A lawsuit was recently filed in Los Angeles against Lyft, the popular rideshare company. According to the lawsuit, early this year a man in Los Angeles used Lyft to get a ride to a friend’s house. On the way, a verbal dispute erupted by phone between the Lyft driver and the passenger. The lawsuit alleges that the Lyft driver pulled his vehicle over on the side of the freeway, pepper-sprayed the passenger, and kicked him out on the shoulder of the freeway. The man was later struck and killed by a hit and run vehicle.
The lawsuit alleges that although Lyft’s website claims that it makes safety the top priority, the company does not use safe practices in its hiring, training, or retention of drivers. The lawsuit alleges that the entire application process to become a driver for Lyft is done online. Although drivers are required to submit documents, Lyft allegedly does not verify that those documents are accurate.
The lawsuit claims that only three steps are necessary to become a driver for Lyft: completing an online application, undergoing a background check and driving record check, and passing a vehicle inspection. Lyft dos not conduct its own background checks, according to the lawsuit, but instead outsources those to another company. The background checks only last for seven years. The lawsuit also alleges that Lyft does not require its drivers to attend training classes or pass road vehicle tests.
The lawsuit is seeking damages from Lyft for the passenger’s death. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, you should speak with an attorney. Call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles personal injury attorney at 310-385-0567. I can help. Call my office today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation on your case.