Why Hire Our Lyft Accident Lawyer in Lafayette?
Rideshare vehicles have made the roads safer in some ways, including making it easier to avoid driving drunk. Unfortunately, car accidents can still happen even when someone who drives passengers around for a living is behind the wheel.
When an incident occurs involving a Lyft driver, those who have been harmed can pursue a claim for compensation. However, it can become complicated to determine who is liable for losses in these situations. Fortunately, you don’t have to handle these cases on your own. A Lafayette Lyft accident attorney can offer the support you need and deserve. Note that if you’ve been injured in an Uber, learn more about our Uber accident lawyers here.
Anderson Blanda & Saltzman personal injury firm can help. Our auto accident attorneys in Lafayette have represented over 10,000 clients, and collectively have more than 100 years of experience fighting for victims. We can put our legal knowledge to work for you. Give us a call at (337) 233-3366 to schedule a free consultation to learn more.
Who Covers Losses After a Lyft Accident?
Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2320, “masters and employers are answerable for the damage occasioned by their servants and overseers, in the exercise of the functions in which they are employed.”
This law means that when someone causes harm while performing job duties, their employer can typically be held accountable for resulting damages. This is called vicarious liability.
However, Lyft drivers are not considered employees. The law classifies them as independent contractors, so they aren’t agents of Lyft. This does not mean victims can never turn to Lyft to get paid for losses, though.
Lyft provides insurance coverage that varies depending on the situation. For example:
- A Lyft driver who is not actively on the app would need to rely on their own auto insurance to cover losses.
- When a Lyft driver is waiting with the app on for a passenger request, Lyft’s third-party liability insurance provides $25,000 per accident in property damage coverage as well as $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage.
- When a driver is transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up, Lyft’s third-party coverage provides at least $1 million in protection,
This means victims may be able to hold the driver liable or, in some cases, the rideshare company.
Compensation after a Lyft Accident in Lafayette
Whether you or a loved one was hurt or killed in a Lyft accident, you should be “made whole,” under Louisiana’s tort laws. As of July 2024, the statute of limitations time period was extended, according to Louisiana ACT No. 423 you have two years to pursue a claim for personal injury compensation. So it is important to act swiftly to get the money you’re entitled to before time runs out.
Many cases are settled outside of court, so you’ll likely be negotiating with the other driver’s insurer or with Lyft’s insurer. If you can reach a successful settlement, you avoid the stress and uncertainty of courtroom proceedings. However, you don’t want to agree to a settlement and leave money on the table.
Contact Our Lafayette Lyft Accident Attorney Today
The Lafayette personal injury lawyers at Anderson Blanda & Saltzman will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve, including for:
- All medical costs connected to your injuries, including future causes
- Lost wages if you miss work due to your Lyft accident, and lost earning power if crash-related injuries impact your ongoing ability to work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages
With multiple insurers potentially liable for your losses, you should be able to get the full compensation you need to rebuild in an accident’s aftermath. Give us a call today at (337) 233-3366 to schedule your free consultation and learn how a Lafayette Lyft accident attorney can represent you.