How Does Lyft Handle Accidents?

Rideshare services like Lyft make transportation easy, but when an accident happens, things can get complicated fast. How can you expect Lyft to respond when a crash happens?

Lyft handles accidents by investigating the incident, contacting the injured parties, and then issuing a settlement offer or denial.

Rideshare accident claims are far from simple. Between Lyft’s corporate lawyers, insurance companies, and third-party liability disputes, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. A Charleston rideshare accident lawyer can handle your claim and secure the compensation you deserve.

How Does Lyft Handle an Accident?

When a Lyft accident occurs, the company requires drivers to report the crash through the app as soon as possible. Lyft’s claims department then reviews the report and contacts everyone involved in the accident to collect statements.

From there, Lyft typically:

• Launches an internal investigation: The company gathers details about how the crash occurred and which insurance policies apply.
• Coordinates with insurance providers: Lyft’s insurance team communicates with the driver’s personal insurer and any third-party insurers involved.
• Determines coverage eligibility: Based on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the crash, Lyft decides whether its insurance applies.
• Contacts injured parties: Lyft’s claims adjusters reach out to those involved in the crash to gather their version of events and assess potential claims.
• Issues a settlement offer or denial: After reviewing the evidence, Lyft or its insurer may make a settlement offer or deny the claim if they believe another party is responsible.

After a crash, Lyft might seem like it wants to help, but remember that its goal is to limit its financial exposure, not to look out for your best interests. Be cautious about what you say to Lyft representatives or insurance adjusters before consulting a lawyer.

How Does Lyft’s Insurance Coverage Work?

Lyft’s insurance coverage varies based on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident. The company uses a three-tiered system:

• Driver is offline: When the app is off, Lyft provides no coverage. Only the driver’s personal insurance applies in this scenario.
• Driver is online and waiting for a ride: Lyft provides limited coverage, typically up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.
• Driver is en route or has a passenger: Lyft’s $1 million liability policy kicks in, covering injuries and damages caused by the driver. It also includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in case you get hit by an uninsured driver.

Who Pays for a Lyft Accident?

Who pays for a Lyft accident depends on who was at fault and the stage of the ride at which the crash occurred. Here’s a breakdown of how fault works in these incidents:

• If the Lyft driver caused the crash: Lyft’s insurance (or the driver’s personal insurer, depending on their status in the app) may cover your damages.
• If another driver was at fault: That driver’s insurance is usually responsible for paying.
• If both drivers share fault: Multiple insurers may divide liability, which can prolong the claims process.

Passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists can all file claims for compensation after a Lyft accident. However, since rideshare crashes involve overlapping insurance policies, determining who pays requires a detailed investigation.

A rideshare accident lawyer can look into your accident and gather evidence so you can focus on your recovery.

Can You Sue Lyft for an Accident?

Suing Lyft directly can be challenging. The company classifies its drivers as independent contractors, which allows it to argue that it’s not liable for their negligence. However, there are circumstances where you may have grounds to file a lawsuit, such as:

• Negligent hiring or background checks: If Lyft failed to screen a driver properly, and that driver caused a crash, they may be liable.
• App malfunctions: If defective software or routing errors contributed to the collision, Lyft can be held responsible.
• Bad faith insurance practices: If Lyft or its insurer intentionally delays or denies valid claims, you may be able to sue.

A rideshare accident attorney can help identify all available sources of compensation and determine whether a lawsuit is possible.

How Long Does It Take Lyft to Investigate an Accident?

Lyft’s investigation timeline varies from case to case. In straightforward cases with clear fault and minor injuries, the company may conclude its inquiry within a few weeks.

But when there are serious injuries, conflicting witness statements, or questions about insurance coverage, the process can drag on for months. During the investigation, Lyft’s insurance adjusters will review:

• Collision reports and witness statements
• Photos and videos from the scene
• Medical records and treatment costs
• Damage estimates for vehicles and property

During Lyft’s investigation, you don’t have to wait to seek medical care or hire an attorney. In fact, doing so early can strengthen your claim.

Why Hire a Rideshare Accident Attorney?

If you’ve been injured in an accident with a Lyft vehicle, a rideshare accident lawyer can:

• Determine who is liable: A lawyer can investigate whether the driver, Lyft, or another motorist is responsible for your damages.
• Handle the insurance company: An attorney can deal with insurance adjusters so you don’t accidentally say something that hurts your claim.
• Negotiate a fair settlement: Insurance companies strive to minimize injury settlements. A lawyer can ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
• Take the case to court: If negotiations fail, your attorney can file a lawsuit and fight for compensation in court.

Having legal representation levels the playing field against Lyft’s powerful insurers.

Steps to Take After a Lyft Accident

If you’ve been involved in a Lyft accident, taking the right steps can make or break your claim. After the crash, you should:

1. Call 911: Get medical help and have the police document the scene.
2. Gather evidence: Take photos and videos of the vehicles, injuries, and the surrounding area.
3. Exchange contact information: Get names, phone numbers, license plate details, and insurance information from everyone involved in the crash.
4. Report the crash to Lyft: Notify Lyft about the accident, but don’t admit fault or speculate about what happened.
5. Contact your insurance company: Let your insurer know about the accident, even if you weren’t at fault.
6. Seek medical attention: Visit a doctor to get evaluated and document your injuries, even if they don’t seem serious.
7. Contact an attorney: Before talking to Lyft’s insurance adjusters, contact a lawyer to discuss your case.

Get Help from a Rideshare Lawyer Today

A Lyft accident can leave you dealing with steep medical bills, lost income, and runarounds from the insurance company. If you’ve been hurt in a Lyft crash, a rideshare accident attorney from Hopkins Law Firm can cut through the red tape, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

We’ve been helping people recover after negligence-related incidents for over 10 years, and our team brings more than two decades of combined experience to your case. Book a free case evaluation today to take the first step toward financial recovery.