Using a rideshare company can be convenient, but you are also putting yourself at risk for an accident that could be very difficult to get fully compensated for. Anytime you’ve been injured in an accident with a Lyft driver, you need a Fort Lauderdale Lyft car accident lawyer from Lavent Law, P.A. to represent you and ensure that you get treated fairly.
Rideshare Liability Complications
Lyft drivers are not actually direct employees but are instead considered contractors. This creates several unique challenges when determining liability for a car crash.
In a “normal” scenario where an employee causes an accident, the employer would most likely be at fault or share in the liability. However, when a contractor causes an accident, the exact circumstances of the accident must be analyzed to determine who you should sue—especially in the case of a rideshare driver.
For example, if you were injured as a Lyft passenger, Lyft has an insurance policy that would go into effect, allowing you to seek compensation.
Things become more complicated when you were hit by a Lyft driver as another motorist or as a pedestrian. For example, if the wreck took place after the Lyft driver dropped off a passenger, the company would most likely bear no responsibility, leaving the driver responsible.
Other scenarios become increasingly complex: Was the driver on his or her way to pick up a passenger? Was the driver actively using the Lyft app at the time? The state of the app and whether the driver has a fare or is picking one up generally determine whether Lyft will be at all liable.
Proving Negligence for a Lyft Auto Wreck
After determining who was liable, negligence must then be proven for you to receive compensation. This process will require a full investigation that collects and reviews all of the following evidence:
- Accident reports
- Eyewitness testimony
- Video footage and photographs
- Doctor’s testimony and accident-related medical records
- And more
Compensation for a Lyft Car Crash
Working with a Fort Lauderdale Lyft car accident lawyer can help you recover more compensation for your injuries. After being injured in a rideshare auto accident, you could receive compensation for any of the following that applies to your case:
- Lost wages due to taking time off from work
- Current and future medical bills
- Rehabilitation, therapy, and medical devices
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost enjoyment of life
Settling Your Personal Injury Claim
When the evidence is compelling, a rideshare company such as Lyft may choose to settle the case through negotiations rather than risk the negative publicity of a trial. If they make a fair settlement offer, you can choose to accept and settle the claim out of court.
If Lyft or their insurance fail to either take your personal injury claim seriously or admit responsibility, then a court-rendered verdict may become your best chance for receiving fair compensation. If this happens, we’ll represent you throughout the courtroom procedures and provide you with sound legal counsel.
Consult a Fort Lauderdale Rideshare Car Accident Lawyer
Car accidents involving rideshare companies like Lyft are complicated when it comes to determining liability. Don’t risk getting an unfair settlement amount by going without representation.
Lavent Law, P.A. can help you get the compensation you need and deserve. To schedule a free case evaluation with a Fort Lauderdale Lyft car accident lawyer, simply give us a call at (305) 257-9464 or complete the online contact form below.