When you’re hurt in a car accident, you could have a long recovery period ahead of you, as well as major medical expenses. If another driver caused the accident, you have the right to hold them accountable. Usually, that means filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider.
However, when that driver works with Lyft as an independent rideshare operator, the situation becomes much more complicated. Our Lake Charles Lyft accident lawyers can help you understand who is liable and work to get you the compensation you need.
Our team at Galloway Jefcoat Injury Attorneys has fought for the rights of injured accident victims in Louisiana since 1996. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out how our Lake Charles rideshare accident lawyers can help.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Lyft Accident?
It is always a good idea to consult with a lawyer when you’ve been injured in an accident. The hours and days after a car crash are a stressful and confusing time. An attorney can help you review your options and avoid mistakes that could harm your claim.
While every case is unique, some of the tasks our Lake Charles Lyft accident attorneys typically perform include:
- Investigating your accident and identifying liable parties
- Assessing your economic and non-economic damages
- Handling your claim and interacting with insurance providers
- Negotiating for a fair settlement that fully covers your damages
- Filing a civil suit and representing you in court, if necessary
Working with our Lake Charles car accident lawyers means you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing your case is in good hands, which frees you up to focus on getting better.
"I have used Galloway Jefcoat a few times and have always been very satisfied. Furthermore, all of the people who work there are very professional, nice, and courteous."
Is Lyft Liable in a Car Accident?
Lyft drivers are not employees; they are contractors who supply their own vehicles, and Lyft has limited control over their actions. Lyft is only liable for accidents caused by its drivers in certain circumstances. Usually, it depends on whether or not the driver was signed into their Lyft app.
That effectively means they are on the clock, and Lyft may be liable in an accident if the driver was:
- Signed into their app and waiting for a passenger
- On their way to pick up a passenger
- Actively transporting a passenger
Lyft could also be liable if, for example, they failed to train new drivers properly, ignored customer complaints, or did not perform appropriate background checks. Your Lake Charles personal injury lawyer will investigate your specific situation and determine liability.
"Galloway Jefcoat are amazing professionals who are very client focused. They will guide you thru all the details to help get your litigation solved. I was involved in a crash that ultimate required a knee replacement"
Can You Sue Lyft if You Are in an Accident?
You can sue Lyft if you’ve been in an accident with one of their drivers. However, even if you can prove they are liable, a lawsuit usually isn’t the best first course of action. Instead, your attorney may file a claim with Lyft’s insurance provider.
Lyft carries extensive liability insurance for its drivers when they are signed into the app and engaged in company business. In some situations, their policy covers up to a million dollars. For many accidents, this amount is more than enough to cover damages.
Your Lyft accident lawyers in Lake Charles will calculate your damages and file a claim to seek maximum compensation. If, after good-faith negotiations, Lyft’s insurance company does not agree to a fair settlement, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit.
"As a client of Galloway Jefcoat for over two years I want to take a minute to say how much I appreciate the team handling my case."
What if the Driver Is Liable?
If Lyft is not liable, your accident becomes like any other car crash. That means you’ll file a claim with the other driver’s insurance provider to seek compensation for your damages. Fortunately, Lyft requires that its contractors carry state minimum liability insurance.
In Louisiana, that means:
- $15,000 bodily injury for each person.
- $30,000 total bodily injury per accident.
- $25,000 property damage per accident.
Lyft also encourages its drivers to purchase an additional rideshare insurance policy. It is essential to consult with an attorney to fully understand how insurance coverage will impact your specific situation and whether additional liable parties may be involved.
"Great experience, from day 1 I felt like I finally had someone on my side and that feeling didn't leave me for 1 single moment."
How Much Money Can You Get in a Lyft Accident?
Your settlement or award in a Lyft accident could be in the thousands or even millions of dollars. Every case is different, and the money you can receive depends on the damages you’ve suffered. Typically, severe and catastrophic injuries result in large settlements.
Even if you’ve only experienced minor injuries, it’s still smart to consult with an attorney and get help with your claim. Medical expenses and vehicle repairs can result in unexpected debt, especially if you need to take unpaid time away from work.
Economic Damages
You shouldn’t have to suffer financially as well as physically. Your attorney may be able to help you recover expenses for things like:
- Medical care, including hospital stays, emergency services, doctor visits, physical therapy, and medications
- Future medical costs resulting from the accident, like procedures, surgeries, and physical therapy
- Lost wages, income, and benefits due to your inability to attend work after the crash
- Out–of–pocket costs like housekeeping and childcare services
- Property damage to repair your vehicle
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are meant to compensate you for the psychological and emotional hardships you’ve suffered as a result of your accident. They aren’t always recoverable, but if possible, your attorney can seek compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
Contact a Lake Charles Lyft Accident Attorney
One car accident can have a tremendous impact on your life. You could be injured and unable to work for weeks or months, and you may struggle with important tasks like caring for your family, driving a car, and managing your household.
When a Lyft operator caused your accident, you may be able to recover damages from Lyft, or you might need to file a claim with the driver’s insurance. Our Lake Charles Lyft accident attorneys can help you sort it out and secure the compensation you need.
At Galloway Jeffcoat, our team takes pride in advocating for injured accident victims and turning wrong into right. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can assist with your Lyft accident case.
"Galloway Jefcoat helped me at a time when I felt lost and taken advantage of by my employer."
