Lyft has procedures in place for dealing with accidents, and the process can vary depending on several factors, such as who was at fault and whether the Lyft driver was on or off the clock at the time of the crash.
When you report an accident, it’s essential to understand the steps involved, as well as the potential outcomes. If you’ve been injured or your property has been damaged, understanding your legal options and how Lyft handles these situations can help you make informed decisions. Our car accident attorney can guide you through this process and help you understand your rights.
What Happens If The Lyft Driver Was On The Clock?
If the Lyft driver was actively using the app, either waiting for a ride or transporting a passenger, Lyft’s insurance coverage may come into play. In these situations, Lyft provides coverage for injuries or damages caused by their drivers. Here’s how the coverage works:
- Driver is actively transporting a passenger: If the driver was picking up or transporting passengers at the time of the accident, Lyft’s insurance is typically activated. This includes up to $1 million in liability coverage, which can help cover medical expenses, property damage, and other losses. If you were the passenger, you should be able to claim these benefits if you were injured during the ride.
- Driver is waiting for a ride request: If the driver was not actively transporting a passenger but had the app on and was available for a ride, Lyft’s insurance will cover liability up to a certain amount. This may include coverage for any injuries or damages caused during this phase, although the limits are not as high as when the driver is transporting passengers.
What If The Lyft Driver Was Off The Clock?
If the Lyft driver was not using the app or had the app off at the time of the accident, Lyft’s insurance typically will not cover the damages.
In this case, you may need to file a claim through the Lyft driver’s personal insurance or seek other legal avenues for compensation. This can be more complicated, especially if the driver’s personal insurance coverage is insufficient to cover your medical expenses or damages.
What Happens If The Lyft Driver Is At Fault?
If it’s determined that the Lyft driver was at fault for the accident that happened while they were on the clock and transporting a passenger, Lyft’s insurance policy should cover all damages. However, if the driver was off-duty, or if Lyft’s insurance coverage is insufficient, you may have to pursue compensation through the driver’s personal insurance or by filing a personal injury claim.
A Lyft accident lawyer can help you understand how to proceed in these situations, as rideshare accidents can sometimes involve complex legal issues. They can assist in negotiating with insurance companies, determining liability, and helping you file a lawsuit if necessary.
What If The Driver Denies Fault?
Sometimes, the driver may deny fault for the accident, which can make it more difficult to get compensation. In this case, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible, including police reports, witness statements, and any other information that can support your claim.
An experienced car accident and insurance attorney can help with this process, working to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests if the case goes to court.
The Importance Of Legal Representation
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a Lyft driver, working with an accident attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. An attorney can help you through the insurance claims process. They can also assist with determining who is responsible for the accident, whether it’s the Lyft driver, another driver, or a combination of parties.
Attorneys like our colleagues at Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm can attest to the importance of having an experienced legal team on your side to protect your rights after a rideshare accident. Whether you need help with an insurance claim or pursuing a lawsuit, a skilled attorney will work to secure the compensation you deserve.
