Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara County Lyft Accident Lawyers Are Personally Committed To Securing Your Justice
Ridesharing services offer easy and safe on-demand transportation. However, they are not immune to road accidents. If you’re injured in one, our Santa Clara County Lyft accident lawyers will fight tooth and nail to obtain compensation for all your losses beyond a few hospital bills. Call (888) 488-1391 as soon as possible; we provide free initial consultations.
Santa Clara County is less than 60 miles away from San Francisco, the birthplace of the ride-hailing giant Lyft. Over the years, Lyft has become a popular transportation option in Santa Clara. It provides a simple and affordable way to get to work, run your errands, or travel anywhere else in the county.
Unfortunately, the rideshare service also sees its fair share of accidents that result in unimaginable pain and suffering to victims. If you’ve been injured in a Lyft accident, you need the best legal representation to get the justice and monetary compensation you deserve.
Arash Law is renowned for standing up to large corporations like Lyft. We tirelessly advocate for the rights and interests of injured victims. Discuss your case with us today and work with a legal team that truly cares.
Why Hire Arash Law Santa Clara County Lyft Accident Lawyers
Your days of searching in Google for “personal injury lawyers near me” are over. Our Santa Clara injury law firm provides quality legal services and representation at zero upfront fees. We offer the following:
- Legal Expertise — Our Lyft accident attorneys will use their extensive experience and knowledge of personal injury and ridesharing laws to determine liability. Afterward, we will craft a strong argument for your claim and pursue the full settlement you deserve.
- Personalized Strategy — We will take the time to hear your story, respond to your questions and concerns, and devise a legal strategy that suits your goals and needs. Our injury lawyers understand that every client is unique and requires personalized attention.
- Resources & Network — Our Lyft accident lawyers in Santa Clara County have the resources to examine your case thoroughly and ensure no detail is overlooked. To bolster your claim, we will tap our network to obtain expert testimonies from accident reconstructionists, medical specialists, and financial experts.
- No Fees Until We Win — We recognize the financial struggles of injured victims after an accident. This is why we take cases on a contingency basis. There are no upfront fees, as our payment is an agreed-upon percentage of the compensation we will recover for you. This way, you can focus your resources on your recovery.
- Track Record Of Success — Our team has won over $500 Million in settlements and awards, and we’re still winning. We are dedicated to helping and have the track record to prove it.
Gomez v. PG Transportation (settled on 8/11/2023) – settlement involving a man who was struck by a car resulting in a mild traumatic brain injury as well as other orthopedic injuries.
– TINA ESHGHIEH
Why Injured Victims Trust Our Santa Clara County Lyft Accident Lawyers
Our experienced Santa Clara County Lyft accident lawyers are committed to providing the best possible representation to help injured victims recover the compensation they deserve. With a strong track record of success and a focus on client care, we stand out in the legal field.
- Case Results — We consistently achieve outstanding results for our clients. Here are just a few examples of the victories we’ve secured:
- $1,550,000 — Our client was injured in a motorcycle accident involving a rideshare company, suffering spinal and wrist injuries. We were able to secure a substantial settlement, which became the largest motorcycle settlement in Tulare County in 2021.
- $1,125,000 — Our client suffered a low back injury from a rideshare incident. We recovered a large indemnity even though our client lived in Colorado.
- Unparalleled Customer Service — We don’t just win cases; we provide exceptional service and ensure that every client feels valued throughout the process. Here’s what they’ve said:
- “They are really great! I worked with other attorneys in the past and never received this type of professional representation. This office really cares about their clients. Thank you so much!” — Lene B.
- “They took care of me like I was family and really kept me informed throughout the whole process! Would highly recommend!” — David N.
- “It is hard to find lawyers that are honest and so down to earth yet have top-of-the-line knowledge. It has been great working with you.” — Jaycob R.
The skilled lawyers at Arash Law are the trusted choice for Lyft accident victims in Santa Clara County. Don’t delay seeking justice and recovery. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to start your journey.
