Ridesharing services like Lyft have become a popular way to travel. But what happens if you’re in a Lyft, and your driver gets into an accident? Knowing the steps to take can help protect your rights and ensure your health and safety are addressed. In this guide, we’ll explain what you should do and highlight key legal remedies available, especially if you are hurt by a Lyft crash in Louisiana.
Immediate Steps After the Lyft Crash
First and foremost, your safety is the priority. Follow these steps immediately after the accident:
- Check for Injuries: Assess your condition and others in the vehicle. Call 911 if anyone is seriously injured.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask injury symptoms. It’s crucial to get a medical evaluation as some injuries may not appear until hours or days later.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident, including vehicle damage and road conditions. Get the Lyft driver’s information, including their insurance policy, as well as contact information for any witnesses.
- Report the Accident: Notify Lyft through the app, and ensure you file a police report. This report will be important for any claims you might pursue.
How Much Insurance does Lyft Provide?
For accidents involving rideshare services like Lyft, the company has insurance policies that may cover your injuries. Lyft provides up to $1 million in liability coverage for passengers. However, you will need to file claims either with the Lyft driver’s insurance or Lyft itself, depending on the circumstances.
Legal Remedies in Louisiana
If you’re involved in a Lyft accident in Louisiana, there are several avenues for seeking compensation. Louisiana follows a comparative fault rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, although your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Health Impacts from an Auto Accident
Car accidents can lead to several health issues, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, or concussions. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), passenger injuries from auto accidents are a common issue. Sometimes, injuries like traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or soft tissue damage may not be immediately obvious. Moreover, the long-term effects of a car accident could also include chronic pain, psychological trauma, and a diminished quality of life. Insurance companies pay amounts based upon diagnosed injuries and the length of treatment. Therefore, injured parties should see a physician and continue to receive treatment until they are better.
Consult an Attorney
Navigating the legal system after a Lyft accident can be challenging, especially if you’re recovering from injuries. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, helping you file claims and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to under Louisiana law.
