Like any rideshare service, there comes a risk of car accidents. When you are involved in an accident with a rideshare service, such as Lyft, the process is a little different than your typical car accident case. It's crucial to get an attorney to help you with your accident case. For questions regarding a rideshare accident, contact Brooks Injury Law.
Accidents While Riding with Lyft
Lyft launched in 2012 and originated from a different ridesharing service that focused solely on college campuses and traveled to different cities. The original rideshare service called Zimride was inspired by a taxi service offered in Zimbabwe that one of the founders used while vacationing. When he returned to the United States he wanted to create a similar service, which eventually turned into Lyft. Lyft was designed to focus on shorter trips within the same city, very similar to Uber. Though it originally began in San Francisco, as of 2017, the Lyft service is now offered in 300 U.S. cities. With Lyft becoming a more popular option for rides, the opportunity for car accidents is on the rise as well.
Who is Responsible for a Lyft Accident?
When lawsuits occur regarding a Lyft accident, you are typically going after the driver rather than the company itself. These drivers are considered independent contractors rather than employees, so therefore the company tends to deny any legal liability for any type of accident involving their drivers. Below we have listed different accident scenarios and who would be considered responsible.
- If you are on a Lyft trip as a passenger and your driver gets into an accident and it is THEIR fault, you are covered under Lyft's one-million-dollar insurance policy.
- If you are another driver on the road or a pedestrian and are involved in an accident with a Lyft driver when they are OFF duty, Lyft's insurance does NOT cover it. You would then be going after the driver's personal policy instead.
- If you are another driver on the road or a pedestrian and are involved in an accident with a Lyft driver when they are ON duty but is NOT carrying a passenger, this again would go against the driver's personal insurance.
- If you are involved in an accident as another driver or a pedestrian with an Lyft driver WHILE they have a passenger, the company's insurance will come into play.
All of this information can be confusing and overwhelming, so it is imperative that you contact an attorney that has experience with rideshare accidents and third party claims. Our team at Brooks Injury Law is prepared to answer your questions and get you the help you need regarding your Lyft accident.
What to do After a Lyft Accident
1. Call 911 Call 911
Like any car accident, it is important to always get a police report so there is legal record of it happening. If you are injured, get medical attention immediately and keep record of any hospital visits and bills.
2. Take Pictures Take Pictures
If possible, take your own pictures at the scene so you can have them for personal record and for use in the future if needed.
3. Get Information Get Witness Information
It's smart to have a list of witnesses that can vouch for you in the case that someone tries to deny the accident - whether that be the rideshare driver or the company. If possible, gather witness information including their name, phone number, and email address.
4. Save Receipt Save Your Ride Receipt
Rideshare services are luckily conducted on an app so it makes it easy to save your ride receipt. Make sure that you screen shot the receipt so it doesn't get lost and you always have proof of your ride. It will show your drivers name, the time your trip started, and where you were picked up. All of this information can help with further investigation of your accident claim.
5. Seek Get Legal Help
This step is crucial when you are involved in a rideshare accident. These accidents are handled differently than regular car crashes and attorneys know the correct process to take. Evidence of your ride MUST be preserved, so that's why it's important to seek an attorney that can help you notify the company that you were riding with. Never pay for consultations, but instead find an experienced firm that will listen to your case free of cost, like Brooks Injury Law.
Rideshare Accidents
- Uber Accidents
- Lyft Accidents