How Our Lyft Accident Attorneys Can Help You
Our Santa Clara County Lyft accident lawyers help injured victims pursue the monetary compensation they’re owed by building a compelling Lyft accident case to prove the responsible party’s negligence. We leverage our extensive knowledge and experience to your advantage, assisting you in the following ways:
- We will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to determine who is responsible for your Lyft accident. Our lawyers will collect police reports, photographic and video evidence, eyewitness statements, and other crucial evidence.
- Our attorneys will determine how much compensation you may be entitled to receive. A few medical bills don’t exactly show the full extent of your damages and suffering. You could also get compensated for lost income, property damage, and emotional pain.
- Our Lyft accident lawyers know the ins and outs of Lyft’s insurance policies. We will negotiate for the maximum settlement possible. Our team will protect you from lowball offers and dirty tactics to reduce your payout.
- Arash Law is ready to take legal action and represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached during negotiations. Our Lyft accident attorneys are not intimidated by Lyft and big insurance companies and will face them head-on to maximize your recovery.
Lyft’s Insurance Policy
In California, employers are responsible for their employees’ negligence on the job, but Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees, complicating liability in accidents. Despite this, Lyft and similar companies must have insurance policies covering accidents with their drivers, with coverage details depending on the driver’s app status during the incident. Understanding these policies and determining which applies to a specific case often requires the expertise of specialized Lyft accident lawyers in Santa Clara.
Period 0
Accidents that happen during Period 0, when the driver is not logged into the Lyft app, are covered by the driver’s auto insurance, not by Lyft’s insurance. Your Santa Clara Lyft accident attorneys can help you file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Lyft requires its drivers to carry an auto insurance policy meeting minimum coverage limits set by the state. In California, the minimum requirements are:
- $15,000 for injury or death to one person.
- $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person.
- $5,000 for property damage.
Period 1
Period 1 starts when the Lyft driver logs into the app, indicating they’re ready for a ride request but have no pick-up request yet. Lyft provides the following coverage for accidents during this period:
- $25,000 for property damage.
- $50,000 for injury per person.
- $100,000 for injury per accident.
Period 2
During Period 2, when a Lyft driver is en route to pick up a passenger and gets into an accident, Lyft offers $1 million in liability coverage. Our Santa Clara attorneys aim to maximize your claim by considering all losses.
Period 3
Period 3 begins when the passenger enters the Lyft vehicle and continues until the end of the ride. Coverage for accidents during this period is the same as in Period 2.
It’s crucial to remember that Lyft’s insurance only covers accidents that happen when the driver is online and working for the company. It’s also dependent on the driver retaining their auto insurance policy.
Contact our experienced Santa Clara Lyft accident lawyers as soon as possible. We’ll help you navigate these complex rideshare regulations successfully.
Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents In Santa Clara, CA
The factors behind most Lyft accidents are the same as other car accidents, with driver error being the leading cause. It’s essential to understand these causes in order to pinpoint the liable party accurately. Our Santa Clara lawyers specializing in Lyft accidents have identified the following common factors:
Phone Usage & Other Distractions
Our Santa Clara Lyft accident lawyers highlight that Lyft accidents can occur due to distracted driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that not looking at the road for even five seconds at 55 mph is equivalent to driving blind for the distance of a football field. Distractions can include eating, talking to passengers, reaching for objects, or external distractions. Particularly for Lyft drivers, using their phones to navigate the app for ride requests and directions poses a significant risk.
Fatigued Driving
Lyft mandates a six-hour break for drivers after every 12 hours of driving to prevent drowsy driving accidents. However, this policy doesn’t consider drivers’ potential exhaustion from other jobs, posing a risk on the road. In case of an accident, our Santa Clara Lyft accident attorneys can access driving logs to demonstrate a driver’s fatigue as a contributing factor.
Driving Under The Influence
Reckless Driving
Reckless Lyft drivers might speed or tailgate, increasing accident risks by losing control or not having enough time to react to sudden stops. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Santa Clara have successfully dealt with such cases, offering legal help for those wanting to pursue claims or lawsuits against such drivers.
