Orange County Lyft Accident Lawyer

Managing Partner

January 2, 2024

19 min read

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Lyft is the perfect choice for getting around Orange County, whether you’re exploring the city of Irvine or soaking up the sun in Newport Beach.

However, with the rise of ridesharing services like Lyft, there’s been an increase in road accidents. A University of Chicago study indicates a 3% increase in car accident fatalities due to ridesharing.

In the unfortunate event of a Lyft accident in Orange County, whether you’re a passenger, driver, or pedestrian affected, you need to have a reliable legal team. At Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, we’re known for securing millions of dollars for our clients and are ready to handle your Lyft accident case with dedication and expertise.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Which Roads and Intersections in Orange County Are the Most Dangerous?

Orange County’s popularity among tourists and locals, combined with its dense population, leads to traffic congestion and safety challenges. High-traffic areas, residential and commercial districts, educational institutions, and tourist attractions are common sites for Lyft accidents. These include:

Major Highways

Interstate 5 (I-5): This is the main north-south route that connects Orange County with Los Angeles and San Diego. It is also one of the busiest and most congested highways in the state, with frequent traffic jams and collisions. Some of the common accident locations on I-5 include the interchange with State Route 22 (SR-22), the Santa Ana River Bridge, and the El Toro Y.
State Route 91 (SR-91): This is an east-west route that runs through the northern part of the county, connecting Anaheim, Fullerton, and Corona. It is also a major commuter corridor, with heavy traffic during peak hours. Some of the common accident locations on SR-91 include the interchange with State Route 55 (SR-55), the Riverside Freeway, and the Imperial Highway.

Residential and Commercial Areas

Irvine: This is one of the largest and most populous cities in the county, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial zones. It is also home to several major employers, such as Blizzard Entertainment, Broadcom, and Allergan. Some of the common accident locations in Irvine include the intersection of Jamboree Road and Barranca Parkway, the intersection of Culver Drive and Irvine Center Drive, and the intersection of Alton Parkway and Jeffrey Road.
Huntington Beach: This is a coastal city that is known for its surfing culture and beach lifestyle. It is also a popular tourist destination, with many attractions, such as the Huntington Beach Pier, the International Surfing Museum, and the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Some of the common accident locations in Huntington Beach include the intersection of Beach Boulevard and Warner Avenue, the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Main Street, and the intersection of Goldenwest Street and Edinger Avenue.

Educational Institutions

University of California Irvine (UCI): This is a public research university that is part of the prestigious University of California system. It has over 36,000 students and offers more than 200 degree programs. It is also ranked among the top universities in the world, according to various academic rankings. Some of the common accident locations near UCI include the intersection of Campus Drive and University Drive, the intersection of Culver Drive and Campus Drive, and the intersection of University Drive and Harvard Avenue.
Fullerton College: This is a public community college that is part of the North Orange County Community College District. It has over 25,000 students and offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs. It is also one of the oldest and largest community colleges in the state, with a history dating back to 1913. Some of the common accident locations near Fullerton College include the intersection of Chapman Avenue and Lemon Street, the intersection of Harbor Boulevard and Berkeley Avenue, and the intersection of Commonwealth Avenue and Raymond Avenue.

Tourist Hotspots

Disneyland Resort: This is a world-famous theme park complex that is owned and operated by The Walt Disney Company. It consists of two theme parks (Disneyland and Disney California Adventure), three hotels, and a shopping and entertainment district (Downtown Disney). It attracts millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Some of the common accident locations near Disneyland Resort include the intersection of Harbor Boulevard and Katella Avenue, the intersection of Ball Road and Disneyland Drive, and the intersection of Katella Avenue and West Street.
Knott’s Berry Farm: This is a theme park and amusement park that is owned and operated by Cedar Fair. It features various rides, shows, attractions, and events themed around the history and culture of the American West. It is also known for its seasonal events, such as Knott’s Scary Farm and Knott’s Merry Farm. Some of the common accident locations near Knott’s Berry Farm include the intersection of Beach Boulevard and La Palma Avenue, the intersection of Knott Avenue and Crescent Avenue, and the intersection of Western Avenue and Orangethorpe Avenue.

