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Yes, Lyft offers insurance coverage for accidents under specific conditions. The driver’s status determines the extent of coverage—whether they are logged into the app, awaiting a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger.
Millions of people use Lyft daily for convenience as it makes getting around easier. However, with the influx of ridesharing vehicles on the road, accidents related to these services are becoming more prevalent. In the event of an accident, it’s important that you are aware of your rights. Unfortunately, many victims do not know that they may be eligible to recover compensation.
If you or a loved one was injured in a Lyft accident, you must hold the negligent parties accountable for your pain and suffering. Depending on the circumstances, Lyft does pay for accidents when its drivers are involved. The company’s third-party liability insurance pays victims a maximum amount of $1 million.
Understanding the laws that govern rideshare services can help you make informed decisions in the event of a crash. You have to remember that Lyft’s insurance policies differ from those covering other types of accidents. Knowing these differences is essential in filing a claim to recover damages.
Some Lyft accident claimants receive less than they deserve. With the help of good lawyers who work on Lyft accident claims, you can ensure that this doesn’t happen to you and that your injuries and losses are covered to the fullest extent possible.
Does Lyft Compensate Injured Victims After An Accident?
While Lyft does provide insurance coverage in times of accidents involving its drivers, accident victims cannot just ask the company for compensation. The situation is not always straightforward, and various factors need to be considered.
The legal rule of vicarious liability holds companies directly liable for the negligence of their employees during work. However, under California’s Proposition 22, Lyft drivers are treated as independent contractors, not employees. This business model has a huge implication in holding the company liable for accidents caused by its drivers. Therefore, in accidents where the Lyft drivers are fully responsible, particularly when they’re “off the clock” or not working, the driver’s personal liability insurance will apply.
Lyft drivers, just like any motorists in California, are required by law to carry liability coverage with the following minimum limits:
- $15,000 for bodily injury per person
- $30,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $5,000 for property damage
Regardless, state law still requires Lyft to carry liability insurance, especially if its drivers are at fault in an accident while working or using the rideshare app. This is how the rideshare giant can compensate injured victims for damages during accidents. Whether this coverage applies or not depends on the specific circumstances of the accident.
Also, California Assembly Bill No. 2293 mandates that transportation network companies like Lyft must inform their drivers about their insurance coverage and liability limits.
What Is A Lyft Accident?
A Lyft accident refers to any traffic crash involving a Lyft vehicle. The following are common Lyft accident scenarios:
- A Lyft driver hits your vehicle while you are driving.
- The Lyft you are riding as a passenger collides with another vehicle or crashes into an object.
- You are a pedestrian struck by Lyft while walking.
- A Lyft hits you while you are riding a bicycle or a motorcycle.
- The bus you are riding on is hit by a Lyft vehicle.
Regardless of the scenario, victims of Lyft accidents will likely sustain injuries and ask the same question, “Does Lyft pay for my damages?”
Is Lyft Responsible For Passenger Injuries?
Lyft can be responsible for passenger injuries under certain circumstances:
Driver’s Status
Lyft’s insurance coverage varies based on the driver’s status and only applies when the driver is logged into the app. There is only limited liability coverage when the driver is logged in but has not accepted a ride request. When a driver is en route to pick up a passenger, the policy offers higher coverage. When a passenger is in the vehicle, Lyft’s insurance provides the highest level of coverage, generally covering injuries in the event of an accident.
Negligent Hiring And Retention
Lyft may be liable for passenger injuries if the company engages in negligent hiring or retention. All drivers must pass an initial and annual background check, and Lyft continuously monitors for criminal convictions. However, if Lyft fails to conduct thorough checks and hires a driver with a history of dangerous behavior or retains a driver despite multiple complaints, the company can be held responsible if that driver causes an accident.
To elaborate, if Lyft fails to take action on passenger reports of a driver’s dangerous behavior, the company could be held responsible if the driver later causes an accident. In such cases, Lyft may be liable for compensating the victim’s damages.