Lack Of Maintenance
Lyft vehicles must be from 2008 or newer and free from salvage titles. They undergo inspections for safety. However, due to frequent use, they may experience more wear and tear. To mitigate this, Lyft collaborates with body shops for maintenance and diagnostics. Despite these efforts, not all drivers may adhere to regular vehicle maintenance, potentially leading to issues like tire blowouts or worn brake pads that could cause accidents.
Failure To Yield
Our Lyft accident lawyers in Santa Clara have seen many types of road accidents. Sadly, plenty of these were caused by drivers who refuse to yield the right of way. Like other motorists, Lyft drivers must always yield to pedestrians. A distracted Lyft driver might miss a pedestrian crossing the street. Young children, in particular, might be unable to see the approaching vehicle or react quickly enough to avoid it.
Inclement Weather & Poor Road Conditions
Inclement weather can lead to slick roadways. Drivers must adjust their driving accordingly or risk losing control of their vehicles. Moreover, the low visibility caused by heavy rain might affect the driver’s vision.
Poor road conditions, including potholes, road defects, and debris from construction zones, also contribute to Lyft accidents. Inclement weather worsens these conditions, further increasing the risk of accidents. Our car accident lawyers in Santa Clara who handle Lyft collisions will ensure that the government agency in charge of road maintenance is held accountable for your injuries and damages.
Hurt in a Lyft Accident?
Injuries Typically Sustained By Lyft Accident Victims
In a collision with a Lyft vehicle, all drivers, passengers, and other road users involved could sustain moderate to catastrophic injuries. The list below includes the common injuries that our Santa Clara personal injury lawyers have assisted victims in recovering compensation for:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — TBIs can greatly affect a personal injury claim due to potential lifelong effects like memory disorders and cognitive impairment. The injury’s severity may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, potentially increasing the compensation amount.
- Neck & Back Injuries — Injuries like whiplash from a rear-end collision can lead to chronic pain and long-term medical care. These injuries can affect your ability to work and perform daily activities, which are critical factors in determining the value of your claim.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Spinal cord injuries can result in permanent paralysis, dramatically altering the victim’s life. The extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and potential need for lifelong assistance make these injuries a significant component of a personal injury claim, often leading to higher compensation demands.
- Fractures & Joint Damage — Broken bones and joint damage can cause severe pain and immobility, impacting your ability to work and enjoy life. These injuries often require surgery and long-term rehabilitation, which are considered when calculating your compensation.
- Burn Injuries — Severe burns from accidents can lead to permanent scarring, disfigurement, and lung damage from smoke inhalation. The extensive treatment and potential for lifelong physical and emotional impact make burn injuries a critical factor in Lyft accident claims, often resulting in substantial compensation.
Potentially At-Fault Parties In A Lyft Accident
Victims must first identify the at-fault party to pursue compensation. Identifying who was negligent would seem straightforward, but a thorough investigation might reveal that the situation is more complicated. Our Santa Clara County Lyft accident attorneys will look at your case to determine the party at fault, which could be one or more of the following:
- Lyft Driver — Your safety as a passenger primarily depends on your driver. Lyft drivers must drive carefully to prevent accidents. However, Lyft drivers are prone to distractions, fatigue, and other issues that increase the risk of an accident.
- Lyft Company — The company can be held liable in certain cases. These include failing to thoroughly check a driver’s background before hiring, ignoring a driver’s criminal record, retaining an unsafe driver (such as after a DUI), and failing to provide adequate safety training.
- Third-Party Driver — Even if the Lyft driver is driving safely, a Lyft accident could still happen due to the negligence of other drivers. Driver error puts all vehicles on the road in danger.
- Manufacturer, Inspectors, Or Mechanics — Auto defects caused by design or manufacturing flaws lead to many accidents. In these cases where even the safest driver is powerless to stop, the manufacturer could be liable regardless of fault. Likewise, vehicle mechanics or inspectors can be held liable if their poor repair work caused the accident.