Pro Tip

If you’ve been in a Lyft accident, pinpointing the location can help establish factors that may have contributed to the incident.

What Should I Do After a Lyft Accident in Orange County?

Following a Lyft accident, it’s best to:

Seek Medical Attention

If you’re involved in a Lyft accident in Orange County, the first and most important step is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel okay right after the accident, some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, might not show symptoms immediately. A prompt health assessment ensures that any hidden injuries are identified and treated early.

Going to a doctor or emergency room also creates a medical record of your injuries. These records are important if you later decide to seek compensation for your injuries. They provide evidence of the extent and nature of your injuries, which is essential in any legal or insurance claim. Don’t delay medical attention after an accident.

Report the Accident to Lyft

After ensuring your health and safety, the next important step is to report the accident to Lyft. Lyft has specific protocols for reporting accidents, which are accessible through their mobile app or customer service channels. Reporting the accident as soon as possible is advised because it creates an official record of the incident. This report is an essential part of the process if you need to make an insurance claim or take legal action.

When you report the accident to Lyft, provide as much detail as possible. Include the time, location, and circumstances of the accident. If you have the names and contact details of any witnesses or the other parties involved, include this information as well. The more information you can provide, the better Lyft can respond to and process your report.

Keep Records of All Related Documents

Keep detailed records of all documents related to the Lyft accident. This includes not only your medical records but also any police reports, photos of the accident scene, correspondence with Lyft, insurance companies, or other involved parties, and records of any expenses related to the accident, like medical bills or vehicle repairs.

These documents support your insurance claim or legal action. They provide evidence of the accident’s circumstances, the injuries you suffered, and the financial impact the accident has had on you. Organizing and preserving these documents can significantly strengthen your case and help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Tip

Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles and your injuries, if possible.

We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Lyft Accident Injuries

Lyft accidents can result in various injuries, ranging from mild to severe. Common injuries include:

Soft Tissue Injuries

When involved in a Lyft accident, one common type of injury you might experience is a soft tissue injury. This term covers damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons – the parts of your body that help with movement and support. In a car collision, the sudden, forceful impact can cause these tissues to stretch excessively or even tear.

What you need to know about soft tissue injuries is that they’re not always immediately apparent. You might walk away from the accident feeling fine but start noticing pain, swelling, or bruising later. These injuries can range from mild discomfort to severe, long-lasting pain. It’s important to get checked by a medical professional if you suspect you’ve sustained such an injury, as early treatment can prevent further complications.

Head and Neck Injuries

Head and neck injuries are particularly concerning in Lyft accidents. The force of the collision can cause your head to jerk violently, leading to injuries like concussions or whiplash. A concussion, which is a mild form of traumatic brain injury, can occur when your brain is jolted inside your skull. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and memory problems.

On the other hand, whiplash affects your neck. It happens when the neck is suddenly forced forward and then back, overstretching and damaging the neck muscles and ligaments.

These injuries can have a range of symptoms and long-term effects. For instance, repeated concussions can lead to lasting neurological issues, while severe whiplash might result in chronic neck pain or other complications.

Bone Fractures

Lyft accidents can exert a great deal of force on your body, enough to break bones. Bone fractures vary in severity from simple breaks, where the bone cracks but stays within the body, to compound fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin. Compound fractures are particularly serious because they can lead to infection and usually require surgical intervention.

The impact of a bone fracture on your daily life can be significant. Depending on the location and severity of the break, you may need a cast, splint, or even surgery. The healing process can be lengthy, and in some cases, you might need physical therapy to regain full use of the injured area. Bone fractures are not just painful; they can also be life-changing, affecting your mobility and independence.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Perhaps the most severe injuries resulting from Lyft accidents are spinal cord injuries (SCIs). These occur when there is damage to the spinal cord itself, which can happen due to a forceful impact or penetration in an accident. SCIs can range from incomplete, where some movement and sensation remain below the injury site, to complete, which results in total loss of movement and sensation below the injury.

