Lyft Accident? What You Need to Know About Insurance and Liability

Rideshare services like Lyft have become very popular for many people who may need a ride. However, being a passenger also comes with its own set of unique challenges, especially when it comes to accidents. If you’ve been involved in a Lyft accident, it is critical to understand what options you have. This will ensure you are properly protected and you get what you are owed.

Unique Insurance Considerations in Lyft Accidents

Understanding the insurance policies of rideshare companies is the first step in understanding a Lyft Accident. Here’s what you need to know:

• Lyft’s Liability Coverage for Drivers: Lyft has commercial liability coverage for their drivers. This is important to consider, since it is different from personal insurance.
• The “gap” in coverage between passenger and driver: Often times there is a difference between personal insurance and commercial insurance, creating what is considered a “gap” where the insurance might not cover you completely.
• The importance of underinsured/uninsured coverage: If the at-fault party does not have insurance, you’ll want to ensure you are covered by your own policies.

Steps to Take After a Lyft Accident

Knowing what to do following your accident is very important for the protection of your case:

• Reporting the accident to Lyft: You must report the accident to Lyft as soon as possible. They will have their own reporting procedure that you must adhere to.
• Documenting the crash (pictures, police report, etc): Take as many pictures of the scene as you can. Also, make sure to have a police report filed.
• Seeking medical help: Make sure to get the necessary medical attention that you need.

Who is Liable in a Lyft Accident?

Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, you’ll need to figure out who is the at-fault party:

• The Lyft Driver: You may have a case against the Lyft driver if they were at fault for the accident.
• Another driver: If another driver was at fault for the accident, then they will be the liable party.
• A third party: In some instances, you may have a case against another party, such as a maintenance company or a manufacturer of a defective part.

How a Specialized Lyft Lawyer Can Help

A lawyer who is well-versed in handling rideshare accidents will help you better navigate the claim process:

• Navigating the multiple insurance policies involved: They will be able to sort through the different insurance policies, and decide which one to claim against.
• Negotiating with Lyft and its insurers: They will be able to communicate with Lyft and their insurance companies to help get you the fair settlement that you deserve.

Common Causes of Lyft Accidents

Like most types of vehicle accidents, here are some of the most common reasons that rideshare accidents occur:

• Driver Fatigue: Due to the nature of the job, many rideshare drivers can be fatigued, which can cause accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Like with all types of drivers, distracted driving can cause major problems.
• Driver Inexperience: Since most rideshare drivers are simply regular drivers, they might not be as experienced as a professional driver.

If you’ve been in a Lyft accident, contact a qualified legal professional to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.

Disclaimer: *The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.*