- Local Government — A government agency might be liable if unsafe road conditions or inadequate road maintenance caused the Lyft accident. It might have failed to fulfill its responsibility to repair malfunctioning traffic signals, potholes, and other hazardous obstructions. Our Lyft accident attorneys are equipped to handle cases involving the government that require a different process.
How To Prove Negligence In A Lyft Accident Case
Hiring our Santa Clara County injury lawyers specializing in Lyft accidents helps you focus on getting better and feel less stressed. More importantly, it puts you in the best position to get the maximum compensation possible. To collect a settlement, your Lyft accident attorney must first prove the responsible party’s negligence by establishing the following:
- The at-fault party owed you a legal duty of care. A Lyft driver, for instance, must ensure your safety as a passenger by driving safely and obeying all traffic rules.
- The at-fault party breached this duty. For example, your Lyft driver ran a red light at an intersection and caused a T-bone collision with another vehicle.
- The accident directly resulted from the at-fault party’s actions or inaction.
- The accident resulted in actual losses and damages.
Important Evidence To Gather For A Lyft Accident Case
To establish the at-fault party’s negligence and your losses, you need evidence. It must be proven that their breach of duty caused the accident and that you suffered actual damages. Here are crucial pieces of evidence your lawyer can collect to back up your Lyft accident case:
- Official police report and medical records.
- Pictures and videos of the accident scene, including footage from traffic cameras and dashcams, if available.
- Testimonies from witnesses and experts.
- Citations or arrests for texting while driving, driving while intoxicated, speeding, or similar violations.
- Driver data and logs from the Lyft app.
Our Lyft accident attorneys in Santa Clara County know where to collect and how to use evidence to prove negligence. Contact our legal team now to learn about the merits of your case and options for pursuing compensation.
Damages Victims Can Recover After A Lyft Accident
Accurately predicting how much money you will receive in a settlement or award is nearly impossible. Nevertheless, our traffic accident lawyers handling Lyft accident cases in Santa Clara County can fairly estimate the value of your case.
You can receive compensatory damages in California to “make you whole again.” These damages are classified into economic and non-economic. Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses, while non-economic damages are intangible losses that are harder to calculate. These damages include:
- Current and future medical expenses, including surgery, hospitalization, medications, and ongoing care.
- Lost wages from missed work.
- Reduced or loss of earning capacity due to temporary or permanent disability.
- Repair or replacement costs for property damage.
- Any other out-of-pocket expenses.
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of consortium or companionship.
- Reduced or loss of quality of life.
- Mental or emotional trauma, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Wrongful death damages.
Each case is unique, so this list is not exhaustive and only shows the most common damages accident victims can recover. Other factors could raise the total compensation you can recover after a rideshare collision. Our Lyft and Uber accident lawyers can answer any questions you may have about what you can and cannot claim in your personal injury case. Contact us now for a free consultation.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident In Santa Clara County
Getting injured in a Lyft accident can leave you feeling confused, not knowing what to do next. In these situations, it’s important to remain calm to ensure your well-being and protect your rights. Our Lyft accident lawyers in Santa Clara County encourage you to take the following steps if you’re still able:
- Ensure safety by moving to a safe location (without leaving the scene). Call 911 and request for police officers and medical responders. When talking to the police, state what happened and don’t make assumptions.
- Start gathering evidence. Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, damage to all vehicles involved, and relevant details like skid marks and the weather. Collect witnesses’ contact details and the other party’s insurance information.
- Have yourself medically evaluated at the scene and a hospital later. Let your doctor assess you, even if you feel fine or think your injuries are minor. It’s critical to undergo a thorough checkup to rule out major issues. Strictly follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
- Don’t discuss the accident with anyone other than the authorities. The other parties and insurance companies will look for anything they can use to justify underpaying you. Avoid posting details on social media for the same reason.
- Don’t accept settlement offers without legal counsel. Similarly, avoid signing documents or making recorded statements when dealing with insurers. Initial settlement offers are often designed to be favorable to the insurance company. Without legal representation, you may unknowingly settle for much less than you deserve.
- Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391. Our Lyft accident lawyers in Santa Clara County will do what it takes to ensure maximum compensation, whether at the negotiation table or inside the courtroom.
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
Statute Of Limitations For Lyft Accident Cases
The statute of limitations sets the maximum time frame for injured victims to bring legal action. In California, the statute of limitation for personal injury lawsuits is two years from the accident date or discovery of the injury. Therefore, you only have two years to bring a case for damages against the party at fault, starting from the date of the accident or the day you discovered or should have discovered your injuries. The deadline may be tolled if the case involves:
- A minor
- A mentally incapacitated defendant
- An out-of-state defendant
You might forfeit your right to bring a case and obtain damages if you fail to file within the timeframe. The court can dismiss your case upon the defendant’s motion. Working with seasoned Lyft accident attorneys in Santa Clara County as soon as possible ensures you don’t miss the deadline. Give them enough time to investigate the accident and build a case against the responsible party.
Lyft Accident Statistics
According to the company’s latest report covering 2020 to 2022, safety incidents involving Lyft occurred in only 0.0002% of rides. The report also stated that 111 motor vehicle fatalities occurred, which is a 14% rise in vehicle miles traveled and a 31% rise in incident frequency.
The rideshare company has nearly two million active drivers, transporting 20.3 million riders in 2022 in the U.S. and Canada. As ridesharing services become the norm in transportation, more and more accidents resulting in fatalities and injuries are also being reported.
A 2019 University of Chicago study found that ridesharing is correlated with a 3% annual increase in traffic deaths nationwide. That percentage translates to roughly 987 deaths per year. With Lyft growing by the minute, these figures are expected to rise in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do I Need A Lawyer For My Lyft Accident Case?
You can manage a Lyft accident case on your own. Hiring a lawyer may seem unnecessary for minor accidents. However, having a Lyft accident attorney represent you will greatly increase your chances of receiving just compensation. The other party will take your case more seriously if you have a lawyer. This is especially true when the party you’re seeking to hold liable has a legal team working to protect them from liability.
Hiring Santa Clara County Lyft accident attorneys also means you have someone experienced and knowledgeable on your side. The legal system is often complex and overwhelming; you need someone to guide you to a favorable outcome.
How Much Compensation Can I Get For My Lyft Accident Claim?
Many factors affect the amount of compensation you can claim. These include the extent of your injuries, possible lifelong impairments or disability, and the complexity of your case. Our skilled injury attorneys handling Lyft accident cases in Santa Clara can calculate your losses to their full extent. They will fight for the highest possible settlement to cover all your losses and damages.
Can I Get Compensation If I Was Partially Responsible For The Lyft Accident?
California’s pure comparative negligence rule allows you to recover damages even if you share responsibility for the accident. Comparative negligence allocates liability to all involved parties. If you’re proven to have contributed to the accident, your total compensation will be reduced according to your share of liability. That means if your total award is $100,000 but you’re found to be 20% at fault, you will receive $80,000.
The defendant might exaggerate your share of liability to reduce the amount they have to pay. Our Santa Clara County lawyers who won Lyft accident cases will ensure you’re not unfairly blamed, maximizing your financial recovery.
What Happens If The Lyft Driver Was At Fault For The Accident?
If the Lyft driver is found to have caused the accident, they would have to pay for the damages that result from it. In the claims process, it is important to understand the period in which the accident occurred. The Lyft driver’s status on the application plays a huge role in identifying whether their personal or the rideshare’s insurance policy is applicable.
If they were offline on the Lyft app at the time of the accident, their insurance will cover the accident. If they caused the collision while transporting a passenger or traveling to pick up one, Lyft’s insurance coverage would apply. You will need good Lyft accident attorneys in Santa Clara to prove the driver’s negligence and liability for your injuries.
How Does The Claims Process Generally Work For Lyft Accidents?
