Torrance, CA, Lyft Accidents Attorney Representing Lyft Injury Victims
California is well known for its high volume of traffic. This is especially true for the Los Angeles area. Due to the stress and sheer numbers of cars on the road, many individuals have begun to opt to have rideshare companies such as Lyft take them to and from their destinations. Their thoughts are that they may save themselves some of the stress and anxiety that can accompany driving in our area.
Lyft is quickly becoming a strong competitor of other well-known companies and is typically cheaper. However, Lyft is not without its share of problems and issues. Since the beginning, Lyft has had to deal with a multitude of accidents and criminal acts committed by its drivers.
If you have been injured in an accident with a Lyft vehicle, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. KRA Legal, PC is a personal injury law firm that is highly qualified to handle all aspects of Lyft accident cases. Contact our law firm and ask to schedule a free initial consultation.
What Should I Do if I Have Been Involved in an Accident With a Lyft Vehicle?
If you have been involved in an accident with a Lyft vehicle, there are certain steps that you need to take immediately after the accident occurs. The steps are as follows:
- Remain calm and do not leave the scene of the accident.
- Call 911 to report the accident and ask for emergency medical assistance if you or any other individuals are injured. Be sure to obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
- Do not admit fault or express guilt for causing the accident.
- Collect information such as the Lyft operator’s driver’s license, insurance, and license plate number if possible. In order to save time and assure accuracy take pictures of the information that the driver provides.
- Gather evidence, such as the names and contact information of bystanders who may have witnessed the accident.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you do not initially believe that you are injured. Be certain to request a copy of the medical report for your records.
- Contact an experienced Lyft accident attorney who can answer your questions and explain your legal rights.
Who Can be Held Liable if I am Injured in a Lyft Accident?
Under California law, the driver who is determined to be at fault for the accident is held liable to the other drivers or passengers who were injured or sustained property damage. If you were a Lyft passenger and were injured, you are normally covered by the company’s commercial liability insurance. Nevertheless, if the damages you suffered exceed the driver’s insurance coverage, you may be able to make a claim against Lyft’s $ 1 million commercial policy if necessary.
If you have simply been involved in an accident as another driver with a Lyft vehicle, knowing what insurance company to file a claim against becomes more complicated as certain conditions may apply to your particular case. The law divides a rideshare company’s drivers into several periods depending on whether they are on or off duty. For example, Period 1 is the time when a driver is online and waiting for a fare. If they are involved in an accident, Lyft provides coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 for an accident that involves bodily injury, along with $25,000 for property damage.
Because of the complicated nature of the various time periods assigned to Lyft drivers depending on their duty status, it is best to consult with an experienced Lyft accident attorney who can answer all of your questions.
Can I Recover Damages After a Lyft Accident?
If you have been injured as a passenger or other motorist in a Lyft accident, you may be entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages for your injuries and/or property damage. Economic damages are meant to compensate you for the money you spent because of the accident. Some of the most common economic damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
Non-economic damages are unique to your particular case and do not come with a fixed dollar amount. A jury may take into account many factors and other considerations when awarding non-economic damages. They may include the following:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement or scarring
Hiring a qualified attorney with experience with Lyft accident cases is essential in you being able to recover a settlement that is in your best interests due to the complex nature of laws surrounding rideshare accidents.
How Can a Lyft Accident Attorney Help Me With My Claim?
As stated previously, the laws that surround Lyft drivers and their potential liability are overly complex and difficult to navigate on your own. In order to save yourself time and frustration, one of the best steps that you can take to protect yourself is to retain the services of an experienced Lyft accident attorney.
Not all personal injury attorneys from Torrance have the necessary skills to provide you with the aggressive representation that you need. Many personal injury law firms promise their clients positive results but lack the basic knowledge needed to handle the complexities of rideshare accident claims.
Frequently, we have had our clients tell us of how Lyft’s insurance company’s representatives reached out to them not long after the accident occurred and tried to offer them a settlement. Although a quick injury settlement may seem tempting, it is most likely not in your best interests to take the first amount that they may offer you. This is because an insurance company’s prime concern is to maintain profits and not what is best for you.
KRA Legal, PC is passionately committed to obtaining a settlement that is fully favorable to you. We pledge to investigate your case and use all the available resources to provide you with the aggressive representation you deserve. Contact our law offices by calling (310) 431-9875 and ask to schedule a free consultation.