Crashes involving Lyft accidents can be much more complicated than other collisions. That’s because there are often questions about whether the rideshare company’s insurer should cover the cost of damages.
Abaev Law Firm has represented many clients injured in rideshare crashes, and we understand the unique New York rules that apply to Lyft crashes. Our Valley Stream personal injury attorneys care deeply about our clients injured by careless rideshare drivers, and we have recovered millions for those who have been hurt on the roads in and around the Nassau County area and beyond.
To find out more about how our Valley Stream Lyft accident lawyers can help you, give us a call or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.
How Do Lyft Accidents Happen?
Lyft accidents can happen for many different reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver fatigue when drivers work too many hours to try to hit income goals.
- Driver distraction when Lyft drivers spend time looking at the app, not the road or other vehicles
- Driver intoxication if drivers consume drugs or alcohol before working
- Reckless driving or speeding if Lyft drivers try to complete trips more quickly to increase earnings
In many situations, Lyft drivers could have avoided accidents if they had been more careful behind the wheel. When a driver causes a collision through negligence or because of a violation of safety rules, that motorist can be held accountable for the harm they cause you to experience.
Is Lyft Responsible When a Crash Occurs?
Traditionally, employers are responsible for the on-the-job actions of their staff members under vicarious liability rules. This means, for example, that a bus company would typically be held legally responsible if the driver were careless and caused a bus collision.
However, drivers for Lyft are not employees of the rideshare app. They are independent contractors. This means vicarious liability rules do not apply.
Lyft does, however, purchase third-party insurance that is in effect when the driver is active on the app, waiting to pick up a customer, or when the driver is en route to a passenger or transporting a passenger. The coverage amounts vary depending on the driver’s status:
- A Lyft driver who is not active on the app must rely on their own coverage
- Lyft provides up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in coverage when a driver is active but not en route to a passenger or transporting a passenger
- Lyft provides up to $1 million in coverage for drivers en route or transporting customers
It is important to understand when Lyft’s third-party coverage applies and what this means for your claim. The Valley Stream car accident lawyers at Abaev Law Firm have extensive experience with rideshare accidents and can help you to determine if Lyft is liable. We can also stand up to their insurer and fight for full and fair compensation for you when Lyft’s coverage is in play.
How Can a Valley Stream Lyft Accident Attorney Help You?
Abaev Law Firm is here and ready to help after your Lyft accident. With our commitment to compassionate representation and legal knowledge of rideshare accident claims, you can rest assured your case is in good hands. Just reach out to our Valley Stream Lyft accident lawyers to schedule your free consultation and find out more about what we can do for you.