Were you injured in a collision with a Lyft driver? Rideshare-related car crashes can be very complicated due to the involvement of insurance policies, independent contractors, and the companies themselves. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed as the victim of a situation like this.
However, you don’t have to deal with the aftermath of the collision all by yourself; instead, let a New Haven Lyft accident lawyer represent you. As your New Haven rideshare accident lawyer, we can help you understand your rights and how to pursue compensation.
With Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers by your side, we’ll do everything we can to advocate for your rights and pursue compensation on your behalf. We have recovered more than $500 million in compensation.
Lyft’s Insurance Coverage in Connecticut
A very unique aspect of rideshare-related incidents is the role that insurance coverage plays. Like other rideshare companies, Lyft extends different levels of insurance coverage depending on the status of the driver at the time of the incident.
There are three main phases that a Lyft driver can be in when an accident occurs. Even though your New Haven car accident lawyer will likely explain this information to you, let’s take a look at what each stage entails and what they mean in terms of insurance coverage.
Offline and Not Logged Into the Lyft App
When the Lyft driver is offline, they are considered to be driving for personal purposes, and their personal car insurance is the primary source of coverage. In this case, Lyft’s insurance policy does not apply.
App On and Awaiting a Ride Request
When the Lyft driver has the app on but they have not yet accepted a ride request, Lyft provides limited coverage. This phase typically involves third-party liability coverage up to $50,000 per person and up to $100,000 per accident.
It also includes $25,000 in property damage coverage. However, the driver’s personal insurance may also go into effect if the Lyft coverage alone is insufficient.
Ride Accepted With Passenger in the Car
When the driver has accepted a ride request and a passenger is in the car, Lyft’s full insurance coverage applies. This includes $1 million in third-party liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage.
It also includes $1 million in uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage if the other party involved in the accident does not have sufficient insurance. Lyft’s coverage is intended to protect passengers, drivers, and other people who were involved in the accident.
In situations where Lyft’s insurance coverage does not adequately cover the damages, the victim may need to rely on the driver’s personal auto insurance or file a claim through their own insurance, especially if they were not a passenger in the Lyft vehicle.
Common Causes of Lyft Accidents in New Haven
When looking into the details of your case, your New Haven Lyft accident attorney will want to know what caused the collision in the first place. Like any other vehicle on the road, Lyft vehicles are involved in accidents for various reasons.
Here are examples of common causes that your personal injury lawyers in New Haven will consider when investigating the circumstances that caused the crash:
- Distracted driving
- Driver fatigue
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Impaired driving
- Poor road conditions
- Inexperienced or unqualified drivers
Rideshare Accident Liability in Connecticut
Determining who is responsible for a Lyft accident is often more complicated than identifying who’s at fault in other types of car crashes. In many cases, the at-fault driver is liable for the damages. However, in the case of Lyft accidents, the issue of liability can be more confusing.
This is because several factors must be taken into consideration:
- The employment status of the Lyft driver
- The actions of other parties
- The specific details of the incident itself
In the state of Connecticut, Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees. This distinction is important because it can affect who is liable for damages in the event of an accident.
For example, if the Lyft driver is found to be at fault for the accident while performing rideshare services, Lyft may be held liable for the injuries and damages caused. However, there are certain circumstances where the driver may not be considered on the clock:
- When they are driving for personal reasons
- When they are in between rides
If a Lyft driver causes an accident while transporting a passenger or en route to pick up a passenger, the driver’s personal insurance may be supplemented by Lyft’s insurance coverage, which can help cover medical expenses, property damage, and other costs.
Ultimately, Connecticut law holds drivers accountable for their actions when they are driving negligently or recklessly. Your New Haven Lyft accident lawyers can look into the details of your case and work to prove liability on your behalf.
Contact Our New Haven Lyft Accident Law Firm Today to Meet With a Lawyer Who Can Help You
If you were injured in an incident with a Lyft driver, you don’t have to find your way through the aftermath of the collision all alone. The confusion and stress that people often experience after a rideshare collision can be overwhelming, but you deserve support.
That’s what the New Haven Lyft accident attorneys at Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers can offer you. We are here to advocate for your rights, fight for justice on your behalf, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
You shouldn’t have to bear the financial and emotional burdens of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Don’t wait to reach out to us for help—we’re here for you. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can start working on your case.
