Tuolumne County Lyft Accident Lawyers
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Every Person Who Walks Through Our Door Is Important To Our Tuolumne County Lyft Accident Lawyers.
Are you injured in a Lyft accident and unsure what to do next? Reach out to our Tuolumne County Lyft accident lawyers for expert guidance. Call (888) 488-1391 to discuss your situation with our award-winning team.
Since Lyft’s introduction in Tuolumne County, it has provided locals and tourists with a convenient alternative to public transportation. They can get a ride with just a few taps on their smartphone, eliminating the hassle of waiting for the bus to arrive. However, this convenience can come at a cost. When you get into a Lyft, you’re placing your safety in the hands of a stranger. Unfortunately, no one can guarantee safety. Accidents can happen anytime and anywhere.
When a Lyft ride goes wrong, put your trust in Arash Law. Our Tuolumne County attorneys for Lyft accident victims prioritize your well-being and best interests. Let us know about your needs and goals, and we’ll develop a tailored strategy to achieve them.
Why You Need Tuolumne County Lyft Accident Lawyers
Lyft accidents can be challenging to handle due to complex insurance policies, unique rideshare policies, and Lyft’s involvement. Getting help from expert lawyers allows you to navigate these issues effectively and boosts your chances of a successful outcome. With their help, you can avoid the confusion that comes with the claims process. They’ll manage the necessary tasks on your behalf, including:
- Preparing the necessary paperwork and filing a personal injury claim.
- Communicating and negotiating with insurance companies for a higher settlement.
- Reaching out to witnesses and getting their testimonies.
- Collecting evidence that can be difficult to obtain, such as CCTV or dashcam footage, the Lyft driver’s app and phone data, and more.
To ensure these tasks are handled efficiently, hire the best Tuolumne County Lyft accident lawyers. We will guide you through each stage of the process and ensure you’re well-informed of your rights and options. You can be confident that your case is in good hands.
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
Choosing the right lawyers to represent you can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. If you want to get favorable results, look no further than our Lyft accident lawyers in Tuolumne County. Arash Law has consistently delivered exceptional legal representation, earning a reputation as one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California.
Here are other reasons our Lyft accident lawyers are trusted in the industry:
- Our Tuolumne County law firm fought and won against large corporations before, and we have the capability and resources to do it again.
- We’ve secured over $500 Million for our clients, allowing them to get their lives back on track.
- Our attorneys don’t take the easy way out. We’ll go through the route that can give us the outcome you want, even if we have to go to court.
- We go above and beyond for our clients. If English is not your mother tongue, we can provide interpreters and translators. This ensures your voice is properly heard and you fully understand your situation.
Have some questions or legal concerns? We have answers. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Establishing Negligence In Lyft Accident Claims
One of the most important tasks of our Tuolumne County Lyft accident lawyers is ensuring you have a solid case. This involves demonstrating the four elements of negligence:
- Duty Of Care — In the context of Lyft accidents, Lyft drivers are obligated to exercise the utmost care to ensure the safety of their passengers. They also have a duty of care towards other road users and pedestrians, requiring them to act as a reasonably prudent person would. This includes adhering to traffic laws, maintaining vehicle safety, and avoiding reckless or distracted driving behaviors. Additionally, Lyft must perform background checks on drivers and ensure their app and systems do not contribute to unsafe conditions.
- Breach Of Duty — A breach of duty in Lyft accidents happens when a driver or Lyft doesn’t uphold the required care standards. For instance, a driver texting and causing a crash or Lyft not deactivating a driver with numerous reckless driving complaints leading to an accident both demonstrate a breach of duty.
- Causation — In Lyft accidents, proving causation involves showing that the rideshare driver’s or Lyft’s breach of duty directly caused the accident and the claimant’s injuries. This may include demonstrating that the accident wouldn’t have occurred without the driver’s distraction or Lyft’s failure to act on complaints about the driver. Establishing causation can be difficult, particularly when other factors contributed to the accident.