Who Could Be Held Liable In A Lyft Accident?
Lyft drivers may be held liable for injuries and damages if their negligence leads to an accident. While victims generally cannot sue Lyft directly since its drivers are independent contractors rather than employees, the ridesharing company’s $1 million commercial policy can provide additional coverage, provided the damages exceed the driver’s insurance coverage, and the driver was actively working during the accident.
If a third-party driver was involved and the rideshare driver was not at fault, the injured passenger may hold the at-fault driver liable and receive compensation from them. In case the negligent driver has insufficient or no insurance at all, Lyft’s UM/UIM insurance may kick in.
Lyft accidents can be complex, but several options are provided for victims seeking compensation for their injuries. However, although multiple insurance policies might cover losses after a crash, the victim may need a reputable personal injury law firm to determine all possible avenues for compensation.
What Insurance Policy Applies If You’re Injured In A Lyft Accident?
Insurance laws for rideshare services vary by state. Generally, Lyft offers several types of liability insurance coverage. The specific insurance policy that will apply depends on the driver’s activity when the accident occurred. The driver’s time is divided into these four periods:
- Period 0 — When a Lyft driver is not actively logged into the Lyft app at the time of the accident, Lyft’s insurance coverage will not apply. In this case, as mentioned above, you must pursue compensation through the driver’s auto insurance policy.
- Period 1 — When drivers are on duty waiting for passengers to be picked up, Lyft’s insurance policy covers up to $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, $50,000 per person for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Period 2 — Lyft’s maximum third-party liability coverage is $1 million when the app is on and the driver is en route to pick up a passenger.
- Period 3 — The same coverage as Period 2 applies when drivers are transporting passengers.
Car accidents involving rideshare services are highly complex. Hiring a lawyer specializing in Lyft accidents can help you understand the rideshare company’s insurance coverage specifics.
How To Prove Negligence In Lyft Accident Cases?
As discussed, the financial compensation you can receive from an accident involving Lyft depends on the facts of the case. You must first establish liability, and that requires demonstrating that the Lyft driver or another party was negligent. The four elements of negligence you must prove are:
- Duty of Care—A duty of care must be established between you and the at-fault party. This duty to drive safely and comply with traffic laws applies to all motorists, including Lyft drivers.
- Breach Of Duty — You must prove that the driver violated their duty to drive safely. This could include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, running a red light, speeding, distracted driving, and any other behaviors violating traffic laws and safe driving practices.
- Causation — Causation involves proving that the Lyft driver’s breach of duty directly caused your injuries. It’s not enough to show that the driver was negligent; you must link their negligence to the accident and your resulting injuries. This can be established through evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony.
- Damages — You also need to prove that the accident caused damages, which may include injuries, property damage, etc.
All these elements must be established. Only then can the pursuit of financial recovery for accident victims move forward.
Compensation Available For Injured Lyft Accident Victims
If your injury is severe, you will likely receive a higher settlement. If you only suffered bruises and cuts and could return to work right away, you probably won’t receive much compensation since the accident didn’t affect your life in a major way.
Here are the different types of damages you may be entitled to recover after a Lyft accident:
- Medical Bills — These are ongoing and future medical expenses, including surgery, hospitalization, doctor’s visits, rehabilitation, physical therapy, medical equipment, and prescription medication.
- Lost Wages — In addition to the wages you lost due to your injury, you can seek compensation for future lost earnings and a reduction in earning capacity.
- Property Damage—If your motor vehicle, mobile phone, clothes, or other property is damaged, you may be able to recover compensation for the cost of repairing or replacing it.
- Pain And Suffering — Compensation will be sought for physical pain, mental suffering, emotional distress, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), fear, depression, and reduced quality of life.
