of experience handling injury cases throughout California. We can handle rideshare accident cases, including those involving Lyft, and help you navigate the legal complexities associated with these types of cases.
Know if you have a valid claim. Use our “Do I Have A Case?” form, and one of our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers will get in touch with you.
Lyft Accident Statistics In San Diego
An independent and investigative report conducted by the San Francisco Free Press gives a picture of how Lyft and Uber drivers behave on the road, whether in San Francisco, San Diego, or other major cities in California.
According to the US National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), ridesharing services like Lyft have been associated with an increase of around 3% in road fatalities and injuries.
However, the bureau also released a study stating how these companies helped decrease cases of alcohol-related traffic in the US. Based on the paper, there was a decrease of 6.1% in alcohol-related accidents. A further 4% decrease in the overall number of US traffic collisions and crashes has also been noted.
FAQs About Lyft Accident Cases
What If An Insurer Calls Me?
Can Undocumented Immigrants Seek Compensation?
If you or someone you know is an immigrant injured in a Lyft collision, do not hesitate to contact Arash Law. Your status is not a factor in whether you can file a claim or not. In fact, it can’t be used to dispute your personal injury or wrongful death claim.
If English is not your first language, our firm can arrange translation services to assist you. Our San Diego attorneys handling Lyft accident cases offer a No-Win, No-Fee policy, meaning you don’t pay us unless we obtain compensation for you. Please note that, in addition to our lawyer’s fees, you may also be responsible for other case-related costs regardless of the outcome. We will help clarify our fee agreement during your case review to avoid any unexpected charges.
Contact Our San Diego Lyft Accident Lawyers For A Free Initial Case Review!
Arash Law can assist you in seeking just compensation for your injuries and losses. We will investigate your case to identify potentially liable parties and pursue damages against them. Our team can also help you determine the legal options available for you and your loved ones.
If you or someone you know got hurt in a Lyft accident, you may have a case. Call us at (888) 488-1391 and discuss your situation with one of our San Diego Lyft accident lawyers.
We also help victims of Lyft accidents in San Francisco, Sacramento, San Jose, Riverside, Sherman Oaks, Pasadena, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, Ramona, Poway, Lakeside, Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa, Spring Valley, Jamul, Bonita, Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, and Mesa Grande.
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