Incomplete SCIs may allow for some recovery through rehabilitation, but complete SCIs often lead to permanent paralysis, either paraplegia or quadriplegia. These injuries require extensive medical care, including surgery, ongoing physical therapy, and potentially lifelong assistance with daily activities.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lyft Accident Lawyer?

Being in a Lyft accident in Orange County can be a traumatic experience. If you’ve suffered serious injuries, the medical bills, lost income, and potential long-term care costs can be overwhelming. You might understandably worry about how you’ll afford the legal help you need to pursue fair compensation.

The good news is that many reputable personal injury lawyers who specialize in Lyft accidents, including our firm at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t have to pay any upfront legal fees. Your lawyer’s payment will come as a percentage of the settlement or court award they help you win. If they don’t recover compensation for you, you won’t owe them anything. This system lets you focus on healing without the additional financial burden of legal costs.

Local Result

Elderly Orange County Resident Obtains $100,000 Settlement for Injuries in T-Bone Collision with Large Truck

Case Type

Truck Accident

Location

Orange County, CA

Settlement

$100,000.00

Can I Recover Compensation if I Share Some of the Blame for a Lyft Accident in Orange County?

It’s natural to be concerned about your options if you were partially at fault in a Lyft accident. Scenarios where both parties share some blame are more common than you might think. For instance, a Lyft driver might have been distracted while you were attempting to change lanes without signaling properly.

California has a “comparative negligence” system. This means that even if you were partly to blame for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. The amount you receive will be reduced based on your percentage of fault as determined by the courts. If you are found to be 20% at fault, you would still be able to recover 80% of your calculated damages.

What Causes Lyft Accidents in Orange County, CA?

Rideshare services like Lyft are convenient, but accidents are a reality. Some of the most common causes of Lyft accidents in Orange County include:

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents. Lyft drivers might text or talk on their phones while checking directions or ride requests. Eating or drinking takes their focus away from the road. Adjusting the radio or navigation system can also be a dangerous distraction.

Speeding

Drivers may feel pressured to speed to pick up more fares and make more money. Traffic congestion can also lead to speeding as drivers become frustrated. Unfortunately, some drivers simply ignore posted speed limits, increasing the risk of accidents.

Failure to Yield

Failure to yield is another common cause of Lyft accidents. This might involve running stop signs or red lights, perhaps due to being distracted or unfamiliar with the area. Drivers might also make unsafe lane changes without proper signaling, or fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or at intersections.

Note

These are just some of the major causes of Lyft accidents. Other factors, such as driver fatigue, driving under the influence, and poor weather conditions also contribute to these incidents.

Legal Aspects of Lyft Accidents in Orange County

Lyft accidents in Orange County, like any other rideshare incidents, are subject to specific legal considerations under California law. Here’s what you should know about the legal landscape surrounding Lyft accidents.

Independent Contractor Status of Lyft Drivers

In Orange County, as in the rest of California, Lyft drivers are typically classified as independent contractors. This classification impacts legal liability in several ways:

Liability: Since Lyft drivers are independent contractors, they are considered to be operating their own businesses. Consequently, Lyft may not be held directly liable for a driver’s actions in an accident. This can make legal claims more complex compared to traditional employee-employer relationships.
Compensation Routes: Despite the independent contractor status of Lyft drivers, if you are involved in a Lyft accident, you still have several avenues to seek compensation. The legal framework in California accommodates claims under various circumstances.

Insurance Coverage Policies for Lyft in California

Lyft drivers in Orange County are bound by California’s insurance laws, designed to provide protection for all parties involved in a rideshare accident:

Personal Insurance Requirement: Lyft drivers must maintain personal auto insurance with minimum liability limits. In California, this includes $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $5,000 for property damage.
Supplemental Insurance by Lyft: In addition to personal insurance, Lyft provides its drivers with additional insurance coverage. The extent of this coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
While Waiting for a Ride Request: Lyft offers liability coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident, plus $30,000 for property damage. There is also $200,000 in excess liability coverage.
During Passenger Transport: When a Lyft driver is transporting a passenger or on the way to pick one up, Lyft’s insurance coverage increases. It provides $1 million in liability coverage and an equal amount for uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Rights of Injured Parties in Lyft Accidents in Orange County

