What Happens if my Lyft Driver Gets in an Accident in Florida?

Rideshares have made getting around easier and more convenient, but what if during one of your rides your Lyft driver gets in an accident? Knowing what to do next can feel scary and overwhelming. A Lyft accident may involve multiple insurance policies, liability disputes, and specific rules about when Lyft’s coverage applies. If you’ve been injured in a Lyft accident, understanding your legal options is important. 

This guide explains who may be liable, how insurance coverage can affect your claim, and what you should do after an accident. Contacting a Lyft accident attorney in Boca Raton as soon as possible will ensure your rights are protected, evidence is preserved, and that you get the compensation you’re entitled to. Call Kushel Group Law 24/7 at 561-940-0100 or fill out our online form.

Can You Sue Lyft?

Lyft classifies its drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This distinction can make determining who is legally responsible for an accident more complicated. The main factor is what the driver was doing at the exact moment of the crash. Read below to determine next steps:

A Lyft Driver Accepted a Ride or a Passenger is in the Car State Farm

If a Lyft driver has accepted, Lyft’s insurance policy (up to $1 million) covers injuries and damages for accident victims. This policy covers passengers in the vehicle, drivers of other vehicles, and pedestrians. 

Liability for a Lyft accident can be shared among multiple parties if more than one person contributed to the crash. In Florida, comparative fault can reduce the amount of compensation you may recover based on your percentage of fault. If you're found more than 50% at fault, you usually aren't entitled to any compensation.

What Should You Do After a Rideshare Accident?

Prioritize Your Health & Safety

Call 911 right away. A police report is an important piece of evidence for your insurance claim and a potential legal case. Stick to the facts. Don’t speculate because anything you say could possibly be used against you.

Get Medical Attention As Soon As Possible

Getting medical attention as soon as possible after a Lyft crash is important because adrenaline can temporarily mask pain, and some injuries may not present symptoms right away. Medical records also create documentation that your injuries are connected to the accident.

Report the Car Accident to Lyft

If your Lyft driver has been in a car accident, you need to report the accident to Lyft. You can do this through the safety section of the app. 

Be Careful With Insurance Adjusters

Lyft will assign an adjuster to your claim, so it’s important to let your attorney handle any communication. They may call you right after the accident with a low offer, hoping you accept before you know the full extent of your injuries. Their goal is to try and minimize the amount of money they pay out.

What Are the Most Common Injuries From Car Accidents?

Rideshare crashes can cause injuries ranging from temporary pain and discomfort to serious, life-altering conditions. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Whiplash
• Soft tissue injuries
• Spinal cord injuries 
• Broken bones
• Sprains and strains
• Cuts, lacerations, and abrasions
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Nerve damage
• Burns, from vehicle fires
• Psychological injuries (e.g., anxiety, PTSD, emotional distress)

Why You Should Hire a Rideshare Accident Attorney After a Lyft Crash in Boca Raton?

If your Lyft driver has been in an accident, dealing with rideshare accident claims can be complex. This is why hiring an experienced Lyft accident attorney at Kushel Law Group is important. We’ll start investigating the accident immediately, make sure your rights are protected, negotiate on your behalf, and fight to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys have secured millions in compensation for clients, so let us fight for you! Call us 24/7 at 561-940-0100 or fill out our online form to set up free case consultation. We don’t get paid unless you win! Our office is located in Boca Raton, and we also serve clients in Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and surrounding areas. 

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FAQs

Can Lyft be sued directly?

Because Lyft drivers are independent contractors, suing Lyft for a driver’s negligence can be very complex. If you’ve been in a Lyft car accident, contact Kushel Law Group as soon as possible for a free consultation.

What kind of compensation can I recover?

You may be entitled to medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other damages depending on the specifics of your case.

Who pays for my injuries if my Lyft crashes?

It depends on the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident. Whether they were off the app, waiting for a ride request, or had a passenger in their car will help determine liability. 

What if another driver caused my rideshare to crash?

If another driver caused your rideshare crash, their insurance usually pays first. If they don’t have enough coverage or are uninsured, you may be able to pursue compensation through the rideshare company’s Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

How long do I have to file a claim after a Lyft accident?

Under Florida's House Bill 837, the statute of limitations for a personal injury lawsuit was reduced from four years to two years. For Lyft accidents occurring on or after March 24, 2023, an injured person usually has two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. There could be exceptions, which is why you need to contact an attorney right after a rideshare accident.