Lyft Accident Attorney in Morristown, New Jersey

Ridesharing services like Lyft have become a popular, convenient way to get from one place to another. But, as with any mode of transportation, accidents can happen. If you’ve been involved in a Lyft accident in New Jersey, Massachusetts, or New York, it’s important to know what your rights are and how to move forward. 

The Law Offices of Gold, Albanese, & Barletti LLC is here to help.

As a reputable New Jersey personal injury law firm, we’re here to guide you through the process of seeking compensation for any injuries or damages you may have suffered.

Whether you’re a passenger, a driver, or a pedestrian involved in a ridesharing accident with a Lyft vehicle, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take after an accident and explain how we can help you get compensation. Contact our Morristown Lyft accident attorney today to set up your free consultation.

What Is a Lyft Accident Compared to a Normal Car Accident?

A Lyft accident occurs when a Lyft vehicle, either driven by a Lyft driver or involved in a collision with another vehicle, causes damage or injury.

These accidents can be minor fender-benders or more serious collisions that result in severe injuries. In some cases, Lyft passengers may be injured, while in other situations, people in other vehicles or pedestrians may be involved.

Types of Lyft Accidents

Lyft accidents can happen under a wide variety of circumstances. Some of the most common types of Lyft accidents include:

Passenger Injuries

As a passenger in a Lyft vehicle, you expect a safe, comfortable ride. But, if the driver is distracted, reckless, or involved in a crash, you could be hurt. Injuries can range from mild to severe, and you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Driver Injuries

Lyft drivers aren’t immune to accidents either. If you’re a Lyft driver and you’ve been injured in a crash, you might be entitled to compensation. Your situation may be more complicated if you weren’t actively driving for Lyft at the time of the accident, but there may still be options available for you to pursue a claim.

Accidents Involving Other Vehicles

Sometimes, accidents involving Lyft vehicles are caused by other drivers. Whether the other driver was distracted, speeding, or driving recklessly, you may be able to hold them accountable for the damages caused in the accident.

Pedestrian Accidents

In some cases, a Lyft vehicle may hit a pedestrian. If you’ve been struck by a Lyft vehicle while walking or crossing the street, you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries you sustained.

What to Do After a Lyft Accident

After an accident, it’s critical to take the proper steps to protect your rights and build a solid case for compensation. Here’s what we recommend you do after a Lyft accident:

Get Medical Attention

Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, might not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical attention right after the accident helps protect your health and provides important documentation for your case.

Report the Accident to Lyft

If you were a passenger or a driver involved in a Lyft accident, make sure to report the accident to Lyft as soon as possible. They’ll need to know about the incident, and they’ll start an internal investigation. This is important because Lyft’s insurance coverage may be involved in your claim.

Gather Evidence

It’s essential to gather as much evidence as you can after the accident. This can include photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Take note of the contact information for anyone involved in the accident, including other drivers and witnesses. This evidence can be critical when filing a claim.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

After a Lyft accident, it’s always a good idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer. We can review the specifics of your case, help you understand your legal rights, and determine the best path forward. We’re here to help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Lyft’s Insurance Coverage

One of the most confusing aspects of a Lyft accident is understanding Lyft’s insurance coverage. Depending on the circumstances, Lyft’s insurance policy may provide compensation for your injuries. However, the amount and extent of the coverage will depend on several factors.

When the Driver Isn’t on a Ride

If the Lyft driver isn’t currently on a ride (i.e., they are waiting for a ride request), Lyft’s insurance coverage will likely be minimal. In this case, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy may come into play.

When the Driver Is on a Ride

If the Lyft driver is actively transporting a passenger, Lyft’s insurance coverage should kick in. Lyft’s policy will typically cover up to $1 million in liability coverage for accidents that occur during a ride. This coverage includes both bodily injury and property damage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists

If the at-fault driver in the accident is uninsured or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your injuries, Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply. This is an essential part of Lyft’s insurance policy, as it protects you if the other driver isn’t adequately insured.

Liability in Lyft Accidents

Who is liable for damages in a Lyft accident? The answer depends on the specifics of the accident. There are several parties who could potentially be held liable for your injuries:

The Lyft Driver

If the Lyft driver was at fault for the accident—due to negligence, distracted driving, or another reason—they may be held responsible for your injuries. In some cases, Lyft’s insurance may cover the damages, but it’s important to assess all the facts before moving forward.

Another Driver

In some cases, the other driver may be at fault for the accident. If this is the case, you can pursue a claim against their insurance. If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, Lyft’s uninsured motorist coverage may be available to you.

Lyft

If Lyft was somehow responsible for the accident, such as if they failed to properly vet the driver or their vehicle, Lyft may be held liable. However, Lyft typically argues that they aren’t responsible for the actions of their independent contractors (the drivers). This is why working with a personal injury lawyer is essential to building a strong case.

Common Injuries in Lyft Accidents

The types of injuries sustained in Lyft accidents can vary depending on the severity of the crash. Some of the most common injuries we see include:

• Whiplash: This injury, caused by sudden movement of the neck and head, is common in rear-end collisions.

• Broken bones: In more severe crashes, broken bones can occur.

• Head injuries: Concussions or more serious brain injuries can occur, especially if you’re not wearing a seatbelt or if you hit your head during the accident.

• Back and spinal injuries: Accidents can cause serious back and spinal injuries that may lead to chronic pain or even paralysis.

• Emotional distress: In addition to physical injuries, emotional distress and anxiety are common following an accident.