At the risk of understatement, being involved in a Lyft accident can turn your life upside down. Whether you’re a passenger, a driver, or another driver, the physical, emotional, and financial toll of any accident can be ruinous. Navigating the aftermath—dealing with injuries, insurance claims, and legal complexities—can be an uphill battle. Belal Hamideh, an experienced Palos Verdes Lyft accident lawyer, knows what it takes to win these cases.
Belal is committed to helping victims of Lyft accidents recover the compensation they need to move forward. You don’t have to take on Lyft or the insurance companies on your own – Belal has your back.
What Makes a Successful Palos Verdes Lyft Accident Lawyer?
A track record of success backed by years of experience and knowledge – that’s what Belal offers. With a history of achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. Whether through negotiation or litigation, he is committed to fighting for the best possible results.
Lyft has become a popular mode of transportation in Palos Verdes and across California. While the convenience of ridesharing is undeniable, accidents involving Lyft vehicles can and do happen. These accidents often involve unique legal and insurance challenges, making it essential to work with an attorney who understands the intricacies of rideshare cases.
Rideshare accidents, including those involving Lyft, come with their own set of legal complexities. Belal has a thorough understanding of California’s rideshare laws, insurance requirements, and liability issues. As such, he understands that every Lyft accident case is unique.
So, he takes the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and tailor his approach to your specific situation. His compassionate and client-centered approach ensures that you are both supported and empowered throughout the legal process.
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a Lyft accident, you need an attorney who really is there for you. . Belal prioritizes keeping you informed at every stage of your case. He is always available to answer your questions and address your concerns.
Common Causes of Lyft Accidents
Lyft accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Distracted Driving: Lyft drivers may be distracted by their GPS, phone, or passengers, leading to accidents.
- Fatigue: Long hours on the road can cause driver fatigue, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Motorists: Accidents can also be caused by the negligence of other drivers on the road.
- Reckless Driving: Speeding, aggressive driving, and failure to obey traffic laws can result in serious accidents.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Inadequate maintenance of Lyft vehicles can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake or tire issues.
Who Is Liable in a Lyft Accident?
Determining liability in a Lyft accident can be complicated. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be held responsible, including:
- Another Driver: If another driver caused the accident, they may be held accountable.
- The Lyft Driver: If the Lyft driver was negligent, they may be liable for the accident.
- Manufacturers, Governmental Agencies, and More: Other parties may also be liable in certain situations.
Belal Hamideh will thoroughly investigate your case, identify all potentially liable parties, and more. Then, he’ll bring a case against all involved so that you receive what you should.
What You Should After a Lyft Accident
If you’ve been involved in a Lyft accident, taking the right steps can protect your health, your rights, and do everything necessary to make sure that you receive the compensation that you deserve.
Seek Safety
Getting yourself out of harm’s way is the first, most important step. If you can do so safely, make sure that you’re able to get away from further harm.
Medical Attention
Your health and safety are the top priorities. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Many internal injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Accident Report
Contact the police to report the accident. A police report can provide a valuable police report. This can be very useful evidence for your case.
Safe Evidence Collection
If you’re able, collect evidence at the scene of the accident. This may include:
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries
- The Lyft driver’s insurance information
- Contact information for the Lyft driver, passengers, and any witnesses
Contact an Attorney Before Speaking to an Insurance Company
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Avoid giving statements or signing documents without consulting an attorney.
Reach out to Belal Hamideh as soon as possible. He can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Lyft Accident Case Potential Compensation
If you’ve been injured in a Lyft accident, you may be entitled to economic and non-economic compensation. This can provide compensation for:
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover lost income.
- Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills related to your injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
Belal Hamideh can do what’s necessary for you to receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Lyft Accident Case: Legal Process
No two Lyft cases are the same. One will be different from the next, with an entirely different situation. No matter what, Belal can be there for you. While there are important differences, each case will involve:
A Free Consultation
Belal offers a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. During this, he will evaluate your claim, explain your legal options, and answer any questions you may have.
An Investigation
Belal will conduct a thorough investigation of your case, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and more.
Aggressive Negotiation
In a strong majority of cases, Lyft accident claims are resolved through negotiation with insurance companies. Belal will handle all communications with insurers, fighting for a fair settlement on your behalf.
To prove negligence in California, you must show that:
- The defendant owed you a duty of care.
- The defendant breached that duty through reckless or negligent behavior.
- The breach directly caused your injuries.
Belal Hamideh has extensive experience handling Lyft accident cases and can help you build a strong claim.
