Who Pays in a Lyft Accident?

Lyft Accident

Ridesharing has grown in popularity due to its convenience. Rideshare companies like Lyft offer an invaluable service. With these companies come questions about liability. No one wants to think that he or she is going to be involved in an accident when he or she climbs into a Lyft. Just as no one on the road hopes that he or she will be in an accident with a rideshare driver. Still, these accidents do happen and it’s important that you understand your rights. Here is what you need to consider after a car accident.

Establishing Fault

If you are the passenger in the Lyft vehicle, then you are not at fault for the accident. If you live in a state where fault can be determined, then you may have to find out which vehicle is at fault or if both drivers were at fault before you know who you can file a claim against. You would be making a third party claim against the drivers’ insurance policies. Keep in mind that Lyft drivers are independent contractors. This means that the company is not liable for their accidents. However, Lyft does have an insurance option if the driver does not have enough insurance. This may cover your bills.

Demanding Compensation

Even minor accidents can lead to serious consequences. Most people do not have the money to pay for surprise medical bills. When you’re a passenger in a car, you cannot rely on your own insurance. Hence, you have to look to the person who is at fault to pay for your bills. Remember that you deserve compensation if you are injured in a rideshare accident. You should file a report to Lyft and likewise, make sure that you are in contact with the police. Once you file a report, you can also file a third-party claim against the driver’s insurance policy.

When it comes to ridesharing accidents, you may have difficulty figuring out who is going to pay for the medical bills. It may be the driver’s insurance or it may be Lyft’s insurance policy for the driver. If you’re injured during an accident, you have every right to demand compensation for medical bills. Typically, it is going to be the driver or the driver’s insurance policy that has to compensate you for your losses. If you were in a Lyft accident, talk to a car accident attorney in Des Moines, IA as soon as possible to figure out how to continue forward with your case.  Thanks to Johnston Martineau, LLP for their insight into personal injury claims and Lyft accident injuries.