Were You Injured in a Lyft Accident?
Ridesharing apps are more popular than ever before as an alternative to taking the bus, subway, or taxi cabs in New York City. While ridesharing services, such as Lyft, are certainly convenient, they can sometimes be a dangerous option to get around the city. Lyft accidents can affect customers who ordered the ride, other drivers on the road, and even pedestrians who are in the vicinity.
In this article, we’re looking at how Lyft accidents happen and how a Lyft accident attorney can assist you if you are involved in a crash.
Understanding Lyft Accidents
Lyft drivers are responsible for safely transporting passengers, but they face many of the same risks as other motorists. Unfortunately, this means accidents can happen.
Common causes of Lyft accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Drunk driving
- Road rage
- Lack of knowledge about traffic laws
Lyft drivers may also feel pressured to meet time expectations or entertain passengers for tips, leading to risky driving behaviors. Long working hours can cause fatigue and distraction, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Whether it’s a rear-end collision, T-bone accident, single-car crash, or multi-car pile-up, the consequences can be severe. Lyft accident victims may suffer injuries such as:
- Whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
Proving Liability Against a Lyft Driver
To operate as a Lyft driver, individuals must have auto insurance. However, determining liability can be complex. While Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, a skilled Lyft accident attorney can help you understand whether Lyft’s insurance policies may also apply to your case.
Lyft insurance coverage may include:
- Bodily injury coverage per person
- Bodily injury coverage for the entire accident
- Property damage coverage
Depending on your accident, you may be eligible to recover damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Disability accommodations
- Property repairs
- Loss of quality of life
How a Lyft Accident Lawyer Can Help
An experienced Lyft accident lawyer can advocate for rideshare passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians injured in accidents involving Lyft drivers.
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, but a lawyer ensures you get the maximum compensation to cover the impact of your accident.
Key services a Lyft accident lawyer provides include:
- Investigating the accident
- Gathering evidence and contacting witnesses
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Pursuing settlements or taking your case to trial
Important: Lyft accident claims in New York City are subject to a three-year statute of limitations. This means you must file your claim within three years of the accident to seek recovery.
Contact the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum
At the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we handle every aspect of your Lyft accident case, from initial investigation to trial if needed. Our goal is to secure the compensation you deserve.
To learn more about how we help Lyft accident victims in New York City or to discuss your case, call us at 718-237-5586 or complete our online contact form.