Tehama 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.
Tehama County Lyft Accident Lawyers Advocating For The Rights Of Injured Victims
Whether you want to get around Red Bluff or anywhere else in Tehama County, you can ride a Lyft with just a few taps on your phone. However, rideshares aren’t guaranteed to be safe. If you or someone you love gets injured or killed in a collision involving the rideshare company, our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers can help you pursue compensation. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 and discuss your case with our personal injury lawyers in Tehama County in a free initial consultation.
Along with providing a convenient alternative to public transportation, Lyft helps reduce the instances of drunk driving. Anyone who needs a safe ride home chooses to book a rideshare, which raises demand for the service. However, a rise in rideshare vehicles on the road may also mean an increased risk of accidents.
If you were injured in one, you may be able to seek compensation for your losses, depending on the situation. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Tehama County will advocate for your rights and represent your interests throughout the process.
How Our Tehama County Lyft Accident Lawyers Can Help
We help address the issues that may arise during the claims process, such as low settlement offers, delays, or denials. Our Lyft accident lawyers are committed to providing clear legal guidance and guiding you through each step of the process.
We understand the cost of negligence, recognizing the impact that an accident can have on a victim’s life. Our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers work to help you pursue compensation by:
- Determining your current losses and estimating the potential future costs resulting from the accident.
- Collaborating with medical professionals to obtain all necessary medical records, treatment plans, and other relevant documentation.
- Determining liability for the accident by working to help establish negligence.
- Investigating and gathering key pieces of evidence to build a well-supported case.
- Negotiating with Lyft and its insurance provider for your claim.
- Filing a lawsuit and advocating for your rights in court, if necessary.
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
Why Hire Our Lyft Accident Attorneys
We offer comprehensive legal services to help our clients pursue compensation from the at-fault parties. Our proactive approach to Lyft accident cases demonstrates our commitment to seeking accountability on behalf of our clients.
Here’s how our Tehama County injury law firm can help support your claim:
- Knowledge & Experience — Our lawyers are experienced and compassionate in handling the legal complexities of Lyft accidents. We have handled cases involving ridesharing companies and their insurance providers, leveraging our knowledge in rideshare and personal injury laws.
- Client-Focused Approach — We understand that each Lyft accident is unique, and we take a personalized approach to every case we handle. We will take the time to listen to you, understand your story, and prioritize your interests.
- No Upfront Costs — Our Tehama County Lyft accident attorneys believe that legal representation should be accessible to everyone. That is why we are proud to offer our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us attorneys’ fees upfront. You only pay for our services if your case results in a settlement or verdict. If there’s no compensation, you don’t have to pay us lawyers’ fees. Although we work on a contingency fee basis, clients may still be responsible for covering certain court costs or additional expenses, regardless of the outcome.
Available Damages In A Lyft Accident Claim
California laws allow accident victims to pursue monetary compensation after a personal injury. Here are some of the damages our Tehama County personal injury lawyers, handling Lyft accidents, can help you pursue:
- Ongoing medical bills and future expenses.
- Nursing and/or home care.
- Repair or replacement cost for damaged property.
- Loss of income, benefits, and future wages, and reduced earning capacity.
- Other out-of-pocket accident-related expenses.
- Physical pain and suffering or emotional distress.
- Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Temporary or permanent impairments and disabilities.
- Scarring and disfigurement.
- Loss of consortium, companionship, or support.
- Diminished or loss of enjoyment of life.
Juries award punitive damages in very rare instances where the defendant is established to have acted intentionally or with gross negligence. This type of award is intended to punish the at-fault party and deter others from engaging in similar behaviors, rather than compensating the victim. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Tehama County will thoroughly look at every aspect of your case to calculate your claim’s worth and help you pursue compensation based on your losses.
Hurt In A Lyft Accident?
Wrongful Death Damages
Our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers assist eligible families of the deceased in seeking compensation after a fatal accident. At Arash Law, we understand that no amount of money can ease the pain of losing a loved one in a tragic accident, but it can help families address the financial challenges after such a loss. If you lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, our team can assist you in identifying potentially liable parties and helping you hold the at-fault party accountable for the resulting damage.