Typically, the claims process for Lyft accidents starts when you report the accident to Lyft. This can be done through the Lyft app or by calling their customer service line. Next, you need to obtain evidence, document your losses, and build your case. Santa Clara County Lyft accident lawyers can help you with this step.
After gathering all the necessary evidence, your attorney will prepare and file a claim on your behalf. They will handle all communication with the insurance companies, including negotiating a settlement or litigating if necessary.
Should I Settle My Lyft Accident Claim Or Take It To Court?
Most Lyft accident claims are settled out of court, though some are filed as formal lawsuits. A settlement helps you avoid the risk of losing everything in court. More importantly, it’s often a faster way to resolve disputes and obtain compensation.
However, the opposite party’s insurance provider might keep lowballing you or refuse to provide the full amount you deserve. In such instances, taking your case to court with the help of trusted Lyft accident attorneys would be necessary. Also, presenting your case before a judge could result in a larger settlement.
Can I Sue Lyft For My Accident?
Suing Lyft for an accident might be possible under certain conditions. Your Lyft accident lawyer might be able to prove that the rideshare giant failed to check a driver’s record comprehensively before hiring or neglected to provide adequate safety training and measures. In this case, you could bring a lawsuit against the company and pursue damages for your injuries and losses.
Remember that big corporations have a powerful legal team defending them when considering such actions. You need a formidable legal representative to level the playing field and advocate for your interests. Consult with our Santa Clara County lawyers specializing in Lyft accidents now.
Who Can File A Personal Injury Claim After A Lyft Accident?
Anyone residing in California can file a claim or lawsuit and recover damages after an accident. Even if you’re undocumented, you can claim compensation for your injuries or the wrongful death of a loved one, regardless of their immigration status. The law doesn’t allow the opposite party to use your immigration status to deny or dispute your claim.
Santa Clara County houses a diverse community of immigrants from Vietnam, China, India, and other countries. In fact, the county has a large Hispanic and Asian American population. This diversity is reflected in the law, which doesn’t discriminate against individuals based on their race, age, education, gender identity, or socioeconomic status. All injured victims, regardless of their background, are entitled to seek justice and fair compensation.
Can You Help Me If I Don’t Speak English?
If you can’t speak English fluently, or it’s not your first language, we have a multilingual staff who can speak every major language, including French, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin, Korean, and more. They can help you translate conversations on the phone or in person, medical appointments, depositions, and court hearings. There are no upfront costs for these services.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Lyft Accident Lawyer In Santa Clara County?
Some attorneys charge hourly fees for their legal services. Our Lyft accident lawyers in Santa Clara County take cases on contingency. This arrangement entails no upfront fees, meaning you can access quality legal services and representation at $0 upfront. Our payment will be an agreed-upon percentage of the compensation we can obtain for you.
By eliminating the initial financial burden, you can seek legal representation without worrying about your ability to afford it. At the same time, we are motivated to work harder to obtain the maximum possible amount for your case.
Seek Help From The Lyft Accident Lawyers Santa Clara County Trusts
A Lyft accident doesn’t have to be your problem to handle alone, especially when it’s not your fault. At Arash Law, injured accident victims always come first. Our Santa Clara County Lyft accident lawyers, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., will not hesitate to demand financial compensation from the liable party, even if it’s a powerful company like Lyft.
To our attorneys, your case is not just another claim to manage; it’s a personal battle to help you get back on your feet. Schedule a free, no-strings-attached consultation by calling (888) 488-1391 or completing our “Do I Have A Case?” form. From commercial truck accidents to slip-and-fall cases, our Santa Clara County lawyers have you covered.
Our Lyft accident lawyers serve Santa Clara County’s neighboring cities and communities. These include Logan, Aromas, San Juan Bautista, Hudner, Hollister, Dunnerville, Fremont, Newark, East Palo Alto, Redwood City, Woodside, Portola Valley, San Gregorio, Pescadero, Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond, Scotts Valley, Pasatiempo, Santa Cruz, Capitola, Corralitos, Freedom, and Watsonville.