Ride services have taken over the 21st century, making everyday life so much easier. From grocery runs to safely bringing you home after drinking, transportation is one click away.
Uber and Lyft are two of the most common ride-hailing apps, catering to over 300 U.S cities. While anyone can apply to be a driver, Lyft vets its employees on their driving records and background checks.
But what happens if your Lyft driver gets in an accident? A Lyft accident report has shown that ride-hailing apps are responsible for the 3% increase in fatal accidents, for those in the vehicle and pedestrians.
Passengers who suffer a personal injury in a motor vehicle accident can potentially seek legal action depending on the circumstances in which the crash occurred. Whether you are currently suffering from an injury sustained from a ride service or just an avid passenger it is crucial to understand your legal rights as a user.
Can You Sue Lyft For an Accident?
When determining the grounds of your personal injury case, a Lyft accident attorney will help you establish who is responsible for the crash. Most often the responsible parties in a Lyft accident would be:
- The driver of your vehicle
- The driver of another vehicle
In some cases, such as a rear-end collision or another vehicle running a red light, your driver may not be at fault. If this occurs, you may pursue legal action with the driver of another vehicle.
However, in other cases, a Lyft driver may be found accountable for reckless or distracted driving. For example, if your driver crashes into another car due to texting and driving, you may file a claim against them as they breached their duty of care. Wrongful death claims may also be valid for those who lost a loved one due to the carelessness of a Lyft driver.
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you could sue Lyft for accidents caused by their driver if the corporation played a role in the collision. Although ride-hailing services make sure their drivers met certain criteria, the process is not foolproof. Some individuals have found deceptive ways around the background and car checks, leading to unsafe situations for passengers. A knowledgeable attorney will examine the facts in the personal injury case to determine if Lyft knowingly or carelessly played a role in the incident.
I Was a Passenger in a Lyft Accident, Will Insurance Cover Me?
Lyft may be able to assist you in a personal injury case by providing insurance coverage for your medical needs or property damage. Article Seven of the California Public Utilities Code accounts for transportation network companies. According to California’s bill, Lyft must have a liability coverage of $1 million covering the passenger from the time a ride match is accepted, to the point at which the passenger exits the vehicle.
However, victims of a collision should not try to settle with Lyft directly without a legal consult. While insurance companies typically cover you, they will relentlessly search for concrete evidence in hopes to collect premiums and deny or minimize your claims. In order to maximize your compensation, turn to an accident attorney who can help you gather evidence to fight against Lyft in a settlement or trial.
What to Do If Lyft Driver Gets in Accident?
Victims of a car crash must remain as calm as possible and act carefully. If possible the following steps can help.
- Evaluate the situation: Are you injured? Are you able to move? Are there any other injured victims? If possible, use your phone to call for help, or attempt to yell for assistance from nearby civilians.
- Seek medical attention: Even if the injury does not seem pressing, it is advised that you see a medical professional.
- Gather evidence: Although a lawsuit may be the last thing on your mind, gathering photos, copies of medical bills, witness information, and other evidence may allow you to be prepared in the future event of a lawsuit
- Contact a car accident lawyer (Victorville, LA, Irvine): Personal injury lawyers can advise you on how to proceed with insurance claims and lawsuits. The Law Office of John J. Perlstein will listen to the facts of your case and be an advocate for you in your time of need.
Hiring an Accident Attorney- Victorville and Surrounding Areas
In the event of a Lyft accident it is recommended you proceed with an experienced personal injury or wrongful death attorney, as opposed to dealing with an insurance company on your own. From settlements to trials, The Law Office of John J. Perlstein will work hard to secure full compensation for your pain and suffering. Because we place your well-being first, our services are offered with contingency fees to account for your other financial obligations of growing medical bills and lost incomes.
For a free consult on your personal injury case, contact a Lyft accident attorney in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Let us help you fight for every dollar you deserve.