Lyft drivers face the same risk of accidents as any other driver on the road. In previous years, Lyft has tried to distance itself from this reality by categorizing its drivers as independent contractors and not employees. This characterization means that Lyft ought not to be held financially responsible for a driver’s negligence. There are many reasons for debate surrounding liability in Lyft accidents, so who do you turn to when you get injured?
If you have been injured through a Lyft driver’s negligent actions, contact a Guttenberg Lyft Accident Attorney to discuss your rights.
2017 Rideshare Liability Insurance Legislation
Rideshare services like Lyft are relatively new concepts, which explains why the laws regulating their real-life application are still new and developing. New Jersey passed a bill in 2017 that addresses the question of liability in a rideshare accident. The legislation is designed to protect Lyft accident victims and requires that drivers with passengers adhere to the following:
- When the Lyft app is turned off – If a driver is not actively seeking work, the insurance requirements do not apply. Their own coverage will be used in the event of an accident.
- When the driver is looking for a passenger – If the app is on and the driver is looking for a passenger, they must have a bodily injury coverage of $50,000 per person, and bodily injury and property damage coverages of $100,000 and $25,000 per accident.
- When a passenger is in the vehicle – If a Lyft driver is carrying a passenger, they must purchase a 1.5 million policy covering bodily injury, property damage, or death.
The insurance requirements set out in the 2017 bill replace the no-fault insurance laws that apply to other auto accidents in New Jersey. However, where the coverage does not apply, such as when the driver is looking for a passenger, accident victims may be required to revert to the traditional system.
Compensation in a Lyft Accident
The true cost of an accident will often exceed the medical expenses of receiving treatment. The 2017 bill was created to ensure that accident victims receive compensation for all their injury-related losses. While these may vary from case to case, you can expect to be reimbursed for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation, physical therapy, or aftercare
- Lost wages, income, benefits
- Lost earning capacity
- Emotional trauma
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage, such as damage to your phone
It is not always possible to determine the extent of your losses immediately after an accident. Your Guttenberg Lyft Accident Attorney will evaluate your case to ensure nothing is left out of your claim.
Talk to a Guttenberg Lyft Accident Attorney
Rideshare services like Lyft continue to gain popularity in New Jersey and the country as a whole. Did you know that over 5 million people requested Uber rides in 2017 alone? With this rise in prevalence, it should come as no surprise that Lyft accidents happen more regularly.
If you have been injured in a Lyft accident, it is never too soon to speak to an experienced Guttenberg Lyft Accident Attorney. Attorney Anthony Carbone has been representing accident victims in New Jersey for over 30 years. Contact him online today or at 201-733-2230 to schedule an initial consultation.
