Los Angeles Rideshare Accident Lawyer

There are more than 300,000 rideshare drivers on the road in California, so it’s no surprise that ridesharing accidents are becoming increasingly common. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a rideshare driver’s negligence, it is crucial to contact a Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyer right away.

At J&Y Law, our Los Angeles car accident lawyers have over 80 years of combined experience handling ridesharing accidents, and we can help you. 

We know that being injured in a car accident is overwhelming and we will offer you compassionate, effective legal representation. Contact us today so we can start working on your claim.

What Are the Common Challenges of Rideshare Accident Claims?

Rideshare accident claims, involving services like Uber and Lyft, can present some unique challenges compared to regular auto accident claims. Here are some common difficulties our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers commonly handle:

• Determining employment status: There are often disputes about whether the Lyft or Uber driver was technically “working” at the time of the accident, which impacts the company’s liability.
• Insurance coverage issues: Rideshare companies have intricate insurance policies that may provide limited coverage depending on the driver’s working status when the crash occurred.
• Multiple parties involved: In addition to the rideshare driver and passenger(s), other vehicles may have been involved, making it complex to establish liability.
• Lack of evidence: Without comprehensive data from the rideshare company, proving key details like working status or ride acceptance can be challenging.
• Company non–cooperation: Rideshare giants like Uber and Lyft are notorious for protecting corporate interests over rider and driver rights after accidents.
• Hit–and–run drivers: If the rideshare driver flees the scene, tracking them down and getting their insurance info is extremely difficult.
• Independent contractor disputes: Rideshare companies often argue their drivers are independent contractors to avoid responsibility.

Overcoming these hurdles requires extensive investigation, evidence gathering, and legal expertise in dealing with rideshare companies and their insurers. An experienced rideshare accident attorney is invaluable.

What a Personal Injury Attorney Can Do to Help

When you hire a personal injury attorney after a car accident, they take on the responsibility of building and pursuing your claim, allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable assistance in several ways:

Thorough Investigation

Our experienced rideshare accident lawyers in Los Angeles will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the accident circumstances by:

• Visiting and examining the crash site
• Obtaining and analyzing the official police report
• Identifying and interviewing any witnesses
• Reviewing any available video footage or photographic evidence

Gathering Critical Evidence

Proving your claim requires substantial evidence. Your attorney will:

• Collect all relevant medical records and bills documenting your injuries and treatment
• Obtain employment/wage information to establish lost income claims
• Secure expert testimony if needed, such as accident reconstruction specialists

Handling Legal Processes

There are strict deadlines and procedures that must be followed. Your lawyer will ensure:

• All claims and paperwork are filed promptly and properly
• No crucial dates or statutes of limitation are missed

Negotiating With Insurers

Insurance companies are motivated by profits and may attempt to minimize payouts through bad-faith tactics. An experienced injury lawyer will:

• Effectively negotiate for a full and fair settlement that covers all your damages
• Push back against any unfair denials or lowball offers from adjusters

Pursuing Litigation

If the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable settlement offer, your attorney will be prepared to take them to court to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve through litigation.

With an experienced lawyer handling every aspect of your claim, you can prioritize your health while they work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Recovering the Maximum Compensation Possible

Our experienced rideshare accident attorneys in Los Angeles understand your concerns about the mounting medical expenses and depleted savings when you are unable to work.

We will work tirelessly to help you obtain the medical and financial resources you need and charge you no attorneys’ fees until we win your case. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to significant compensation that includes economic and non-economic damages, such as:

• Medical expenses
• Cost of rehabilitative care
• Long-term nursing care
• Lost income (present and future)
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

If you have lost a loved one in a ridesharing accident, we can help you pursue a wrongful death lawsuit to obtain compensation for final medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, and the loss of financial support and guidance your loved one would have provided.

No amount of money can replace a life, but you deserve compensation that will help to secure your financial future and give you peace of mind.

What Should I Do if I’m in a Lyft or Uber Accident?

Being involved in an accident while using a rideshare service like Lyft or Uber can be a confusing and stressful situation. However, there are some important steps you should take to protect your rights and support any potential insurance claim:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be apparent right away.
• Call the police to report the crash and get an official police report filed.
• Get the rideshare driver’s name, license plate, insurance info, and the rideshare company they drive for (Uber, Lyft, etc.).
• Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions and anything else that could be useful evidence.
• Get contact information from any witnesses who saw what happened.
• Do not discuss fault or make any admission of guilt to the rideshare driver or their insurer. Avoid posting about the accident online.
• Notify the rideshare company about the accident through their app or website. Keep records of any communication.
• Consult an experienced rideshare accident attorney right away. These cases can be complex due to employment status and insurance issues.
• Follow all medical treatment recommendations and keep records of expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
• Never accept an initial settlement offer until you understand the full extent of your injuries and damages.

Prompt action and documentation are vital for protecting your legal rights after a Lyft or Uber crash. An attorney can guide you through the claims process.

What Are Some Common Injuries We Claim in Rideshare Accidents?

Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which are quite common. Here are some of the most frequent injuries sustained in Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare vehicle crashes:

• Whiplash: The sudden back-and-forth motion of the head and neck during a collision can cause whiplash, leading to neck pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
• Head and Brain Injuries: From concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), head trauma is a serious risk, especially if the victim strikes their head on a window or door frame.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of an impact can herniate disks, fracture vertebrae, or even cause paralysis from spinal cord damage in severe cases.
• Broken Bones: Common fractures include arms, legs, ribs, collarbones, and facial bones from striking the interior or being thrown from the vehicle.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Shattered glass, loose objects, and twisted metal can cause deep cuts, requiring stitches or risking disfigurement.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage, internal bleeding, and other injuries to the abdomen or chest areas are possible from the extreme forces involved.
• Psychological Trauma: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are not uncommon after a traumatic rideshare accident.

The severity and type will depend on factors like vehicle speed, angle of impact, safety restraint use, and more. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial after any rideshare crash.

Contact a Los Angeles Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

Ridesharing services provide passengers with a convenient way to travel, but accidents should not be part of the bargain. At J&Y Law, our experienced rideshare accident lawyers have the knowledge and skill to hold rideshare companies and their drivers accountable and will make sure your rights are protected.

At J&Y Law, we focus on you. Contact our office today for a free consultation.