Uber and Lyft Lawyers Lawyers in Irvine

Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers in Irvine

Uber and Lyft are popular means of getting around Irvine and the surrounding areas. While it’s a great option after a night on the town, or if you have to drop your car at the mechanic, riding in a rideshares sometimes get in car accidents. If you’ve been involved in an accident while a passenger, read on to find out what to do. 

Causes Of Uber and Lyft Accident in Irvine

Uber and Lyft accidents in Irvine can occur for a variety of reasons, similar to other vehicular accidents. Some common causes include:

1. Distracted Driving: Ride-share drivers often use their phones for navigation and to manage ride requests, which can divert their attention from the road.
2. Fatigue: Uber and Lyft drivers may work long hours to maximize their earnings, leading to driver fatigue, which increases the risk of accidents.
3. Speeding: In an effort to complete more rides within a shorter period, some drivers may exceed speed limits or drive aggressively, contributing to accidents.
4. Inexperienced Drivers: Although Uber and Lyft require driving experience, the level of skill can vary significantly, and less experienced drivers may be more prone to making errors on the road.
5. Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Ride-sharing vehicles are subject to significant wear and tear. Failure to maintain brakes, tires, and other critical components can lead to mechanical failures that result in accidents.
6. Impaired Driving: Despite strict policies against driving under the influence, there are instances where ride-share drivers may operate their vehicles while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
7. Road Conditions: Poor road conditions, such as potholes, uneven road surfaces, and lack of proper signage, can also contribute to accidents, especially if the driver is not familiar with the area.
8. Weather Conditions: Inclement weather, like fog, rain, or icy conditions, can make driving more hazardous and increase the likelihood of an accident.

Addressing these factors and promoting safer driving practices among ride-share drivers can help reduce the frequency of Uber and Lyft accidents in Irvine.

What happens After a Rideshare Accident

As Uber and Lyft usage becomes more prevalent, understanding the necessary steps in the event of an accident involving a rideshare vehicle is crucial. If you sustain injuries in such accidents, it’s essential to enlist the assistance of an attorney in Irvine who can help secure the compensation you rightfully deserve. This may entail pursuing claims against the driver of the vehicle responsible for the collision, the rideshare driver, or even Lyft and Uber themselves.

Whenever feasible, meticulously document pertinent details, including:

• Promptly contacting the police and emergency responders to assess injuries.
• Gathering names, contact information, and insurance details of all parties involved.
• Identifying witnesses and obtaining their contact information.
• Capturing video footage of the accident scene, encompassing the vehicles involved and any injuries sustained.

Seeking Legal Assistance for Uber and Lyft Accidents in Irvine, CA

An experienced attorney can provide guidance on whether you have grounds for a viable case. Reach out to Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers in Irvine, CA, to ascertain the most appropriate steps to pursue compensation for your rideshare accident. If you’ve suffered injuries, you deserve reimbursement for medical expenses and associated costs.

Avoid Relying Solely on Insurance Companies

In rideshare accidents, multiple insurance companies may be involved. Both Lyft and Uber drivers possess personal auto insurance, as do other drivers involved in the collision. Furthermore, Uber and Lyft carry $1 million in insurance coverage for accidents.

Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts to maximize profits. Thus, it’s crucial to have steadfast representation advocating for the compensation you rightfully deserve, rather than settling for less than you’re owed. Our Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers in Irvine, CA, conduct thorough investigations into the accident and the extent of your injuries to ensure you receive full compensation.

Employee Status of Uber or Lyft Drivers

While rideshare companies initially classified drivers as contractors, the enactment of Assembly Bill 5 in California as of January 2020 has reclassified gig workers as employees. AB5 specifically targeted rideshare and similar companies, which works to your advantage when seeking compensation from Uber and Lyft following a rideshare accident.

Who Are The Defendants In A Irvine Uber and Lyft Accident?

In an Uber or Lyft accident in Irvine, the parties who might be named as defendants can vary depending on the details of the incident. Here are some potential defendants in such cases:

1. The Ride-Share Driver: If the Uber or Lyft driver is found to be at fault due to negligence, such as distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, they can be named as a defendant.
2. Uber or Lyft (The Companies): The companies themselves can sometimes be held liable, especially if there is a question about their hiring practices, such as failing to properly screen or train drivers. Also, their insurance may cover damages depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident (whether the app was on, and if they were carrying a passenger).
3. Third-Party Drivers: If another motorist’s actions contributed to the accident, that driver can also be named as a defendant. This includes scenarios where another driver might have violated traffic laws, causing the Uber or Lyft driver to crash.
4. Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defect in any of the vehicles involved in the accident contributed to its occurrence or the extent of the injuries, the manufacturer might be liable.
5. Maintenance Companies: If poor maintenance of the vehicle is a factor in the accident, the service provider responsible for the vehicle’s upkeep could be held accountable.
6. Government Entities: Occasionally, poor road conditions or inadequate signage can contribute to an accident. In such cases, the city or state responsible for road maintenance might be liable.

