The convenience of Lyft and other rideshare companies is undeniable, but if you’re injured in a Lyft accident, the path forward can be daunting. Having an experienced Buffalo Lyft accident attorney on your side is always to your advantage.
Lyft Drivers
A Lyft driver doesn’t need a commercial driver’s license or any special experience, but they must accept the immense responsibility of transporting people safely from place to place – the way commercial drivers do. In the process, they face all the following obstacles:
- Interacting with the app
- Driving in areas they may be unfamiliar with
- Making frequent stops
- Regularly entering and exiting traffic
- Locating passengers outside their vehicles
It is not difficult to imagine how Lyft drivers get involved in accidents with all of these requirements of the job.
Insurance Coverage
The difference between Lyft accident claims and other car accident claims is where the insurance coverage comes from. The basics include the following:
- If the negligent Lyft driver has a passenger or is on the way to pick one up, Lyft’s insurance coverage is responsible.
- If the negligent Lyft driver is on the app and waiting to receive a pickup request, Lyft’s coverage begins where the Lyft driver’s personal coverage ends.
- If the negligent Lyft driver is off the app, the matter will proceed like any other car accident claim would.
It’s important to note that New York uses a no-fault system for traffic accidents. This means that your own policy will generally cover your losses in a car accident, regardless of who is at fault, unless the injuries you suffer are serious – or unless you are a Lyft passenger.
Negligence on the Part of the Lyft Driver
Lyft drivers accept immense responsibility, and any form of negligence can prove exceptionally dangerous, including the following:
- Failing to follow the rules of the road
- Speeding
- Driving while distracted
- Drowsy driving
- Drunk driving
- Aggressive driving
Your Losses
The legal damages you face as a result of a Lyft accident can be overwhelming and include all the following categories of loss:
- Medical bills
- Lost earnings
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
A key component of your claim is accurately accounting for your full range of losses, and for that, having trusted legal guidance in your corner is the best plan.
FAQs
Who covers my claim if I was a Lyft passenger?
If you were injured as a Lyft passenger in a Lyft accident, you’ll file your claim with Lyft’s insurance provider.
How important is having an attorney?
Having an attorney’s legal skill on your side can mean the difference between receiving the compensation you need to fully recover and failing to do so.
Will my case end up in court?
While every case follows its own unique course, the vast majority are settled out of court, and yours is very likely to do the same.
Make the Call to an Experienced Buffalo Lyft Accident Attorney Today
The compassionate Buffalo Lyft accident attorneys at Steve Foley Law Firm understand how difficult your situation is and are prepared to unleash the full force of their experience and skill in the focused pursuit of a beneficial resolution that supports your best interests. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 716-249-2222 today.