If your loved one tragically passed away in a Lyft accident, an attorney can help your family seek justice by filing a wrongful death claim. Although no amount of money can make up for your loss, monetary compensation aims to help ease the burden during this difficult time. Your personal injury lawyer will ensure you have the necessary resources to move forward.
Top Causes Of Lyft Accidents
Lyft accidents can stem from various factors—some intentional, others unintentional. Most are due to driver errors or negligence. The cause of the accident significantly impacts the outcome, including the severity of the crash and who can be held liable.
Inexperienced Drivers
Lyft’s minimum driver requirements might not always guarantee sufficient driving experience, especially in complex or high-traffic environments. Inexperienced drivers may struggle with navigation, traffic rules, and handling unexpected situations, making them more prone to accidents.
Speeding
Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast is a common cause of accidents. Speeding on icy roads or in heavy traffic can lead to dangerous skids and collisions, reducing the driver’s ability to react promptly to sudden changes.
Distractions
Drivers can be distracted by various activities, including checking for new ride requests, using GPS, and engaging with their phones. These distractions divert attention from the road and can lead to accidents.
Reckless Driving
Lyft accidents can occur when drivers engage in reckless behaviors such as racing each other, weaving through traffic, and disregarding traffic laws. They may also engage in aggressive driving to pick up more passengers quickly, increasing the risk of collisions.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Alcohol or drugs severely impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and motor skills. Driving a vehicle under the influence of these substances significantly increases the likelihood of accidents and brings severe consequences for drivers and passengers.
Traffic Violations
Disobeying traffic signals and signs, such as running red lights or failing to yield, amplifies the likelihood of car crashes. These violations often result from impatience or a lack of attention on the road.
Fatigue
Fatigue impairs concentration, slows reaction times, and boosts the likelihood of falling asleep at the wheel. This can result from long working hours, inadequate rest, or sleep disorders, all of which endanger drivers and passengers alike.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Vehicles must meet specific standards before being used. After the initial inspection, the driver is responsible for ongoing maintenance. Neglected maintenance can lead to breakdowns or equipment failures, such as worn-out brakes or tires, posing significant dangers on the road.
Usual Types Of Lyft Accidents
From minor fender benders to severe head-on collisions, Lyft accidents can occur in various ways:
- T-Bone Accidents — These accidents are especially dangerous for drivers and passengers in high-impact collisions. Drivers who make illegal U-turns or fail to pay attention at intersections may cause T-bone accidents.
- Rear-End Collisions — Lyft drivers who are impatient to reach their destinations are often involved in rear-end collisions. This happens when they tailgate, in which their vehicle drives too close to the vehicle in front.
- Side-Swipes — A side-swipe accident occurs when a Lyft driver attempts to change lanes without checking to see if it’s safe. Misreading the GPS and attempting to avoid traffic congestion at the last minute are also common causes of such accidents.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents—Some drivers may hit another party and flee the accident scene for fear of punishment. Such actions are illegal and can complicate liability for both Lyft and its insurance providers.
- Single-Car Accidents — Not all car accidents involve two vehicles. Sometimes, Lyft drivers may hit stationary objects due to reckless driving. This type of accident involves only one vehicle, making it simpler for insurance companies to handle.
Navigating the legal complexities following a Lyft accident can be daunting. Personal injury lawyers play a crucial role in these cases, as they have expertise in the specific laws and regulations that govern ridesharing services. They can ensure that the rights of the injured parties are protected and that all legal avenues are explored to obtain justice and compensation.
Most Common Injuries In Lyft Accidents
Lyft vehicles are typically regular passenger cars, offering less accident protection than larger vehicles like big rigs. Victims can sustain varying types of injuries after Lyft accidents, including the following:
- Dislocated, fractured, or broken bone
- Disfigurement
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Organ damage or internal bleeding
If you sustained any of these injuries in a Lyft accident, a personal injury law firm can help you make Lyft pay for the resulting damages. In fact, hiring an accident lawyer handling Lyft claims ensures you receive the compensation you deserve for all your injuries and losses.
