Lyft accidents are not uncommon, and they come with their own legal complexities. If you have been injured as a result of a Lyft driver’s negligence, seeking skilled legal guidance early on is always the best approach. An experienced Butler car accident lawyer at Conlon Tarker welcomes the opportunity to make a big difference in the outcome of your claim.
The Lyft Driver Behind the Wheel
The Lyft driver who is responsible for transporting you from one spot to another is paid to do so, but isn’t a professional driver in any other sense. They also face unique driving challenges that can increase the likelihood of accidents. These include all the following:
- Interacting with the Lyft app, locating safe pickup and drop-off spots, and finding passengers in their midst can all be dangerously distracting.
- Lyft drivers are paid in direct relation to how many successful trips they complete, and some push the boundaries of safety in pursuit of higher earnings.
- Lyft drivers are required to make frequent stops and to enter and exit traffic flow, which are instances when accidents are more likely.
Your Lyft Accident Claim
The primary difference between Lyft accident and other car accident claims comes down to the insurance coverage, which depends on where the driver is in the Lyft work cycle.
The Lyft Driver Has a Passenger
If the Lyft driver has a passenger in their vehicle or is on their way to pick one up, Lyft’s insurance coverage applies. This is true whether you are injured as a passenger or not, and you can expect the coverage limits that apply to be robust.
The Lyft Driver is on the App with No Passenger
If the Lyft driver is on the app but waiting for a driving assignment, insurance coverage becomes more complicated. To begin, you will file your claim with the driver’s personal coverage, which they are required to carry to drive for Lyft.
If your losses, however, exceed the driver’s coverage limits, you’ll also need to file with Lyft’s provider. In other words, if the accident is serious, you may be required to file your claim with two separate insurance companies, which makes an already challenging situation more so.
The Lyft Driver is No Longer on the App
Once the Lyft driver toggles off the app, even if they do so for just a moment, Lyft’s insurance company will no longer play a role. At this point, your claim becomes just like any other car accident claim that is based on driver negligence, like distraction, excess speed, or impairment.
Discuss Your Claim with an Experienced Lyft Accident Attorney Today
The dedicated accident lawyers at Conlon Tarker have extensive experience helping our clients achieve optimal claim outcomes, and we are committed to doing the same for you. Contact us online or call us at 724-285-7700 today.
