What to Do if You’re In a Car Accident with a Lyft Driver

Rideshare apps have transformed the way people travel in the past decade, but they haven’t been able to transform the roads themselves—according to one report, car accident fatalities increased in all but six states between 2020 and 2021. When you're involved in a car accident with a Lyft driver, the situation can become even more complicated due to the additional parties and potential insurance issues. 

In this article, we will explore the steps you should take if you find yourself in a car accident with a Lyft driver.

Prioritize Safety

The first and most crucial step after a car accident, whether you are driving passengers or by yourself, is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. 

Check for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone requires medical attention. If it's safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents and hazards. Turn on hazard lights, set up warning triangles or flares if available, and stay out of the path of oncoming traffic.

Exchange Information

Regardless of whether you're involved in an accident with a Lyft driver or any other party, it's essential to exchange information with all those involved. This includes:

• Full names and contact information
• Driver's license numbers
• Vehicle registration information
• Insurance details (including policy numbers and contact information)

When dealing with a Lyft driver this part does look a little different. You’ll also want to make sure to obtain the driver's Lyft identification number, which can help you identify them in case of discrepancies later on.

Document the Scene

Documenting the accident scene can be crucial when it comes to filing insurance claims and determining fault in both a car accident with a Lyft driver and those with other drivers.

If you’re safely able to, you’ll want to: 

• Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
• Gather contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident. Their statements could prove invaluable in determining liability.
• Make detailed notes about the accident, including the time, date, weather conditions, and the events leading up to the collision.

Report the Accident to the Authorities

Depending on the severity of the accident and local regulations, you may be required to report the accident to the police. North Carolina, for instance, only requires a police report for accidents that lead to a certain amount of property damage or bodily injury. 

Even if it's not mandatory, though, it's a good idea to involve law enforcement, as they can create an official accident report that may be important for insurance claims.

When reporting the accident, be honest and accurate about what happened. Do not admit fault or speculate about the cause of the accident. Stick to the facts.

Notify Lyft

If you are aware that you have been in a car accident with a Lyft driver, it's crucial to notify Lyft about the accident as soon as possible. You can do this through the Lyft app or by contacting Lyft's Critical Response Line, which is available 24/7. Lyft will guide you through the process and provide assistance as needed.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you initially feel fine after the accident, it's advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away, and a medical evaluation can ensure that any hidden injuries are identified and treated promptly.

Additionally, medical records can serve as essential evidence if you need to file a personal injury claim later on. Be sure to follow your healthcare provider's instructions for treatment and recovery.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Determine Liability

Promptly notify your insurance company about the accident, no matter who is at fault. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and may help you navigate any disputes with the other driver's insurance or Lyft's insurance.

Determining liability in a car accident with a Lyft driver can be more complex than a typical accident. Liability may depend on various factors, including the actions of the Lyft driver, the actions of other drivers involved, and local traffic laws. Insurance companies will conduct investigations to establish liability.

It's important to note that Lyft provides insurance coverage for its drivers, which typically includes:

• Liability coverage for the Lyft driver when they are actively driving passengers or on their way to pick up passengers.
• Contingent liability coverage when the driver is logged into the Lyft app but does not yet have a passenger.

The coverage amounts can vary depending on the driver's status at the time of the accident. Lyft's insurance may cover your damages, but it's important to consult with your own insurance company and potentially seek legal advice to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Consult with an Attorney

If you or anyone involved in the accident sustained significant injuries or if there is a dispute about liability and compensation, it may be wise to consult with a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Keep Records and Communicate

Throughout the claims process, it's crucial to maintain meticulous records of all communication with insurance companies, medical providers, and any other involved parties. 

This includes keeping copies of emails, letters, and notes from phone conversations.

Also, stay in touch with Lyft, your insurance company, and any legal representatives. Clear and open communication can help resolve the situation more effectively.

Final Word: What to Do if You’re In a Car Accident with a Lyft Driver

Being in a car accident with a Lyft driver or any rideshare driver can be a stressful and confusing experience. Your safety and well-being should always be the top priority, and seeking medical attention is essential, even if injuries seem minor at first.

The car accident attorneys at Van Camp, Meacham & Newman have decades of experience in these cases. While Lyft may be a newer development in the world of car accident law, our lawyers are committed to staying up-to-date on the policies and procedures of rideshare apps, in order to better serve our community in Pinehurst and the surrounding area.

If you’ve been in a car accident with a Lyft driver and are looking for guidance, schedule a free 30-minute initial consultation with us by contacting our firm online, or calling us at  910-295-2525.

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Disclaimer: The information seen on this website, including the article above, is not legal advice or legal counsel. If you wish to speak to a car accident lawyer who serves Raleigh, Fayetteville, Pinehurst, Sanford, and beyond, contact our North Carolina personal injury attorneys directly using our online form or by calling 910-295-2525.