Lyft Accident Lawyer Elizabeth, NJ

Lyft Accident Lawyer Elizabeth, NJ

If you have been injured in a rideshare accident involving Lyft, please call a Lyft accident lawyer Elizabeth, NJ residents trust today. Accidents can take many shapes and forms, depending on who is involved. If you were in a collision that, in any way, involved a Lyft driver, you will likely encounter unique complications that can overwhelm and confuse you. Hiring an Elizabeth, NJ Lyft accident lawyer is highly recommended. 

Examples of Lyft Accidents

You Were a Passenger of a Lyft Car

Naturally, you, as a Lyft passenger, have a right to expect the driver to follow all traffic laws and rules. If your driver failed to do so, and a collision resulted, you can recover compensation for your medical bills and lost wages. These losses may be available through your insurance policy, the driver’s, or Lyft’s. 

You Were a Passenger of a Lyft Car, But Hit By Another Car

If you were in a Lyft while it was struck by another car, legal action may also be possible. You can recover compensation from their insurance company, or when applicable, Lyft’s insurance company.  As a Lyft accident lawyer in Elizabeth, NJ might explain, the Lyft driver does not always have to be responsible for the accident in order to recover compensation. 

You Were a Driver Struck By a Lyft Driver

If you are the driver of another car who was hit by a Lyft driver, you will likely be able to recover compensation from the Lyft driver’s policy first, and then from Lyft’s own policy. This is often necessary when the Lyft driver’s policy does not cover enough of the losses. 

A Pedestrian Hit by Lyft Driver

This is one of the most catastrophic types of accidents. Depending on the circumstances, your Elizabeth, NJ Lyft accident lawyer might recommend that you file a claim against the Lyft driver or the company. Before anything can be done, the right of way laws will need to be established. A lawyer can help you to understand the applicable laws, and how to go about a personal injury claim. 

What Information You Should Collect After an Accident

If possible, before you leave the scene of the accident, we would recommend that you collect the following information:

  • The name of the driver, their address, and phone number
  • The driver’s insurance information
  • The Lyft insurance policy details
  • Any other contact information from another driver or third party
  • Any contact information for witnesses
  • You should also take photos of the scene and get medical attention
  • If you are a Lyft passenger, get a photo or screenshot of the Lyft ride

Understanding the Insurance Claims Process

You might rely on Lyft, or other rideshare companies, to help you get around New Jersey. As with any method of transport, you know there are risks, but you trust the driver and Lyft. Thanks to many case precedents and new laws, Lyft has been required to provide insurance to their drivers when they are on the clock. This has made the claims process easier, but it is not perfect. If you have been involved in a Lyft accident, you will likely need a Lyft accident lawyer in Elizabeth, NJ. 

The Insurance Process in a Lyft Accident Claim

All Lyft drivers must carry insurance. They will also be protected by Lyft’s insurance coverage. There are three ways that liability coverage is available.

The App is Off

If you were injured while the Lyft app was off, the driver’s own policy may cover your injuries or damages

The App is On, The Driver is Waiting for a Request

Third party liability insurance is available when personal insurance does not apply. If you were injured in a Lyft accident, the app was on, and the driver was waiting for a request, the following coverage may be available:

  • $50,000/person for bodily injury
  • $100,000/accident for bodily injury
  • $25,000/accident for property damage

The App is On, the Lyft Driver is Picking Up Passengers, or Taking Passengers to their Destination

Lyft provides insurance coverage for accidents that happened while the driver was driving to a point of pickup or taking passengers to their destination. 

  • $1,000,000 for 3rd-party auto liability 
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury 
  • Contingent comprehensive & collision up to the actual cash value of the car ($2,500 deductible) 

If you were the passenger of a Lyft car, and was involved in an accident because of another driver’s wrongdoing, you will likely need to pursue a claim through their insurance company – not Lyft’s. If they have no insurance or are underinsured, a Lyft accident lawyer in Elizabeth, NJ can talk with you about other options. 

Filing Your Claim

To file a claim, you will need to contact the insurance claims department at Lyft, and/or report the accident to them. You will be expected to complete various forms that ask for many details. The process is a challenge. It can benefit you to have a Lyft accident lawyer in Elizabeth, NJ on your side. 

Filing a Claim as the Lyft Driver

Lyft drivers can also file a claim. You will need to report the accident to Lyft. They will ask you to complete an incident report form right away. Please make sure a police report has been filed, and get a copy. You will likely need to let your own insurance company know what happened. Submitted information is reviewed, and someone from Lyft or your insurance company will be in touch. We would recommend talking with a lawyer to ensure you make no mistakes and protect your rights. 

Rideshare accidents are complex, and can be life changing. By calling a Lyft accident lawyer in Elizabeth, NJ, you can feel confident in knowing you have taken the first step towards compensation. The Law Office of Wade Suthard, P.C., is ready to help you. Call our firm today to schedule a case review and consultation with a leading Elizabeth, New Jersey Lyft accident lawyer. Call The Law Office of Wade Suthard, P.C.