- Damages — Damages in the context of Lyft accidents cover the financial and non-financial losses suffered by the victims. This can include medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs, as well as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
Failure to establish these elements can render your claim invalid. Having our experienced personal injury lawyers prove negligence is key to obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Hurt In A Lyft Accident?
Common Causes Of Lyft Accidents
Once we take on your case, our Tuolumne County Lyft accident attorneys will launch an extensive investigation to identify the cause of your crash. Understanding what happened can help determine who should be held responsible for your damages.
Here are some of the most common factors that can contribute to Lyft accidents:
- Driver Errors — Lyft drivers and third-party drivers are as prone to making mistakes as any other motorist on the road. For example, they could get into a rear-end accident if they fail to notice the driver in front has stopped because they were distracted. They might also cause accidents by:
- Running red lights.
- Driving too fast for the conditions.
- Falling asleep at the wheel.
- Driving under the influence.
- Engaging in road rage.
- Reckless merging and overtaking.
- Lyft’s Negligence — The company itself could breach its duty of care to its customers by failing to implement safety measures properly, hiring a driver without performing a background check, and more.
- Vehicle Breakdowns — Malfunctions can occur due to bad product design, manufacturing errors, or poor maintenance. Tire blowouts, brake failure, or steering wheel issues can lead to loss of control of the vehicle, potentially leading to an accident.
- Dangerous Road Conditions — Poor road design, potholes, debris from road construction, insufficient signage, and broken traffic lights could contribute to traffic crashes. For instance, the poor condition of Tuolumne Road has already resulted in significant property damage. Sections of the pavement are crumbling, creating hazardous conditions that could easily lead to injury-causing collisions.
The Responsible Parties In An Accident
After the cause(s) have been identified, we will trace them to the individual or company that should be held accountable. Here are some potentially responsible parties:
- The Lyft driver
- Lyft, Inc.
- Another driver
- The vehicle manufacturer
- The property owner
- The government
In some situations, multiple parties can be responsible for an accident. This is where the concept of comparative negligence comes in. Each party will be investigated for their level of contribution to the incident, which will then determine how much they owe you. If you’re partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Identifying liability, assigning fault, and holding the liable parties accountable for rideshare and other car accidents require legal expertise. Our Tuolumne County Lyft accident lawyers will take charge of these complex issues on your behalf. We are committed to securing fair remuneration for your injuries and other losses.
Lyft’s Insurance Coverage For Accident Victims
If the Lyft driver is at fault for your injury, you may be eligible to file a claim against their auto insurance, Lyft’s third-party liability coverage, or both. The applicable policy and coverage depend on the driver’s status on the app:
- Logged Out — If the accident occurred while the driver is not logged into the Lyft app, their auto insurance policy is responsible for paying you. Lyft doesn’t provide coverage during this time.
- Logged In With No Active Booking — If the driver has logged in but is still waiting for a ride request, Lyft provides limited coverage of $50,000 per person or $100,000 per accident for bodily injury. For property damage, the limit is $30,000. These apply to damages not covered by the driver’s policy.
- Accepted A Ride — After the driver clicks accept and starts driving toward the pick-up point, they’re covered by Lyft’s $1 million policy. A driver, pedestrian, or any person who gets injured in an accident caused by a Lyft driver may be entitled to file a claim.
- Picked Up The Rider — The same $1 million coverage remains in effect once the ride is in progress.
Hire a lawyer who can handle this complex system on your behalf. Talk to our Tuolumne Lyft accident attorneys. We are here to address any concerns you may have and provide expert guidance throughout the claims process.
Recoverable Damages In A Claim
If you’re injured in a Lyft accident caused by someone else, you may be eligible to seek compensation. The amount is based on the losses you incurred and how they affected your finances, emotional well-being, or lifestyle. Some examples of damages you can receive are:
- Medical expenses, including any surgery, therapy, or treatments needed.
- Lost income from being unable to work while recovering.
- Potential future earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work for an extended period or permanently.
- Repair or replacement of damaged property, like your car, smartphone, or other personal items damaged in the accident.