We work to help you seek compensation for your losses through a wrongful death claim or lawsuit. The process is similar to personal injury claims, allowing the family to pursue the following damages:
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Medical expenses of the deceased before their untimely death.
- The future income of the deceased had they lived.
- Lost financial support and household services.
- Loss of consortium, love, and care provided by the deceased to their spouse.
Common Injuries In A Lyft Accident
Our car accident lawyers provide personalized legal representation, assisting clients in pursuing a claim for their injuries and losses following a crash. Our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence to help you seek compensation for the following injuries:
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Herniated discs, spinal cord damage, and other back injuries.
- Whiplash and neck injuries.
- Internal injuries, including internal bleeding and organ damage.
- Bruises and lacerations from broken glass, metal, and other debris.
- Soft tissue injuries.
- Bones, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
- Knee and shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff tears.
Seeking immediate medical care is critical, even if you don’t feel injured or you think your injuries are minor. Getting medical attention helps uncover any hidden injuries, while medical records can support your claim.
Insurance Coverage During Lyft Accidents
Lyft considers its drivers to be independent contractors. This classification can complicate insurance claims or lawsuits, as injured victims cannot simply hold the company accountable for the actions of its drivers. However, California law does mandate ride-hailing companies like Lyft to carry insurance policies for accidents that occur while the driver is logged into the app. The extent of insurance coverage varies based on the driver’s status.
Period 0
Period 0 is when the Lyft app is off, and the driver is inactive or using their vehicle for personal reasons. The driver’s auto insurance will cover any accidents that occur during this period. Lyft requires its drivers to have auto insurance that meets their state’s minimum coverage requirements. In California, the minimum required coverage is:
- $5,000 for property damage.
- $15,000 for injury/death to one person.
- $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
Period 1
This period starts when the driver has the app on and is waiting for a ride request from a passenger. This is when Lyft’s insurance starts to kick in. During this time, Lyft is required to provide the following coverage for accidents:
- $25,000 for property damage.
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death per person.
- $100,000 per accident.
Period 2
Period 2 refers to the time the driver is en route to a passenger’s location to pick them up after accepting their trip request. Lyft is required to provide liability coverage of up to $1 million for any accidents that occur during this time, including coverage for uninsured or underinsured motorists (UM/UIM).
Period 3
Lastly, Period 3 is when the Lyft driver picks up the passengers and transports them to their destination. If an accident happens during this period, Lyft is required to offer the same insurance coverage offered in Period 2.
If you’re unsure whether you have a case and which insurance coverage applies, our Tehama County lawyers who handle Lyft accidents can help evaluate your case. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents
Traffic accidents involving Lyft vehicles can cause bodily harm to anyone involved. Injured parties can include Lyft passengers, occupants of other vehicles, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
Lyft drivers are just like any other motorists on the road who are prone to making mistakes that could result in accidents and devastating consequences. If any of the situations discussed above apply to you or a loved one, our experienced Lyft accident attorneys in Tehama County can investigate the crash and determine the cause, which may be one or more of the following:
Distracted Driving
Lyft drivers need to use the app on their phones to monitor ride requests, track their progress, and navigate unfamiliar locations. This and other forms of distractions, such as eating or talking to passengers, can divert their focus from the road and potentially result in an accident.
Fatigue
Some drivers work longer hours to increase their earnings. They may even be driving for more than one ridesharing service simultaneously or are working other jobs. Lyft’s mandatory breaks for its drivers don’t guarantee they have enough rest before driving.
Reckless Driving
Lyft implements stringent safety protocols to help protect its passengers. Nonetheless, safety incidents involving verbal and physical altercations, harassment, and unprofessional conduct are being reported every year. Instances of road rage, speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and other forms of reckless or aggressive driving also remain a pressing concern.
