The Dark Side of Rideshare Injury Law: Allegations of Exploitation and Needless Surgeries at DTLA Law Group
The pursuit of justice after an accident involving a rideshare company like Uber or a delivery app like Instacart should be straightforward. However, a growing number of former clients are alleging a disturbing pattern of exploitation and questionable medical practices linked to the Los Angeles-based law firm, DTLA Law Group. These allegations, detailed in complaints to the State Bar and a significant racketeering lawsuit filed by Uber, paint a troubling picture of a system possibly prioritizing profit over patient well-being.
This article delves into the accusations against DTLA Law Group, the controversy surrounding affiliated surgeon Dr. Greg khounganian, and the broader implications for individuals seeking legal recourse after rideshare-related injuries.
Mounting Complaints & A Significant Settlement Cut
Several former clients have come forward with similar stories. They claim DTLA Law Group pressured them into undergoing medical procedures, often with specific doctors, and retained a disproportionately large percentage of their settlements.
* One client reported the firm took 77% of her $175,000 settlement, leaving her to fight for the remaining funds.
* Clients allege being steered towards particular Los Angeles-based doctors,even when residing out of state,under the guise of cost savings.
* These complaints highlight a concerning trend of potential financial exploitation within the legal process.
Uber’s Racketeering Lawsuit: Inflated Bills & Unnecessary Procedures
Uber has taken direct legal action, filing a racketeering lawsuit against DTLA Law Group and Dr. Khounganian. The suit alleges a “side agreement” existed to inflate medical bills for unnecessary procedures, specifically spinal fusions.
* Uber claims patients were subjected to lengthy and painful recovery periods to maximize settlement amounts.
* The lawsuit alleges bill inflation reaching as high as 640% in some cases.
* Moreover, Uber contends that Dr. Khounganian woudl reduce liens on cases that didn’t settle for substantial amounts, incentivizing a cycle of inflated claims.
DTLA Law Group vehemently denies these allegations, dismissing the lawsuit as a “calculated attempt by a billion-dollar corporation” to suppress legitimate claims. Dr. Khounganian’s attorney maintains his spotless professional record and argues the lawsuit is part of Uber’s broader strategy to avoid liability.
The human Cost: Stories of Pain and Financial Strain
Beyond the legal battles, the most concerning aspect of these allegations is the impact on the individuals involved.
* one client with a pre-existing heart condition experienced a significant decline in mobility after surgery, allegedly pushed by the firm.
* Christy Strickland, an Instacart driver, was flown from Texas for treatment, incurring over $10,000 in expenses - including substantial Uber ride costs – that were deducted from her settlement without clear prior notification.
* clients express feelings of being trapped in a “nightmare,” struggling with ongoing pain and financial hardship after undergoing procedures they now question.
One client poignantly emailed her attorney, stating, “Do you know how it feels to wake up in the morning and your back hurts so bad all you can do is just lay there until it subsides?” This raw emotion underscores the devastating consequences of potentially unnecessary medical interventions.
A Firm’s Public Image vs. Client Experiences
Despite the mounting accusations, DTLA Law Group’s founder, Sam Yaghoubtil, publicly emphasizes a client-centric approach. In a recent podcast appearance, he stated his firm’s focus is on client well-being, not high-dollar verdicts. He proclaimed, “We love a client… If we have to, we’ll go down fighting with them.”
However, this public image sharply contrasts with the experiences shared by numerous former clients, raising serious questions about the firm’s actual practices.
What This Means for Rideshare Accident Victims
This situation serves as a critical warning for anyone involved in a rideshare or delivery app accident.
* Seek self-reliant medical advice: Don’t rely solely on doctors recommended by your law firm.Obtain a second opinion from a physician of your choosing.
* Understand all costs: Demand a clear and detailed breakdown of all expenses related to your case, including medical bills, travel costs, and legal fees.
* Be wary of pressure: Never feel pressured into undergoing medical procedures you don’t fully understand or are uncomfortable with.
* research your legal representation: Thoroughly investigate any law firm before
