Lyft drivers are independent contractors, and their cars are just as prone to accidents. Because of this, Lyft accident claims can be complex. If you or your loved one has been involved in such an accident, contacting a Henry Lyft accident lawyer from our firm is wise. We can help you recover the compensation you deserve for your economic and non-economic damages.
Liability for Accidents Involving Lyft Vehicles
Lyft ridesharing services first came into the limelight in 2012, quickly growing into the current giant company. They provide a viable alternative to traditional taxi services. However, the biggest challenge that Lyft experiences is sorting liability issues, especially ones for accidents caused by its drivers.
The ridesharing company has a pool of elite lawyers that protect it from litigation. They strive to give its drivers status as independent contractors, which would mean that the company would not be liable for all the accidents caused by its drivers. As it stands, Lyft usually claims that its drivers are responsible for their actions.
There are times Lyft is responsible for paying accident victims compensation. Possible liable parties in a Lyft accident claim include:
The Lyft Company
If a driver causes an accident that injures a passenger, Lyft will have to compensate the victim if the driver was logged into the system, therefore indicating that they were on duty.
To operate their service, Lyft and other ridesharing companies must meet certain requirements. Amongst these rules is the company must have an insurance policy that covers its vehicles and passengers with property and personal damages.
The Driver’s Insurance Company
In some cases, an accident can occur while the driver was not logged into the Lyft system, indicating that they were offline. Lyft will not compensate anyone for such an accident, so you might have to follow up with the driver’s insurance company. Depending on how well you argue your case and the amount of evidence produced, you can recover compensation for your Henry Lyft accident claim.
Suing the Driver
Most insurance companies in Henry do not insure profit-driving, which is basically what Lyft drivers do with their vehicles. If you cannot recover your compensation from the driver’s insurance company, you might have to pursue the matter with the liable driver, even if it means going to court.
However, it is wise to consider the stakes involved. Court trials can be costly, and making sure that the driver you are about to sue can compensate you for what you are asking can save you a lot of time and resources.
Third-Party
Sometimes you can be involved in multiple car crashes while using Lyft ridesharing services. In this case, you might have to pursue the matter with the third party that led to the accident. Mechanics, government agencies, and other companies can all be liable, too.
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How does Lyft Insure Their Drivers?
While it is true that different insurance companies offer different policies, rideshare drivers are required to have specific insurance coverage for them to work for Lyft. Lyft must have $1 million of liability company insurance, which can be used at specific times.
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What to Do After a Lyft Accident in Vermilion Parish County
After a Henry Lyft accident, the steps you take will determine how your claim moves forward. To improve your chances of receiving your full compensation, consider the following steps:
Inform the Police
Regardless of how minor your crash is, informing the police is one of the best ways to keep yourself safe from any backlash that may ensue. The law requires all vehicles involved in a crash to stop and assess possible damages. If the driver does not want to make the call or is unable to, go ahead and make the call yourself.
Check for Injuries
Check whether you and the others involved in the Lyft accident is okay. You might have to seek immediate medical attention if the injuries are bad. When you call the police, you can call an ambulance as well.
Gather Evidence
Take clear photos and videos of the scene of the accident. Talk to eyewitnesses and collect their contact information. You should also take important details of everybody else involved in the crash. Also, keeping records of medical bills and police reports will further help build a strong accident claim.
Avoid Talking to Adjusters
Especially if their client is at fault, insurance companies will send adjusters to talk to victims and offer them a settlement as early as possible. The problem is that this offer is usually much lower than you deserve. Resist the urge to talk to these adjusters when they come knocking. While you’re at it, do not agree to anything they offer unless you have our Henry Lyft accident lawyer with you.
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Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers Can Provide a Lawyer in Henry to Help You
Henry Lyft accident lawsuits are generally new, so many claims are still pending in court while others have ended in arbitration or were resolved. However, with a good Henry Lyft accident lawyer from our firm, you can build a strong case and recover your compensation.
You do not have to worry about the cost of hiring our team — Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers usually work on a contingency basis. Only when we win your case do we take a reasonable share of the settlement to cater to the resources and time that we have put into your Lyft accident case. Even though these types of cases are relatively new, our attorneys know how to go about them. Call us now for a free consultation.
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