Lack Of Maintenance
Lyft drivers can rack up more mileage in a shorter amount of time compared to the average driver. This makes their vehicles more prone to wear and tear, requiring constant check-ups and maintenance. Overheating, brake problems, tire blowouts, and other malfunctions can happen when a car is not regularly and properly maintained.
Other Causes
There are other contributing factors behind Lyft accidents. Some accidents may be caused by auto defects resulting from flaws in design or manufacturing. Lyft’s ineffective background check process for drivers may also contribute to accidents. The lack of due diligence in their recruitment process can inadvertently put their passengers’ safety at risk. Finally, poor road conditions, including potholes, inadequate lighting, malfunctioning traffic lights, and a lack of guardrails, are common risk factors.
Our Lyft accident lawyers in Tehama County can investigate and analyze the available evidence to piece together the events that led to the collision. To determine if you have a case, contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Establishing Negligence And Liability In A Lyft Accident
Finding the person responsible for your Lyft collision won’t be easy, as several parties may be involved. Our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers will work to identify potentially responsible parties, including the following:
- The Lyft driver may be held liable if their negligent actions caused the accident. Examples include speeding, driving while distracted, and making risky maneuvers.
- Third-party drivers can be found at fault for the same reasons above. You may be able to file a claim for damages with their insurance carrier, depending on the circumstances.
- Lyft itself may be held accountable if it fails to screen a driver with a history of bad driving or criminal activity, and that driver causes an accident.
- The manufacturer or distributor can be held liable if a defective vehicle or auto part causes your injury.
- The government agency responsible for road maintenance can be held liable if dangerous road conditions contribute to an accident.
To establish negligence, it’s crucial to demonstrate these four key elements:
- The responsible party has a legal obligation to act safely and responsibly. For example, your Lyft driver is required to follow safe driving practices.
- The at-fault party breached its duty. An example of a breach of duty is when the Lyft driver runs a red light or disregards traffic rules.
- The breach directly resulted in the accident that injured you.
- You suffered actual damages from the accident. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Tehama County can help collect evidence, such as medical bills, receipts, invoices, and other relevant documents, to help demonstrate these damages.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident In Tehama County
If you’re still conscious and able after a Lyft collision, there are certain steps you can take to help protect your well-being and potential claim, such as:
- Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Do not leave the scene.
- Call 911 for emergencies and request assistance from the police and medical responders.
- If you were driving when you got hit by a Lyft, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of the risk.
- Document the accident scene by taking photos of any relevant details and your injuries.
- Record the driver’s contact and insurance details and ask for the witnesses’ contact information, if available.
- Seek medical care, as it can help document your injuries and prevent them from getting worse.
- Reach out to our Tehama County Lyft accident attorneys for legal assistance. We can assist you in reporting the accident to Lyft and filing a claim on your behalf.
Evidence To Collect For A Lyft Accident Case
Evidence is crucial in calculating damages and establishing liability. Our Lyft rideshare accident lawyers in Tehama County can help you gather the necessary evidence for your case, including the following:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, injuries, and property damage.
- Footage from surveillance cameras and dashcams.
- Official police report.
- Accounts from eyewitnesses.
- Testimonies from expert witnesses.
- Medical records from your doctor.
- Pay stubs and tax documents showing financial losses.
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
Deadline For Filing Lyft Accident Injury Lawsuits In California
California’s statute of limitations gives accident victims two years from the date of the incident or discovery of the injury to bring a lawsuit and pursue damages. Eligible family members also have two years from the day their loved one died to submit a wrongful death lawsuit.
The statute may be tolled in certain cases, such as when the plaintiff is a minor or the defendant is out of state or mentally incapacitated. Our experienced Lyft accident lawyers in Tehama County can evaluate your case and help you file within the specified time frame, as missing this legal deadline could result in the loss of your ability to seek compensation.
Lyft & Rideshare Accident Statistics
Only 0.0002% of Lyft rides had safety problems from 2020 to 2022. This seemingly small percentage represents many safety incidents, considering Lyft had roughly two million active drivers who transported 20.3 million riders in the U.S. and Canada in 2022.