Determining the appropriate defendants in an Uber or Lyft accident requires a thorough investigation of the accident circumstances, including the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved. Legal experts usually handle this aspect as they prepare a case for compensation.

What Kind Of Compensation Can I Receive?

In Irvine, victims of Uber and Lyft accidents may be eligible for several types of compensation, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of their injuries. Here are the main categories of compensation typically pursued in these cases:

1. Medical Expenses: Compensation for all medical treatments related to the accident, including hospital bills, medication costs, rehabilitation, and any future medical care required.
2. Lost Wages: If the injury has caused the victim to miss work, compensation for lost wages can be claimed. This also includes loss of earning capacity if the victim is unable to return to the same level of employment as before the accident.
3. Pain and Suffering: This covers physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident. Compensation for pain and suffering can vary widely and is often subjective.
4. Property Damage: If the accident resulted in damage to the victim’s personal property, such as their vehicle or personal belongings, compensation for repairs or replacement can be sought.
5. Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injuries sustained have long-term effects that prevent the victim from enjoying daily activities or hobbies that they participated in before the accident, compensation can be sought for this loss.
6. Punitive Damages: In cases where the conduct of the Uber or Lyft driver was particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
7. Wrongful Death: If an Uber or Lyft accident results in a fatality, the family of the deceased may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.

Each case will vary based on specific factors, such as the severity of the injuries and the circumstances of the accident. Consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help determine the full range of compensation available in a specific case.

Commonly Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after an Uber or Lyft accident in Irvine?

After an Uber or Lyft accident, ensure your safety and that of others by checking for injuries and calling emergency services if necessary. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from all parties involved, including witnesses. It is also recommended to notify the respective ride-sharing company through their app.

Can I receive compensation if I’m injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft?

As a passenger injured in an Uber or Lyft, you are typically covered by the company’s insurance policy, which can provide compensation for your injuries. Heidari Law Group can help you understand the specifics of these policies and ensure that your claims are properly filed to maximize your recovery.

How is liability determined in a ride-sharing accident?

Determining liability in a ride-sharing accident involves understanding whether the ride-share driver, another driver, or another party was at fault. Factors include the drivers’ actions, vehicle conditions, and adherence to road laws. Our attorneys can help gather the necessary evidence and expert testimonies to establish liability.

What are the possible damages I can claim in an Uber or Lyft accident lawsuit?

You may be entitled to various types of damages including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and possibly punitive damages if egregious conduct was involved. Heidari Law Group will work to ensure all potential damages are considered in your claim.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after an Uber or Lyft accident in Irvine?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadline and to ensure your rights are fully protected.

Will my case go to trial, or can it be settled out of court?

Many Uber and Lyft accident claims are settled out of court, but this depends on the willingness of all parties to agree on a fair compensation. Heidari Law Group prepares every case as if it will go to trial to ensure the best possible outcome, whether through settlement or court proceedings.

How does Heidari Law Group charge for Uber and Lyft accident cases?

Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not pay legal fees unless we win your case. All fees are a percentage of the settlement or award, ensuring our interests are aligned with achieving the best outcome for you.

What if the Uber or Lyft driver was not at fault?

If another party is at fault, you can still pursue a claim against that driver’s insurance. In some cases, additional claims might be made against the ride-sharing company or other entities. We will help identify all potential sources of compensation.

Can I file a claim if I was a pedestrian hit by an Uber or Lyft vehicle?

Yes, if you were a pedestrian injured by an Uber or Lyft vehicle, you have the right to seek compensation. This process involves proving negligence on the part of the driver or company and claiming against their insurance.

How can Heidari Law Group help if the insurance company denies my claim?

Insurance companies may deny claims for various reasons, but having an experienced attorney can significantly help in appealing the decision. Heidari Law Group is skilled in negotiations and can challenge the denial through further negotiation or litigation if necessary.

Experienced Rideshare Accident Attorneys at Heidari Law Group

At Heidari Law Group, our experienced lawyers are equipped to represent you against companies like Uber or Lyft. We offer free initial consultations to thoroughly review your case and discuss possible outcomes. This allows us to tailor our approach to best suit your needs and enhance your chances for a successful resolution.

Contact us today to take advantage of this opportunity and let us help you navigate your legal challenges effectively. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the support and expertise necessary to handle your case with the utmost professionalism and care.