Sarasota and Tampa Lyft Accident Attorney
Lyft is a rideshare company founded in 2012. As one of the most popular rideshare companies in the United States, Lyft operates in more than 200 U.S. cities. Millions of people use Lyft services on a regular basis, trusting drivers to get them safely where they need to go. Unfortunately, this does not always happen.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident involving a Lyft driver, then contact our Sarasota and Tampa Lyft accident lawyers at Matthews Injury Law today. Our legal team can help you determine which parties may be liable for your injuries. We can also help you determine which Lyft insurance policies may apply in your specific case.
Lyft Driver Requirements
All Lyft drivers must meet specific legal requirements. Lyft drivers must be at least twenty-one years of age and pass DMV, national, and county background checks. If Lyft drivers have been convicted of certain crimes, they should not be permitted to drive for Lyft. Every driver must possess their own vehicle, and the vehicle must satisfactorily complete a 19-point inspection. All Lyft drivers must also have an Android phone or iPhone.
Lyft Insurance Policies
The law requires Lyft to provide liability insurance for Lyft drivers in certain situations. Drivers, however, must also possess proper coverage through their own personal automobile insurance. Passengers must be waiting for a ride or in the car for the corporate insurance to apply, and deciphering the right insurance claims to file can be complicated.
Lyft insurance policies that might come into play include the following:
- Uninsured/underinsured (UI/UIM) motorist coverage, for up to $1 million per accident
- Comprehensive/collision coverage that covers the vehicle if it is on the Lyft driver’s personal policy
- Primary liability coverage when a passenger is in the automobile
- Contingent liability for when a driver is awaiting a ride
Lyft insurance coverage is divided into the following periods:
- Period 1: Low liability coverage of $50,000 per person injured, $25,000 for property damage, and $100,000 per incident. No collision or comprehensive coverage or UM/UIM coverage
- Period 2/3: Lyft has a $1 million liability policy, while UM/UIM is contingent on having personal collision and comprehensive coverage; Lyft’s policy applies if your insurer denies your claim but has a $2,500 deductible.
As you can see, there are many complex insurance rules surrounding these crashes.
What Should I Do If I Was Hit By A Lyft Driver?
You should call 911 for immediate medical attention and get your injuries diagnosed as soon as possible. Discuss what happened with any police on the scene if you are able, so you can have your version of events in the report. Contact Lyft and report the accident as soon as you can.
Speak with a Tampa and Sarasota Lyft Accident Lawyer
There are many ways that Lyft accidents can happen, and liable parties might include the Lyft driver, the Lyft corporation, other drivers on the road, and more. Let an experienced Lyft accident attorney review your rights. Contact Matthews Injury Law today.