Glendora Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer

Whether you need a ride to the APU/Citrus College Metro Station to get to school, have a date in Glendora Village, or you’re flying out of LAX, popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed the way we get around. While convenient, they have also introduced a new set of legal challenges, especially in the context of car accidents. While rideshare accidents are like any other car accident, trying to determine liability is notoriously difficult due to rideshare driver’s employment status as an independent contractor. 

This classification not only delay payment to the injured party but can cause a frustrating dialogue between insurance companies trying to shift blame onto other insurance providers. As such, if you or a loved one has suffered injuries and are awaiting payment from the insurance companies, it is vital to hire an experienced rideshare accident lawyer and understand your rights. 

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our team of Glendora Uber and Lyft accident lawyers will provide our clients the legal representation and guidance they need. With over $1.7 billion won for our clients, our attorneys have a proven track record of winning cases and securing fair compensation for our clients. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your case, our 24/7 legal team will be there every step of the way to ensure you are properly informed of your case.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not pay anything until you win! Call today at (213) 927-3700 or reach out via this quick online contact form for a FREE case review!

Understanding Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can be complex and involve multiple parties, including the rideshare company, driver, and insurance providers. Determining who is responsible for covering the costs of injuries and damages depends on the circumstances of the accident. Accidents involving rideshare services can occur in various situations, such as when a driver is logged into the app on the way to pick up a rider or actively transporting passengers. 

Rideshare companies are required to carry insurance policies that vary based on the driver’s status during the crash. For instance, if the driver is not logged into the app, their personal insurance applies. However, if the driver is logged in but has not accepted a ride, limited liability coverage is provided. When a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, the coverage increases significantly. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone involved in a rideshare accident.

Why Glendora Rideshare Accidents Are On the Rise

Glendora, a vibrant city located in Los Angeles County, is home to more than 50,000 Glendora residents. With increased demand for rideshare services, traffic congestion has surged. And so too have car accident incidents involving Uber or Lyft drivers. According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, car accident fatalities have risen 3% due to the introduction of ridesharing services.

Factors contributing to these accidents include:

• Driver distraction: Rideshare drivers often rely on GPS and app-based navigation, which can divert their attention from the road.
• Fatigue: Many drivers work long hours or drive for multiple rideshare companies, increasing the likelihood of exhaustion-related accidents.
• Increased traffic during peak hours: High demand during rush hours can lead to congested roads and impatient driving behavior.
• Drivers unfamiliar with local streets: Non-local drivers may make last-minute turns or sudden stops while navigating unfamiliar routes, contributing to accidents.
• Third party negligence: Other drivers’ negligent actions can also contribute to rideshare accidents, emphasizing the importance of holding all negligent parties accountable.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, such as:

• Whiplash: Caused by the sudden jolt during a collision, often leading to neck stiffness and pain.
• Fractures: Broken bones can require long-term immobilization and rehabilitation.
• Traumatic brain injuries: Head trauma can result in cognitive issues, memory loss, and personality changes.
• Internal bleeding: Potentially life-threatening injuries that require immediate medical intervention.
• Dog bites (in rare instances): Some accidents may even involve pets in the vehicle, resulting in bites or scratches.

Uber and Lyft Accident Insurance Coverage

Understanding insurance coverage in a rideshare accident is crucial to securing compensation. Uber and Lyft provide tiered insurance depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

• App off: The driver’s personal insurance applies. Uber and Lyft provide no coverage.
• App on, no ride accepted: Limited liability coverage up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Ride accepted or passenger in vehicle: Both companies provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and contingent collision coverage.

A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can determine which coverage applies based on the circumstances surrounding the crash. Gathering the evidence needed is essential to determine which insurance coverage applies in a rideshare accident.

Who Is Responsible for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Determining liability in an Uber or Lyft accident is complex due to the involvement of multiple parties. Responsibility may fall on:

• The rideshare driver: If the accident was caused by the driver’s negligent actions, such as distracted driving or speeding.
• Another driver: In multi-vehicle accidents, another party may be held liable.
• Uber or Lyft (in limited cases): If the company failed in background checks or safety protocols, legal claims may extend to them.
• Third parties: Vehicle manufacturers or government entities (e.g., poor road maintenance) may be at fault in some situations.

A skilled accident lawyer will investigate the accident scene, review driver records, and assess all the parties involved to build a strong case. It is crucial to understand and protect your legal rights when determining liability in an Uber or Lyft accident.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Glendora

If you have been involved in a rideshare accident, it is vital that you take the following steps, or else there is a possibility that you may become liable for certain aspects of the accident when in actuality you were just trying to help.