What Should You Do After A Lyft Accident?
Being involved in an accident while riding a Lyft can be stressful and confusing. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to know what to do immediately after getting in one to ensure your safety and protect your rights. Whether you’re just trying to get to work or go somewhere else, an accident can happen when you least expect it.
Ensure Safety First
Immediately check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911, especially if anyone is hurt. If it’s safe, move to the side of the road to avoid further danger.
Call Emergency Services
Call emergency services and report the accident. Provide them with your location and details about the situation. This will ensure that medical assistance and police are on their way.
Gather Information
Note the Lyft driver’s name, contact information, and vehicle details (make, model, and license plate number). Record the date, time, location, and a brief description of what happened. If there are any witnesses, get their names and contact information as well.
Document The Scene
Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. A video of the scene can also be useful to capture more context.
Report The Accident To Lyft
Open the Lyft app and report the accident. Follow the prompts to provide the necessary details. You may also contact Lyft customer support directly for assistance.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it’s imperative to get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Keep all medical records and follow up on any recommended treatment.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your own auto insurance company to report the accident and get guidance on the next steps.
Consult With An Attorney
Consider consulting a personal injury attorney, especially if there are significant damages or injuries. They can help you understand your rights and navigate claims successfully.
How To File A Personal Injury Claim
A personal injury claim is usually initiated after your attorney thoroughly investigates the accident to determine all potentially liable parties. Such a claim is filed to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, vehicle damage, and other losses from their insurance provider.
Even before your medical condition reaches maximum improvement (and with ongoing treatment), your Lyft accident lawyer will determine the value of your claim based on your losses, the severity of your injuries, and other factors. Your Lyft accident attorney will then file a claim against the liability insurance policy of the at-fault party(s). After this, the insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to handle your case.
The adjuster will review the claim, interview the involved parties, and make a decision to:
- Accept liability for the insured’s actions and process your claim
- Reject the claim and provide reasons for the denial
- Offer a settlement outside of court, which may be lower than the claimed amount
While personal injury claims often settle out of court, initial offers from insurance providers are frequently lower than the full value of your damages. It’s important to note that these claim adjusters work for the insurance company, whose primary objective is to minimize payouts and protect their financial interests when assessing claim validity and compensation amounts.
Your Lyft accident lawyer can help negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. If the insurance company refuses to pay or a fair agreement cannot be reached, you and your lawyer may proceed with filing a personal injury lawsuit in court.
Statute Of Limitations For Lyft Accident Claims And Lawsuits
The statute of limitations for Lyft accident lawsuits varies by state. For example, in California, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the incident. After this period, victims typically can no longer seek compensation.
Certain exceptions to these rules apply. If the victim is a minor, the time limit may be tolled or paused until the victim turns 18. Attorneys for Lyft accident victims can help you file your case on time and ensure you don’t miss the deadline.
Laws And Regulations Concerning Lyft
Aside from insurance policies, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) also enacted laws and regulations to further protect Lyft passengers. These regulations include:
- The Lyft decal must be clearly displayed on the front and back windshields of rideshare vehicles when the drivers actively use the app.
- Drivers of ridesharing services are required to pass a background check every year.
- Vehicles used for ridesharing must meet strict emissions standards, and the number of zero-emission vehicles used by drivers must increase.
- Drivers must submit their vehicles for a mandatory vehicle inspection check every 12 months or 50,000 miles.
- It is unlawful for Lyft drivers to refuse pick-ups for passengers with service dogs or require proof that the dog is a service animal since this would constitute discrimination.
Lyft Accident Statistics
According to Lyft’s latest safety report, only a small percentage of rides involved accidents with its drivers. In 2019, Lyft partnered with the National Safety Council to enhance safety measures. However, research indicates that the proliferation of ridesharing services has contributed significantly to increased motor vehicle accidents.