Lyft also reported 111 motor vehicle fatalities, an increase of 31% in incident frequency and 14% in vehicle miles traveled. In general, ridesharing is associated with a 3% annual increase in traffic fatalities (987 more deaths per year). As Lyft and ride-hailing continue to grow fast, we can expect these figures to rise. If you lost a loved one or got injured in a rideshare collision, speak with our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Pursue Compensation If I’m Partly At Fault For The Accident?
Yes, California’s pure comparative negligence rule allows you to seek damages even if you are found to be partially at fault for causing the accident. The catch is that the compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault you share. If your total award is $100,000 but you were found to be 30% at fault, you may only be able to pursue $70,000.
If you think you’re partially to blame for a rideshare accident, our Tehama County Lyft and Uber accident lawyers can help review your case and discuss possible options for your next steps.
How Much Is My Lyft Accident Claim Worth?
Various factors affect the potential value of your claim. Our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers will look at all these factors and work to evaluate the amount of compensation you may be able to pursue:
- The type and severity of your injuries.
- The type of medical treatment you receive and the duration of your recovery.
- Possible disabilities, scarring, and disfigurement.
- Whether your ability to return to work has been affected.
- Whether you are partially to blame for the accident.
- The available insurance coverage and policy limits.
Should I Accept Lyft’s Initial Settlement Offer?
Upon filing a claim for damages, the initial settlement offers usually do not take into account the full extent of the victim’s damages or pain and suffering.
Accepting the company’s first offer could result in compensation that is less than the actual value of your case. It’s important to remember that once a settlement offer is accepted, you may not be able to seek additional compensation for any future losses that may arise.
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to determine if an offer is reasonable?” Our Lyft accident attorneys in Tehama County are ready to support you through every step, including court proceedings if needed.
Do I Have To Take My Lyft Accident Case To Court?
The majority of personal injury claims are often settled outside of courtrooms. Negotiation can provide an opportunity to resolve your claim and seek compensation without the need for lengthy litigation. If a settlement cannot be reached, Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers may recommend filing a lawsuit. In some instances, this step may result in renewed settlement discussions.
How Long Does It Take To Resolve My Lyft Accident Case?
The complexity of the case, the extent of your injuries, the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate a fair payment, the possible dispute over liability, and other factors affect how quickly a Lyft accident case is resolved. A year or longer may pass before some cases are resolved, especially when it’s taken to court. Meanwhile, others are resolved in a matter of months.
Our Lyft accident attorneys in Tehama County can provide a more precise estimate. Contact us to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
Can I Submit A Lyft Accident Case As An Undocumented Immigrant In California?
Depending on the situation, you may be able to submit a Lyft accident case as an undocumented immigrant. In California, courts are not allowed to inquire about or hold a plaintiff’s immigration status against them in a personal injury case. If you get injured or your loved one is killed in a tragic accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to seek damages. Additionally, you can also request a translator to assist you in communicating during the legal process, helping you fully understand your rights and options. Our Tehama County Lyft accident attorneys work to advocate for your rights and represent your interests before the at-fault party, insurers, and, if applicable, the jury.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Lyft Accident Lawyer?
We understand that accidents can bring significant financial burdens for victims and their families. Our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning our fee is based on the outcome of your case. You don’t pay us attorneys’ fees unless you obtain compensation. However, certain court costs or other associated expenses may be your responsibility, regardless of the outcome. Our attorneys will outline this clearly in writing and address any questions or concerns you may have during your consultation.
Speak With Our Lyft Accident Lawyers Tehama County
Injured in a collision involving a Lyft vehicle? Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case” form here. We are ready to support you and help advocate for your rights throughout the claims process. Our Tehama County Lyft accident lawyers work to help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
Our Tehama County lawyers have helped accident victims across California in seeking accountability against responsible parties in a wide range of cases, including truck accidents and other personal injury claims. We also offer our services in neighboring locations, including Viola, Shingletown, Anderson, Cottonwood, Platina, Orland, Hamilton City, Chico, Artois, Willows, Glenn, Durham, Butte Valley, Paradise, and Magalia.
