What Happens If Your Lyft Driver Gets Into an Accident?

Rideshare services like Lyft have made transportation easier, but accidents still happen. If you’re in a Lyft and the driver gets into an accident, it’s important to know what steps to take next and what your options are for seeking compensation. Here’s a breakdown of what happens if your Lyft driver gets into an accident.

Immediate Actions After the Accident

Your safety is the most important thing after an accident. If you’re in a Lyft and a crash occurs, the first thing to do is make sure everyone is okay. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical help. Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s still a good idea to get checked out by a doctor because injuries might not show up right away.

If possible, have the Lyft driver move the vehicle to a safe place away from traffic. This can help prevent further accidents or injuries. After you’re safe, exchange insurance information with the Lyft driver and anyone else involved in the accident. It’s also important to take photos of the scene. Document any damage to the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well. All of this can be useful later when filing an insurance claim or talking to a lawyer.

Contact the Police

It’s important to contact the police even if the accident seems minor. An official police report can help you later if you need to prove what happened or if you’re filing an insurance claim. The police will document the scene, and their report will be an important part of any legal process. Make sure you get the report number and keep it handy.

Reporting the Accident to Lyft

Once you’re safe and the necessary information is collected, it’s time to report the accident to Lyft. You can do this directly through the Lyft app. Simply follow the instructions to report the accident and provide any details about what happened. Lyft may investigate the incident and provide support during the claims process.

Lyft’s Insurance Coverage

When an accident happens in a Lyft, the insurance situation can be tricky. Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, which means they use their personal car for work. However, Lyft provides insurance coverage to protect both drivers and passengers.

The amount of coverage depends on the situation. If your Lyft driver is at fault, Lyft’s insurance may cover the damages. Their insurance includes up to $1 million in liability coverage, but it’s only available when the driver is active on the app and has accepted a ride. If the Lyft driver is not at fault and the other driver’s insurance isn’t enough, Lyft may also offer uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which helps if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your injuries or damages.

If the other driver is at fault, their insurance should cover the damages. If their insurance isn’t enough, or if they don’t have insurance at all, you may need to turn to Lyft’s insurance to help cover the cost.

Can You Sue Lyft?

In most cases, if you’re a passenger in a Lyft and an accident happens, you can’t sue Lyft directly. This is because Lyft drivers are independent contractors, not employees. However, if the driver was negligent or if Lyft failed to follow proper procedures, you might be able to file a lawsuit. It’s a good idea to speak to a lawyer if you think you have a case against Lyft or the driver.

What to Do if You Are Injured

If you’re injured in a Lyft accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s important to contact a lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases as soon as possible. They can help you navigate the claims process and make sure you receive fair compensation.

Need Legal Assistance?

Accidents involving Lyft drivers can be complicated, especially when it comes to insurance and liability. However, if you follow the steps outlined above—ensuring safety, reporting the incident, documenting the scene, and contacting Lyft—you’ll be better prepared to handle the situation. If you’re injured, it’s essential to consult with an experienced lawyer to make sure your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been involved in a Lyft accident and need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to D2 Law for a free consultation. Call (800) 790-5641 today to discuss your case.