How Long Does it Take To Settle a Lyft Accident Case? 

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Rideshare apps such as Lyft offer an easy and convenient way to get around. Many people opt to use Lyft as opposed to public transportation as they are not only convenient, but many people also view them as safer. However, trips don’t always end well with Lyft. Like other motorists on the road, Lyft drivers are at risk of being involved in an accident. If you were involved in an accident caused by a Lyft driver, you may be able to recover compensation from Lyft’s insurance coverage. 

Lyft’s Insurance Coverage 

Pursuing compensation in an accident involving a Lyft driver can be complex. This is mainly because Lyft drivers are not considered employees but are listed as independent contractors. However, state laws require rideshare companies such as Lyft to carry insurance that covers their drivers when they are on the clock. This means that you can pursue Lyft’s insurance for compensation for an accident caused by a Lyft driver. However, there is a catch. The driver is only covered if he was on the clock at the time of the accident. This means that the driver should either have been logged into the app and transporting a Lyft passenger, en route to picking up a passenger or waiting for requests from passengers. 

You will first have to seek compensation from the Lyft driver’s insurance. If you are not fully compensated by the driver’s liability insurance, you can then pursue a claim against Lyft. Lyft’s liability coverage has a limit of $1.5 million for bodily injuries and property damage. 

How to Pursue a Claim against Lyft 

There are several steps in the process of submitting a claim against Lyft. 

• The claims process begins by reporting the accident to the company. This may be done by sending information through the application or by getting in touch with the company’s customer support team. 
• You will be directed to file a claim with the insurance provider that provides Lyft with insurance coverage in your area. 
• You will be required to submit a demand letter to the insurance provider. This should include evidence that supports your claim. You should show that the Lyft driver is liable for the accident and provide evidence to show the extent of your damages. The demand letter should also include the amount you are seeking in compensation. 
• The insurance company has 40 days in which to respond to the claim. 
• This is followed by several rounds of submitting proposals and counter-proposals until a settlement is reached 

How Long Does it Take to Settle a Lyft Accident Claim 

In many cases, Lyft accident claims end with a settlement. It can take several months to reach a settlement with the insurer if the liability of the driver is not contested. However, if liability is contested, it can even take years to reach a settlement with the insurance company. 

Contact the Rochelle Park Personal Injury Attorneys to Schedule Your Free Consultation

It is advisable to have a legal professional guiding and representing you throughout the process. Contact our law firm to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about how you can recover compensation from Lyft for your accident. The experienced attorneys at The Epstein Law Firm, P.A. represent clients injured because of Lyft accidents in Jersey City, Union City, Bayonne, Hoboken, and throughout New Jersey. Call (201) 380-7687 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 340 West Passaic St., Rochelle Park, NJ 07762.

The articles on this blog are for informational purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.