Lyft Accident Claims: How Much Can You Sue Lyft for in Florida?

Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Lyft’s Insurance Coverage
3. Factors That Affect Your Lyft Accident Settlement
4. Can You Sue Lyft Directly?
5. Damages You Can Recover in a Lyft Accident Claim
6. Steps to Take After a Lyft Accident in Florida
7. How a Lyft Accident Lawyer Can Help
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
9. Final Thoughts: Should You Sue Lyft for a Florida Accident?
10. Contact Information

Understanding Lyft’s Insurance Coverage

Lyft, like other rideshare companies, provides liability coverage through its insurance policy. However, the amount of compensation you may recover depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

1. Lyft Driver Offline (Not Using the App)

• The driver’s personal insurance policy applies.
• If the driver has minimum coverage, you may have to file a claim against their auto insurance or sue the driver personally.

2. Lyft Driver Waiting for a Ride Request

• Lyft’s insurance provides third-party liability coverage:
  • $50,000 per person for bodily injury
  • $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
  • $25,000 for property damage
• You may also file an insurance claim against the driver’s insurance or Lyft’s policy.

3. Lyft Driver on the Way to Pick Up a Passenger or During a Ride

• Lyft’s insurance policy provides $1 million in liability insurance.
• Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage may apply if another driver caused the car accident but lacks sufficient insurance coverage.
• Medical expenses and lost wages can be covered depending on the severity of injuries.
• If you were in a Lyft car at the time, suing Lyft might be an option depending on liability.

Factors That Affect Your Lyft Accident Settlement

1. Severity of Injuries

• More severe injuries (e.g., brain injuries, spinal cord damage) typically result in higher payouts.
• Minor accident injuries may be limited to medical expenses and pain and suffering.

2. Property Damage

• If your vehicle was damaged in a Lyft accident, you may be entitled to a property damage claim.
• Insurance adjusters may dispute the value of your auto accident claim, requiring strong evidence and legal representation.

3. Liability Determination

• Rideshare accident attorneys help gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements to prove liability.
• If multiple parties are involved, the legal process can become complex.

4. Insurance Company Negotiations

• Insurance companies often attempt to minimize settlements.
• Having an accident attorney can increase your chances of fair compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long do I have to file a lawsuit against Lyft in Florida?

Under Florida’s statute of limitations, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

2. Can I sue Lyft if I was a passenger in a rideshare accident?

Yes, as a passenger, you are entitled to compensation if you suffered bodily injury, medical expenses, or lost wages due to the accident. A Lyft accident lawyer can help you file a claim.

3. What if the Lyft driver was not at fault?

If another motorist caused the accident, you may need to file a claim against their auto insurance. Lyft’s insurance coverage may still apply depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

4. What happens if Lyft’s insurance denies my claim?

Insurance companies sometimes attempt to minimize payouts. A rideshare accident attorney can negotiate on your behalf and, if necessary, file a lawsuit against Lyft.

5. Will my insurance cover my injuries if I was in a Lyft accident?

If you have personal insurance, your PIP (Personal Injury Protection) coverage may help with medical bills and lost wages. However, additional compensation may be available from Lyft’s insurance policy.

6. How much can I expect from a Lyft accident settlement?

The amount depends on medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and liability coverage. Severe injuries, such as brain injuries, often result in higher payouts.

7. Should I hire a lawyer for my Lyft accident claim?

Yes. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options, gather evidence, and negotiate for maximum compensation.

8. Can I sue Lyft for emotional distress?

Yes, you may be able to include emotional distress and pain and suffering in your Lyft accident settlement if the accident caused psychological trauma.

9. What if the Lyft vehicle was poorly maintained?

If the Lyft vehicle was in poor condition due to negligence on the part of the driver or company, it could strengthen your accident lawsuit.

10. How does Lyft conduct background checks on its drivers?

Lyft performs background checks on all rideshare drivers, but if they failed to properly vet a driver who later caused an accident, you may have grounds for a lawsuit against Lyft.

11. Can I get a free consultation to discuss my Lyft accident case?

Yes! Our law firm offers a free consultation to review your case and provide legal advice.

12. Do independent contractors for Lyft have the same insurance protections?

Since Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, they have different insurance coverage than traditional employees, affecting deductibles and claims.

13. What role does medical attention play in my case?

Seeking medical attention immediately after a car crash strengthens your personal injury claims by providing documented proof of medical treatment.

14. How does my client relationship with a lawyer affect my case?

A strong client relationship with an experienced car accident lawyer ensures proper representation and a successful claim outcome.

For a Free Case Evaluation, Call: 844-877-8679