Injured in a Lyft Accident?
Contact a Lawyer at Drafahl Law Firm Today
Being involved in a Lyft accident in Granite City usually brings up a lot of questions. Unlike regular car crashes, rideshare accidents add another layer of complexity. That’s because there are often multiple insurance policies in play if the Lyft driver was working at the time of the accident and/or if another driver was involved in the crash. Determining who is responsible and how to get compensated can be difficult.
Fortunately, a legal professional can help. Our Granite City car accident lawyers have experience handling rideshare cases and are here to assist.
Call us today at (314) 300-6260 to schedule your free case evaluation.
Why Choose Drafahl Law Firm to Help You After a Lyft Accident in Granite City?
Navigating the aftermath of a Lyft accident isn’t something anyone should have to face alone. From figuring out who is responsible to dealing with pushback from big insurance companies, the process can quickly become overwhelming. At Drafahl Law Firm, we understand what you’re going through.
When you work with us, you have someone in your corner treating your case like it truly matters, not just as another file in a stack. Here’s what sets Drafahl Law Firm apart:
- More than 100 5-star Google reviews from past clients and family members
- Millions of dollars recovered through verdicts and settlements
- Top-rated by Best Lawyers and recognized by Super Lawyers
By intentionally limiting our caseload, we always have time to get to know you personally and answer any questions or concerns you have. Choosing the right law firm can make a big difference in your case, and we’re here to help.
Why Lyft Accident Claims Are Different
If you are involved in a crash that includes a Lyft vehicle, you’ll learn – sooner or later – that these cases aren’t quite as straightforward as some other car accident cases. The involvement of a rideshare company brings in extra complexity that doesn’t exist in standard car insurance claims. Here’s what can make these cases particularly challenging:
The Lyft Driver’s Status as an Independent Contractor
Unlike traditional taxi drivers who may be considered company employees, Lyft classifies its drivers as independent contractors. This means that negligent actions by the driver may not be directly linked to Lyft as their employer, which adds a layer of complication when seeking compensation. Essentially, establishing responsibility isn’t always as straightforward as it is with a taxi company or delivery service accident that uses employees as their drivers.
Multiple Insurance Policies Can Be Involved
One major difference in Lyft cases is the variety of insurance policies that could apply. There’s the Lyft driver’s personal auto insurance, Lyft’s own liability coverage, and sometimes your own auto insurer. The availability and coverage amounts will depend on several specific factors at the time of the crash. You may end up dealing with multiple different insurers on the same claim, which can be a little bit overwhelming.
How Liability Can Shift Based on Ride Status
Another critical difference in Lyft accident claims revolves around the ride status at the moment of the crash:
- If the Lyft app was off, the driver’s personal auto insurance typically applies, as they are treated like any other motorist. Their own personal insurance policy is generally the only one that applies.
- If the app was on but no ride was accepted, Lyft offers limited third-party coverage, which is often secondary to whatever personal coverage applies.
- Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is inside the vehicle, Lyft’s more extensive commercial coverage steps in.
Because liability changes as the status changes, even a few seconds difference around the time of the accident can make a big difference in who is ultimately responsible for paying your damages.
Common Causes of Lyft Accidents
Lyft accidents in Granite City often occur on busy roads like Route 3, Nameoki Road, and near I-270, where rideshare drivers deal with heavy commuter traffic. These accidents can happen for many of the same reasons as other auto collisions, but rideshare drivers and the unique demands of the job introduce some Lyft-specific risks. Some of the frequent causes of Lyft accidents include:
- Distracted driving, such as checking the app for rides or directions while on the road
- Unfamiliarity with local roads or neighborhoods, especially with out-of-town or part-time drivers
- Fatigue from long shifts or driving late at night to maximize earnings
- Rushing or speeding to pick up the next passenger
- Improper sudden stops to pick up or drop off passengers in unsafe locations
When Lyft drivers split their attention between passengers, navigation apps, and surrounding traffic while also working long or unusual hours, the risk of accidents increases significantly.
Time Limits for Filing a Lyft Accident Lawsuit in Illinois
When you’re involved in a Lyft accident in Illinois, you need to know that your time to file a lawsuit is limited by state law. In most personal injury cases, including those involving Lyft drivers or rideshare accidents, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to bring a legal claim against the responsible party.
(735 ILCS 5/13-202) (from Ch. 110, par. 13-202)
Sec. 13-202. Personal injury – Penalty. Actions for damages for an injury to the person, or for false imprisonment, or malicious prosecution, or for a statutory penalty, or for abduction, or for seduction, or for criminal conversation that may proceed pursuant to subsection (a) of Section 7.1 of the Criminal Conversation Abolition Act, except damages resulting from first degree murder or the commission of a Class X felony and the perpetrator thereof is convicted of such crime, shall be commenced within 2 years next after the cause of action accrued
If you don’t take legal action within this two-year period, you may lose your right to seek compensation through a lawsuit. There are rare exceptions, but most people who wait too long end up unable to recover any damages at all. That’s why it’s so important to act quickly.
Speak With a Granite City Lyft Accident Attorney From Drafahl Law Firm Today
Recovering from a Lyft accident in Granite City can feel overwhelming, especially with complicated insurance questions and the physical recovery you may be going through. At Drafahl Law Firm, our Granite City personal injury attorneys understand how important it is to get clear answers and strong support during this difficult time.
If you have been hurt in a rideshare crash and are unsure about your next steps, we are here to listen and help you navigate the entire process. Reach out to our team at (314) 300-6260 to learn about your rights and options.
Schedule a free consultation today.