- The physical pain and suffering you’re going through due to your injuries.
- The anxiety, mental anguish, depression, and other emotional or psychological trauma arising from the accident.
- Inability to enjoy previous hobbies, particularly if you were disabled due to the Lyft accident.
- Loss of independence, strained relationships, and damage to social reputation.
There is no set amount for each loss, as injuries can affect individuals differently. For example, the impact of a broken wrist varies from one person to another. One person with lower pain tolerance may experience significant discomfort and require more medications, while another may manage with minimal treatment. Additionally, some people may find it impossible to do their jobs with an injured wrist, while others may be able to continue working with a few minor adjustments.
These variations make it challenging to assess damages, as they depend not only on the injury itself but also on the individual’s unique circumstances. To ensure your claim is evaluated fairly, turn to our Lyft accident attorneys in Tuolumne County. Our team will work diligently to secure a settlement or award that accounts for the full impact of your injuries on your life.
What To Do After A Lyft Accident
Try to stay calm so you can better protect your safety and rights. Here are the immediate steps you should take:
- Check yourself for injuries.
- If you can, move to a safer area, away from any immediate danger.
- Call 911 for emergency help. Cooperate with the police and EMTs after they arrive.
- Exchange information with other involved parties, including the Lyft driver. Note important details like their name, address, phone number, driver’s license, and insurance policy info.
- If there are any witnesses, politely ask if they can provide a statement to the police. Request their contact details as well.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the road conditions, weather, debris from the accident, and property damage.
Consult A Doctor
Once you’ve taken the appropriate steps at the scene, seek further medical attention. Some injuries don’t have obvious or concerning symptoms. Sometimes, a headache isn’t just a headache; it could indicate a brain injury, a common consequence of traffic accidents. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications.
Moreover, going to a doctor creates a medical record that details the type of injuries you sustained, the date you came in for an evaluation, and recommended treatments. Our Tuolumne County lawyers can use this as evidence that the Lyft accident caused your injuries and prove the extent of damages you incurred.
Contact An Injury Law Firm
Call (888) 488-1391 to speak with our team. Our Tuolumne County Lyft accident attorneys offer complimentary consultations. For a more productive conversation, we recommend bringing anything that can help us understand your situation better, including:
- Photos and videos of the accident.
- A copy of your police report, if you have it.
- Your medical reports, doctor’s notes, and records related to your injuries.
- Repair or replacement estimates for damaged property.
- A journal documenting your recovery, pain, inconveniences, and suffering you’ve experienced.
- Receipts, bills, and other financial documents.
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
The Deadline For Filing A Lyft Accident Claim
In general, you have two years from the date of the accident to initiate a claim. This deadline is outlined in California’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases, which also specifies some exceptions. For example, if you discovered your injuries late, the clock will start ticking from the date you discovered (or should have reasonably discovered) your injuries.
If you miss the two-year window, you may not be able to claim compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages. If you don’t want to miss your chance, consult our Lyft accident lawyers in Tuolumne County right away.
Rideshare Accident Statistics
As ridesharing services have grown in popularity, the safety risks on the road have also increased. A previous study by the University of Chicago found a correlation between their introduction and a roughly 3% rise in traffic-related fatalities.
Lyft’s latest data also shows an increase in motor vehicle deaths reported on the platform. Previously, it recorded 105 fatalities or a fatality rate of 0.76 per 100 million miles traveled from 2017 to 2019. This increased to 111 deaths between 2020 and 2022, raising the fatality rate to 0.85.
These are not just numbers. They reflect lives lost in preventable accidents. In addition to fatalities, ridesharing accidents often result in injuries, leaving victims to face medical expenses, physical pain, and time away from work, family, and personal activities.
Whether you’re dealing with an injury or the wrongful death of a family member after a rideshare collision, our Tuolumne County Lyft and Uber accident lawyers are here to help. We are committed to securing the resources you need to move forward and rebuild your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sue Lyft For An Accident?