You need to know your rights if you’re involved in a Lyft accident:

Filing a Claim: As a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver involved in a Lyft accident, you have the right to seek compensation. This claim can be directed towards the Lyft driver, Lyft as a company, or any other party involved in the accident.
Determining the Claim Path: The specific details of the accident, such as whether the Lyft driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger, play a significant role in determining the appropriate path for your compensation claim.

Living in Orange County, I come across accidents every day during my commute to Irvine and on my way back home to Lake Forest. While I can’t assist everyone on the spot, in my role as the Intake Manager, I do have the opportunity to be that crucial first point of contact, providing assistance and alleviating stress for those uncertain bout their next steps.

– Mike Buhler

Intake Manager at Text Kevin

– Mike Buhler
Intake Manager at Text Kevin

Contact our Orange County Lyft Accident Attorneys Today for Legal Help

If you’re involved in a Lyft accident in Orange County, attorney Kevin Crockett and the Text Kevin Accident Attorneys team are here to help. Our track record, including a recent $2.75 million settlement in a car accident case, demonstrates our commitment to our clients’ well-being. Contact us for a free consultation, and remember, we operate on a contingency fee basis – you only pay if we win.

ORANGE COUNTY OFFICE LOCATIONS

Anaheim Office

617 S Harbor Blvd, Unit A 
Anaheim, CA 92805

Santa Ana Office

106 W 4th St, Ste 315 
Santa Ana, CA, 92701

Irvine Office 

7700 Irvine Center Dr, Ste 400
Irvine, CA 92618

Orange County Car Accident FAQs

How far is Orange County from LA?

The distance between central Orange County (e.g., Santa Ana) and downtown Los Angeles is approximately 30 to 40 miles, but actual distances may vary based on specific locations within each county.

How many people live in Orange County?

As of January 2022, Orange County, California, had an estimated population of around 3.2 million people.

How many cities are in Orange County?

As of January 2022, Orange County, California, consists of 34 incorporated cities.

When is the Orange County Fair?

The Orange County Fair typically takes place during the summer months. However, specific dates may vary from year to year.

Where is the Orange County Airport in California?

The main airport serving Orange County, California, is John Wayne Airport (SNA). It is located in Santa Ana, approximately 35 miles southeast of Los Angeles and about 2 miles from the city center of Irvine. John Wayne Airport is a major airport in the region, providing domestic flights and serving as a gateway to and from Orange County.

How big is Orange County?

Orange County, California, covers an area of approximately 948 square miles (2,455 square kilometers).

Orange County Points of Interest

Disneyland Park

A world-famous theme park located in Anaheim, offering a magical experience with various themed lands, attractions, and entertainment.

1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802 Website

Knott’s Berry Farm

A popular amusement park with thrilling rides, live entertainment, and the famous Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant.

8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620 Website

Huntington Beach Pier

An iconic pier in Huntington Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere, sandy beaches, and excellent surfing conditions.

325 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Website

Balboa Island

A charming island community in Newport Beach, known for its scenic harbor, waterfront homes, and the Balboa Fun Zone.

206 Marine Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92662 Website

Angel Stadium of Anaheim

Home to the Los Angeles Angels baseball team, this stadium offers an exciting venue for sports enthusiasts.

2000 E Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806 Website

Mission San Juan Capistrano

A historic Spanish mission, known as the "Jewel of the Missions," featuring beautiful gardens, preserved adobe buildings, and the famous swallows.

26801 Old Mission Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Website

Orange County Auto Body Shops

AUTHOR

Kevin received both his bachelor’s degree and law degree from the University of California, Irvine. He is the managing partner of Text Kevin Accident Attorneys and is recognized as a standout in plaintiffs’ litigation for personal injury law by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected legal peer-review publisher. Kevin has written for several law magazines and is an award-winning car accident lawyer in California.

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