Lyft Accident Case FAQs
Q: What if the Lyft driver was not at fault for my accident?
A: Even if the Lyft driver was not at fault, you may still be able to recover compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company. Belal Hamideh can help you explore all available options.
Q: How long do I have to file a Lyft accident claim in California?
A: In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Q: Will I have to go to court for my Lyft accident?
A: Many Lyft accident cases are resolved through negotiation. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, Belal is prepared to take your case to court.
Q: How much does it cost to hire Belal Hamideh to be my Lyft accident lawyer?
A: Belal works on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless he wins your case. This allows you to pursue justice without financial stress.
If You’re Hit by a Lyft Vehicle
If you’re another motorist, pedestrian, or cyclist hit by a Lyft vehicle, you have the same rights as a Lyft passenger or driver. However, dealing with Lyft’s insurance policies can be challenging, to say the very least.
Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Lyft Vehicle
- Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Move to a safe location if possible and call 911. Even if you don’t feel injured, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. - Gather Evidence
Document the accident scene by taking photos and videos. Collect the Lyft driver’s information, including their name, contact details, and insurance information. - Report the Accident
File a police report and notify Lyft of the accident. This creates an official record of the incident. - Contact an Attorney
Lyft’s insurance policies are complex, and the company often tries to shift liability to avoid paying claims. Belal Hamideh can help you understand your rights and pursue fair compensation.
Can You Sue Lyft for an Accident?
The question of whether you can sue Lyft directly is complicated. In the past, victims of Lyft accidents could sue the company for hiring negligent drivers. However, with the passage of California Assembly Bill 5 (AB5), Lyft classifies its drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification allows Lyft to avoid liability in many cases.
That said, you may still be able to hold the Lyft driver accountable if their negligence caused the accident. Examples of negligence include:
- Speeding
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence
- Failing to obey traffic laws
Lyft’s Insurance Policies Explained
Lyft’s insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. The company divides its policies into different periods:
Offline
If the Lyft driver was not logged into the app, their personal insurance policy applies. Lyft provides no coverage in this scenario.
2. Period 1: App On, No Ride Accepted
When the driver is logged into the Lyft app but hasn’t accepted a ride, Lyft provides limited coverage:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $30,000 for property damage
3. Period 2: Ride Accepted, Passenger Not Yet Picked Up
Once the driver accepts a ride, Lyft’s coverage increases:
- $1 million in liability coverage
- $50,000 in bodily injury coverage
4. Period 3: Passenger in Vehicle
When a passenger is in the vehicle, Lyft provides:
- $1 million in liability coverage
- $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Navigating these policies can be confusing, but Belal Hamideh can help you understand which coverage applies to your case and ensure Lyft doesn’t shortchange you.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lyft Accident Claim?
The sooner you do so, the better off you’ll be. In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, you may have as little as six months to file if a government vehicle was involved. To learn more about how Belal can help, he made these videos.
Final Thoughts: Why Belal Hamideh is the Right Choice for Your Palos Verdes Lyft Accident Lawyer:
Specialized Experience in Rideshare Accidents
- Belal Hamideh has extensive experience handling Lyft accident cases, understanding the complexities of rideshare insurance policies, liability disputes, and corporate legal tactics.
- He knows how to navigate Lyft’s $1 million liability coverage and when to pursue additional compensation from at-fault parties.
Strong Knowledge of California & Local Laws
- As a California-based attorney, he is well-versed in state traffic laws, comparative negligence rules, and Palos Verdes-specific court procedures.
- Familiarity with local law enforcement, accident reporting, and insurance adjusters in the South Bay area can be a major advantage.
Aggressive Advocacy for Maximum Compensation
- Belal Hamideh fights for full compensation, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.
- He has a track record of securing strong settlements and jury verdicts for injured clients.
Contingency Fee Basis – No Upfront Costs
- Like most personal injury attorneys, he works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless he wins your case.
Personalized Attention & Strong Client Reviews
- Unlike high-volume firms that treat clients like case numbers, Belal Hamideh provides direct attorney-client communication and a hands-on approach.
- His past clients praise his dedication, responsiveness, and ability to deliver results.
Proven Success Against Insurance Companies
- Insurance companies often lowball Lyft accident victims—Belal Hamideh knows how to counter their tactics and push for a fair settlement or take the case to trial if necessary.
If you’ve been injured in a Lyft accident in Palos Verdes, hiring Belal Hamideh ensures you have a skilled, aggressive, and client-focused attorney fighting for your rights. Schedule a free case evaluation today.