It’s possible to sue Lyft itself, but only in certain cases. It often cannot be held liable for an accident caused by one of its drivers, who are considered independent contractors. Because of this classification, liability laws governing employer-employee relationships don’t apply to them. For you to have a valid case against Lyft, you must establish that its negligence solely or partially caused the accident.
For example, the Lyft driver who caused your accident had a history of reckless driving. Lyft had a duty not to hire such drivers, but the rideshare company breached it by hiring them anyway. They are negligent if they know about it or do not perform a background check like they were supposed to.
There are many other scenarios in which Lyft could be sued. Fill out our “Do I Have A Case Form,” and our Tuolumne County Lyft accident lawyers will evaluate your case for free.
How Much Is My Lyft Accident Case Worth?
The value of your case depends on various factors, one of which is the severity of your injuries. Even minor injuries, like bruises, cuts, and whiplash, deserve compensation. The costs of lab tests, diagnostic procedures, doctor fees, etc. — no matter the cost — should be accurately reflected in your claim.
More serious injuries like broken bones, spinal cord injuries, joint damage, and brain trauma can drive up the value of your settlement. These conditions may result in long-term treatment, disabilities, diminished quality of life, and more. The financial impact can extend beyond medical expenses, especially if you become incapacitated to work. Ultimately, the value of your case depends on both the short- and long-term consequences of your injuries.
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to determine how much my case is worth?” Absolutely. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Tuolumne County won’t just provide an estimate of your losses; we can also help you pursue the full scope of damages you’re entitled to. Call us at (888) 488-1391 today.
How Much Does A Lyft Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most injury law firms, including Arash Law, offer a no-win, no-fee payment arrangement. There are no upfront costs, and we only collect payment after we recover compensation for you. Typically, the contingency fee ranges from 33% to 40% of the settlement or award.
We recognize that injured victims already deal with significant financial strain due to their medical expenses, loss of income, and ongoing treatments. This payment arrangement allows our Lyft accident lawyers in Tuolumne County to represent victims without adding to their burdens. Our payment is tied to your success, so you can be confident that we’re working for your best interests.
Can I Get Compensation If The At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured Or Underinsured?
If you’re injured in a Lyft accident that was the fault of an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you may still have options. Our Tuolumne County lawyers specializing in Lyft accidents will review if you can pursue compensation through:
- Your Auto Policy — If you have UI/UM motorist coverage in your auto insurance policy, you may be able to claim for bodily injuries.
- Lyft’s UI/UM Insurance — If you were riding a Lyft during the accident, Lyft’s $1 million policy may cover your damages.
How Long Does It Take To Resolve My Lyft Accident Case?
Cases involving minor injuries and clear liability could be resolved within a few months. However, some claims with multiple parties, long recovery periods, lack of solid evidence, and major disputes can go on for a couple of years or so.
While our Tuolumne County Lyft accident lawyers aim to move the process forward as efficiently as possible, we can’t promise an exact timeline. We can provide an estimate after reviewing your case thoroughly, but even then, there’s no way to guarantee that the case will proceed as expected. If the case proceeds to trial, the timeline could be extended significantly. That’s why our attorneys only recommend this option as a last resort or if we think it’s the best course of action.
Call The Lyft Accident Lawyers Tuolumne County Trusts
Many things could go wrong in a claim, but we’re here to make things right. Whether you’re struggling with your next steps, a denied claim, inadequate insurance coverage, or other issues, we are here for you. Our Lyft accident attorneys in Tuolumne County have the expertise to handle various challenges and secure the compensation you deserve.
We’ll listen to your story in a free initial consultation, determine the best steps to take, and provide personalized legal advice. Call (888) 488-1391 today. If you can’t visit us, our team can also meet you wherever you are in California, whether in your home, hospital room, or office.
Arash Law serves the entire Tuolumne County, including Sonora, Cedar Ridge, Columbia, Jamestown, Mono Vista, Phoenix Lake, Pine Mountain Lake, Soulsbyville, and Twain Harte. Our lawyers specialize in various practice areas, including truck accidents, premises liability, workers’ compensation, and more.
