Rideshare apps like Lyft have gained popularity in recent years. They offer an alternative option for transportation that eliminates much of the hassle involved with driving your vehicle while providing convenience and comfort. Unfortunately, riding in a Lyft still presents a risk of being involved in an accident, which could leave you with severe injuries.
If you were a passenger in Lyft and suffered injuries, you may wonder whether you have legal recourse. A Peachtree Corners Lyft accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and seek compensation for your injuries and other losses. Contact Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC, to discuss your case in a free consultation.
Most Common Causes of Lyft Accidents
Some of the most common factors that lead to Uber and Lyft accidents include:
- Distraction — Lyft drivers may be distracted by phone calls, navigation systems, and other electronics, as well as by eating, drinking, or attempting to carry on conversations with passengers.
- Reckless Driving — If a rideshare driver is in a hurry and trying to complete a trip as quickly as possible, they may engage in reckless driving behaviors that increase the risk of an accident.
- Lack of Familiarity with the Area — A rideshare driver may be unfamiliar with the area, leading them to make mistakes and compromise their ability to concentrate on the road.
- Speeding — Lyft drivers may drive at speeds that exceed the posted limit or are unsafe for the overall driving conditions.
- Fatigue — Drivers working long hours or late at night are susceptible to fatigue, which can delay their reaction time, causing them to veer outside their lane and into oncoming traffic.
- Impairment — Drug and alcohol use is a factor in some Lyft accidents, as impaired drivers are more likely to make errors in judgment and have slower reaction times.
Should I File an Accident Report to Lyft After a Crash?
Following an Uber or Lyft accident, you should report the incident to the company. A representative will likely contact you and request basic personal details and information about the accident. Stick to the basic facts in your answers. If the representative offers a settlement agreement, do not accept. Tell them that you must discuss it with your attorney.
An experienced Lyft accident attorney can help you communicate with Lyft and insurance representatives, look out for your best interests, and help you seek insurance coverage.
What To Do After Being Injured in a Lyft Accident
What happens if your Lyft driver gets in an accident? After seeking emergency medical treatment and filing a Lyft accident report, contact a Peachtree Corners attorney with experience handling Lyft accident claims. They’ll be able to advise you on the next steps.
Here are some other things you can do after suffering injuries in a Lyft accident to protect your right to compensation:
- Follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations, and keep all follow-up appointments.
- Keep copies of bills, invoices, and receipts related to your medical treatment and other costs associated with the crash.
- Avoid discussing the crash or your injuries on social media.
- Preserve evidence from the accident scene, such as pictures of vehicle damage, road conditions, or visible injuries.
- Let your attorney handle communication with Lyft representatives and insurance coverage providers.
Determining Liability After Georgia Lyft Accidents
Determining who is liable for injuries in Uber and Lyft accidents is critical to seeking maximum compensation. Because all motorists owe each other a duty to drive carefully and avoid causing harm, a Lyft driver may be liable for injuries in a crash the driver caused due to negligence or carelessness. For instance, a Lyft driver who runs a red light, exceeds the posted speed limit, or otherwise breaks traffic rules could be at fault for a crash.
Rideshare companies may also be liable if the company fails to screen Uber and Lyft drivers properly and hires drivers with a history of traffic accidents or reckless driving behavior.
Your Peachtree Corners Lyft accident attorney will review the evidence to determine all parties liable for your injuries and other losses.
Damages Awarded in Georgia Lyft Accident Claims
If you’ve been hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be dealing with severe injuries, along with costly medical bills. If treating your injuries requires you to miss work, you may also be worried about lost income.
Fortunately, your attorney can help you seek Lyft accident compensation that pays for your financial and personal losses, which may include the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity and benefits
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
Your attorney will evaluate the evidence and calculate your losses to determine an amount representing total compensation for your injuries and harm.
Deadline to File an Injury Claim For a Lyft Car Accident
In Georgia, car accident victims typically have two years from the accident date to file an Uber or Lyft accident lawsuit. While this may seem like plenty of time, you shouldn’t delay contacting an attorney to initiate the legal process. It takes time to assemble a strong case, and your attorney must review all the evidence. If you miss the statutory deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you’ll lose your right to seek compensation in civil court.
Talk to an Experienced Lyft Accident Lawyer in Peachtree Corners, GA Today
After a Lyft accident, you deserve time and space to focus on healing from your injuries and moving forward with your life. You shouldn’t have to pursue legal action on your own.
At Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC, we help injury victims pursue the compensation they need for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. We’re committed to helping clients like you achieve justice and financial relief. Our team provides personalized, compassionate service to every client. Our firm focuses exclusively on personal injury cases, so we have the experience and knowledge to handle the most complex cases.
Contact Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC, to learn more about your legal rights during a free consultation with one of our Lyft accident lawyers in Peachtree Corners, GA.