A study by the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) revealed that ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft caused a 1% rise in traffic congestion and a 4% increase in congestion duration. With more vehicles on the road, the likelihood of traffic accidents rises. In fact, a study from the University of Chicago showed that ridesharing services are directly linked to a 3% rise in fatal car crashes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Insurance cover Lyft Passengers?
As a passenger, it’s natural to wonder if you are protected by Insurance while using Lyft. Fortunately, Lyft and its drivers maintain specific insurance policies designed to safeguard passengers during their rides. These policies offer varying levels of coverage, which may include emergency medical expenses and compensation for physical damages resulting from an accident. At Arash Law, we’re well-versed in navigating these insurance complexities to ensure that our clients receive the full benefits they’re entitled to. Furthermore, our experience extends to handling cases involving Lyft’s premium services, which often include comprehensive and third-party liability insurance, providing additional security and peace of mind for passengers throughout California.
How Is Fault Determined In A Lyft Accident?
You must demonstrate that a negligent driver breached their duty of care and caused the accident. To do this, you will need solid evidence. A lawyer who specializes in Lyft accidents can help you with this by gathering and analyzing crucial pieces of evidence to strengthen your claim.
How Are Settlement Values Calculated?
The amount of a Lyft accident settlement depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- The amount owed on your medical bills
- How the car accident has impacted your income and career
- How the car accident affected your quality of life
In cases involving serious injuries, extensive financial losses, and dramatically altered quality of life, the lawyer who handles Lyft accidents can seek a higher settlement. Even if your injuries don’t seem severe, they can help secure a settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses.
How Do I Know How Much My Case Is Worth?
It is difficult to determine the value of your case until you have discussed the details with a personal injury lawyer. Given the fact that Lyft drivers are insured for at least $1 million, the first thing you should do after an accident involving Lyft (after getting medical care) is to immediately contact an established injury attorney with a proven track record. After evaluating the extent of your injuries and the circumstances of the crash, a lawyer experienced in handling Lyft accidents can give you a better idea of the potential settlement amount you might be entitled to.
Can I File A Lyft Accident Claim If I Am An Undocumented Immigrant?
Your immigration status has nothing to do with your ability to file a personal injury lawsuit. You can file a claim if you suffer an injury in a Lyft accident. Experienced attorneys who handle Lyft accident cases will protect your rights and help you obtain the maximum compensation possible.
How Much Does A Lyft Accident Attorney Cost?
Payment schemes vary between law firms. At Arash Law, you don’t have to worry about upfront payments. Your financial situation is already difficult; we won’t add to it. Our injury law firm operates on a contingency basis, so you don’t owe us anything unless we recover compensation on your behalf. If we don’t win, then you don’t have to pay.
Injured In A Lyft Accident? Secure Your Compensation With Arash Law!
Are you wondering how a Lyft accident attorney can assist you? At Arash Law, we’re committed to easing your burden and securing the compensation you deserve. Our comprehensive services begin with establishing fault—we meticulously analyze all evidence, from photos and witness reports to medical records and insurance details.
Our Lyft accident lawyers offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your options. Beyond advice, we formulate strategic approaches, ensuring we’re prepared to negotiate fiercely on your behalf. Our industry-recognized injury firm has the expertise to handle negotiations with assertive insurance companies and oversee high-stakes policies, such as the $1 million coverage that Lyft drivers maintain. Insurance companies often resist payment, but our experts excel at securing fair settlements outside of court, protecting your rights and interests throughout.
You deserve compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Our personal injury lawyers are dedicated to achieving justice and easing your recovery process. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 for your free consultation, and let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing.
Our injury lawyers are ready to assist you anytime and will happily answer any questions you may have about the legal process. Car accident lawyers will help you make the right decision for you and your family. We offer our services throughout California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, Long Beach, Oakland, Bakersfield, Anaheim, Stockton, Riverside, Irvine, Santa Ana, and Chula Vista.
