The increasing popularity of ride share services like Lyft has made it more convenient to get around town and allows drivers to make some additional income. Since they are often driving and taking passengers to new places, Lyft drivers face an equal or larger risk of accidents every time they head out to pick up a passenger. What happens when a Lyft driver in Redlands hits you – and who is responsible for your injuries?
Since Lyft is a third party, the details are a little different from a normal auto accident between two individuals. Learning more about how Lyft accidents differ from conventional ones can help you know what to do if you are in an accident with a driver working for Lyft.
How Car Insurance Works with Lyft
A driver for Lyft supplies their own personal vehicle for the service, so they don’t qualify for commercial insurance. Since they are performing a task for pay, they also are not covered by their own personal car insurance. Because of this, Lyft offers third party protection for both passengers and other parties injured by a driver while they are on the clock.
Lyft offers their own insurance for those injured by a driver during their on-service time. This means if you were in a collision with a Lyft driver, were in the car during a collision or were even hit while riding your bike or walking, the brand’s own insurance will be responsible for your injuries. Lyft’s coverage is in effect any time a driver is actively going to pick up a passenger, has a passenger in the vehicle and during drop off. The brand also has coverage for when a driver is on the clock but has not yet committed to a ride. This is secondary and is designed to cover any injuries or damages not covered by the driver’s personal insurance.
If you are in an auto accident with a Lyft driver, you should follow the same steps you would take after a collision with any other vehicle. Make sure you document the incident, take pictures and video and call the police. Above all, make sure any injuries, even minor ones get prompt medical attention as needed.
You’ll need to notify your own insurer, and the other party’s personal insurer as well. Depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident, their insurer will pay for some damages, all the damages or deny the claim entirely. Once they have made a determination Lyft’s insurance is designed to cover the rest.
Since an accident with a Lyft driver involves an extra layer of complexity, it is a good idea to reach out to a Redlands car accident lawyer. Our team can help guide you through the process and understands the nuances of working with a third party insurer, making it easier to wrap up your case. Contact Harsh Law right away if you have been injured by someone driving for a ride share service like Lyft; we’re ready to help you get on the road to recovery.