1. Seek medical attention immediately: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
2. Document the accident scene: Take photos and write down what happened while your memory is fresh.
3. Collect information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver: This includes names, insurance details, vehicle information, and app status (e.g., were they actively working?).
4. Report the crash to the rideshare company: Contact Uber or Lyft through the app or dial their customer support. Their trained staff will review the situation and reach out to check on you. They will also request additional information to understand what factors ultimately contributed to the rideshare accident.
5. Report the incident to the insurance company: Notify both your own insurer and the rideshare company’s insurance provider to begin the claims process.
6. Contact a Glendora personal injury law firm to explore legal options: Call us at  (888) 572-9204 for a free case review and our legal counsel can guide you on how to proceed, protect your rights, and negotiate with insurers.
7. Select the right law firm for legal representation: Choosing the right law firm is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. The right firm will provide personal attention and be committed to achieving successful results, unlike others that may not offer the same level of client engagement.

Available Damage Recovery in an Uber or Lyft Car Accident Case

Victims of Uber and Lyft accidents may pursue a wide range of financial compensation depending on the severity of injuries and losses. These damages include:

• Medical expenses: Including past and future treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages: For time off work and lost earning potential.
• Property damage: Repairs or replacement of your vehicle or personal belongings.
• Financial support: For surviving family members in wrongful death claims.
• Pain and suffering: For ongoing discomfort or chronic pain.
• Emotional distress: Including trauma, anxiety, and PTSD.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in daily or recreational activities.
• Non economic damages: More subjective impacts such as grief or humiliation.
• Punitive Damages: Awarded in cases involving extreme negligence or reckless behavior to punish the at-fault party and deter similar conduct.

The Role of a Glendora Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer

When looking for a Glendora rideshare accident lawyer, it is vital that you look for factors that will give your assurance and confidence that they will properly watch out for your best interests. For instance, a dedicated personal injury attorney will help ensure you to receive maximum compensation for your injuries by assessing the full extent of your injuries and losses to pursue the highest possible settlement or judgment. In fact, a good personal injury lawyer will make sure all parties involved are held accountable, you do not exceed any deadline to file your claim, and most importantly, that you understand all the details of your personal injury case. 

Additionally, an ideal lawyer should have a proven legal experience in personal injury law, a strong network of medical experts for validating injuries resulting from the accident, and a successful track record with Uber or Lyft accident claims. While looking for the right attorney to represent you for your case can be a challenge, but it is recommended that you take your time and search promptly at your own pace.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation with West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one have been injured in a rideshare accident, you do not need to endure the injuries and pay for them out of pocket. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we understand the unique dynamics of Glendora and Los Angeles County courts and work closely with local authorities and medical providers in order to get our clients the justice and compensation they deserve. Unlike other law firms that treat clients like a number, you’ll have direct access to your attorney to provide you with the support you need through a difficult time.

In fact, our Glendora Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can step in to handle any legal complexities that may arise while you recover with a peace of mind. With over 20 years of experience, our team of rideshare accident lawyers are well versed in personal injury cases and are prepared to watch out for your best interests. Best of all, there’s no cost or obligation to speak with us. We’ll evaluate your case and provide clear advice for free, and whether your case requires negotiation or litigation, our law office is committed to providing exceptional service during difficult times.

To schedule a FREE consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer, you can reach out to our 24/7 legal team by calling (213) 927-3700 or completing our easy online contact form. We offer a No Win/No Fee Guarantee, ensuring you do not incur any costs until a settlement or verdict is achieved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glendora Rideshare Accidents

How Soon Should I Contact a Lawyer After an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Immediately. Early legal intervention ensures vital evidence is preserved and prevent your case from running into the statute of limitations. Preserving the evidence needed to support your case is crucial for determining responsibility and assessing the value of your accident claim.

Will I Need to Go to Court?

Most cases settle outside court, but at West Coast Trial Lawyers, we’re prepared for trial if needed.

What Happens if I Was Not Wearing a Seat Belt During the Rideshare Accident?

If you were not wearing a seat belt during a rideshare accident, your compensation may be reduced for going against a California law, specifically CVC 27315. This regulation clarifies that all occupants of a moving vehicle 8 years and older have to use a safety belt. The intent for this is to reduce the number of highway deaths and injuries. Failing to comply may result in fines and potentially other penalties. This includes some of the following:

• Adults will be charged $162
• $490 will be administered if a child under 16 is not properly restrained
• If the parent is not in the vehicle, the driver will get ticketed for not putting a seat belt on the child