Being injured as a Lyft passenger can be frightening and confusing, with concerns about who is responsible for your injuries, how your medical bills are covered, and what steps to take for maximum recovery. Our rideshare accident attorney in Washington DC can help guide you through the legal process after an accident. Here’s what to do if you’re injured as a Lyft passenger:
Report the Accident to Police and Lyft
- Call 911 right after the crash. Ensure official police or emergency responders document the accident, even if injuries seem minor.
- Open the Lyft app and use the in-app panic or accident reporting feature. Log all emails or confirmation numbers you receive from Lyft.
Gather Critical Evidence
- Photograph every vehicle at the scene, including your Lyft, the other cars involved, license plates, insurance information, and damage of the vehicles.
- If possible, get witness contact information from anyone who was nearby when the accident occurred.
- Also take screenshots of your Lyft ride and any other important information from the app, like the driver profile.
Document Your Injuries
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible so you can make sure all injuries are documented, including the obvious ones as well as those that can’t be seen without tests or imaging.
- Follow all doctor treatment plans. Keep copies of medical visit summaries, bills, recommended treatment plans, and prescription payments.
- Keep an “injury diary,” noting all symptoms that develop over time.
Contact a Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorney
- After your immediate or emergency needs are stabilized, consult a personal injury lawyer with rideshare accident experience. They will explain what you need to do next and what you could be entitled to.
- Your DC car accident lawyer will also negotiate with insurance companies to try to get you full compensation for your injuries and losses.
Don’t Discuss Your Case
- Never provide a recorded statement without first speaking with your personal injury lawyer.
- You should also never post about your case on social media. Only speak with your lawyer about the accident.
When injured as a Lyft passenger, the most important move is to create a thorough chain of documentation right from the moment of the incident through all phases of insurance negotiation and treatment. For help, call our team today to schedule a free consultation.
Understand Lyft’s Insurance Coverage
When you are in a Lyft vehicle and the ride is active, meaning from when your trip is accepted until you are dropped off, Lyft’s commercial auto insurance is put into effect. This coverage far exceeds most typical individual car insurance.
Here’s what you have access to:
- Up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply
- Contingent collision coverage (vehicle damage)
If Another Driver Caused The Crash
- That driver’s insurance pays first
- Lyft’s UM/UIM coverage may apply if limits are insufficient or the other party doesn’t have insurance
Resolving injury claims after a Lyft accident can be complex, but understanding your rights and Lyft’s insurance coverage certainly helps. If you’re feeling lost after a Lyft crash in DC or the surrounding area, don’t risk missing deadlines or making costly mistakes by handling it alone. Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.