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Tampa Lyft Accident Attorneys
Lyft has made it easier to get around Tampa than ever before. Unfortunately, ridesharing services and their drivers have also caused serious, injury-causing accidents that can leave passengers, other motorists, pedestrians, or bicyclists with extremely serious injuries.
If you were injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver, contacting an attorney promptly is essential. Our team has 45 years of experience helping accident victims and recently secured $400,000 for a client hurt in a rideshare accident. Reach out today to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation with our Tampa, FL Lyft accident lawyer.
The Causes of Lyft Accidents
Lyft accidents can occur for any of the same reasons other motor vehicle accidents happen.
Distracted Driving
One of the leading causes of Lyft accidents is distracted driving. When drivers are distracted by their phones, conversations, or other activities, their attention is diverted from the road. This can result in slower reaction times, swerving, and, ultimately, accidents.
Fatigue
Another common cause of Lyft accidents is driver fatigue. Rideshare drivers often work long hours to make ends meet, leading to exhaustion behind the wheel. Fatigue can impair a driver’s ability to stay alert and focused, increasing the risk of accidents.
Reckless Driving
In some cases, Lyft accidents occur due to reckless driving. Speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to follow traffic laws are all examples of reckless driving behaviors. These actions put not only the driver but also their passengers and other road users at risk.
Intoxication
As shocking as it might seem, sometimes Lyft drivers use drugs or alcohol (or both) before they get behind the wheel. When drivers are intoxicated, it can affect their reaction time, vision, judgment, and motor skills, significantly increasing the risk of an accident. Fortunately, under Florida law, if you are injured by an intoxicated driver, you are very likely to be entitled to compensation for your losses.
Can Victims Hold Lyft Liable for Accidents Caused by Their Drivers?
If you have been hurt in a Lyft accident, you may be wondering who you can hold liable for your injuries – the driver? Lyft? Someone else? In many rideshare accidents, the answer is simpler than you might expect. Whose insurance covers an accident depends on what the driver is doing at the time they cause the accident:
- If the driver had the app off when they caused an accident, Lyft does not provide any coverage. In other words, you would proceed as you would in any other car accident and file a claim against the driver’s insurance policy.
- If the driver had the app on and was waiting to accept a passenger, Lyft provides secondary insurance coverage in the amount of $50,000.
- If the driver was on their way to pick up a passenger or actively providing a ride, Lyft provides primary coverage in the amount of $1,000,000.
The most effective way to ensure that you obtain the compensation you deserve after a Lyft accident is to call an attorney as soon as possible.
Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with a Lyft Accident Lawyer in Tampa
If you have been injured in a Lyft accident in the Tampa area, you should call Mickey Keenan, PA, as soon as you can. Our skilled team of lawyers knows how to hold rideshare drivers and companies accountable for the injuries they cause. To schedule a free case evaluation with an attorney, call our office today or contact us online.
Multiple People Injured In Lyft Accident
Our Tampa, FL Lyft accident lawyer knows that if you are involved in a Lyft accident with multiple people, the situation can quickly become confusing. In accidents with several passengers, drivers, or third parties, determining who is responsible and how compensation will be handled can get complicated. However, it’s important to know that as a passenger or injured party, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and other losses. At Mickey Keenan P.A., we understand the challenges that can arise in rideshare accidents, especially when multiple people are involved. Our goal is to help you recover the compensation you deserve and guide you through the steps necessary to protect your rights. With multiple locations, we can best serve you.
Gathering Information At The Scene
If you can do so, gathering information at the scene of the accident is one of the most important things you can do. When multiple people are involved, it’s essential to get contact information from everyone present, including the Lyft driver, other drivers, passengers, and any witnesses. Make a note of the names, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers for each vehicle involved.
If the police arrive on the scene, they will document the accident and prepare an official report. Be sure to request a copy of the police report later, as it will contain important details about the accident. In addition, take photos of the vehicles, the damage, and your injuries. These photos can serve as valuable evidence when filing your claim.
Reporting The Accident To Lyft
As a passenger in a Lyft, it’s important to report the accident to the company as soon as possible. Lyft provides insurance coverage for passengers during an active ride, which begins when the driver accepts a ride request and ends once you reach your destination. Our Lyft accident lawyer in Tampa knows that you can report the accident through the Lyft app or by contacting their customer service.
After you report the accident, Lyft will initiate the claims process, and you will likely hear from their insurance company. It’s a good idea to be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters, as they may try to minimize your claim. Provide only factual information and avoid speculating about the cause of the accident or the extent of your injuries.
Dealing With Multiple Insurance Claims
When multiple people are involved in a Lyft accident, more than one insurance policy may come into play. In addition to Lyft’s insurance, the personal insurance policies of the Lyft driver, other drivers, and passengers may also be involved. Sorting through these different policies can be time-consuming, and it’s important to understand which coverage applies to your situation.
Lyft’s insurance policy includes liability coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and personal injury protection (PIP). If the Lyft driver is found to be at fault, Lyft’s liability coverage will apply. If another driver is responsible, their insurance will be the primary source of compensation, with Lyft’s coverage potentially acting as a secondary option if needed.
Seeking Compensation For Your Injuries
If you were injured in the accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Medical care can be expensive, and your injuries may require ongoing treatment. Compensation should cover not only the immediate costs but also any future expenses related to your recovery.
Contact Us For Support With Your Lyft Accident Claim
If you were involved in a Lyft accident with multiple people, pursuing compensation can become overwhelming. At Mickey Keenan P.A., we are here to help you through this process. Our team will work with you to understand the details of your case and fight for the compensation you need to move forward. Get in touch with our trusted Tampa Lyft accident lawyer for a free consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist you in getting the results you deserve.
Serious Injuries You Can Get From A Lyft Accident
Our trusted Tampa, FL Lyft accident lawyer knows that rideshare services like Lyft offer convenience, but accidents involving Lyft vehicles can result in severe injuries. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, pedestrian, or another motorist, the consequences of these accidents can be life-altering. We passionately represent injured victims and want you to feel at home when you work with us. Below are some of the serious injuries that can result from a Lyft accident and why they require attention.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI. A sudden impact during a collision can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, leading to a traumatic brain injury. Symptoms can range from mild concussions to more severe outcomes, such as memory loss, cognitive impairments, or long-term disabilities. TBIs often require extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
- Spinal Cord Injuries. Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious outcomes of car accidents, including those involving Lyft vehicles. Damage to the spine can result in partial or total paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Treatment and ongoing care for spinal injuries can be both intensive and costly.
- Fractures and Broken Bones. Our Lyft accident lawyer in Tampa knows that the force of a crash can lead to broken bones in various parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis. Some fractures heal relatively quickly, but others may require surgeries, physical therapy, or the use of assistive devices like crutches or braces. Compound fractures or injuries involving joints may have long-term effects on mobility.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries. Whiplash occurs when the neck is jolted back and forth abruptly during a collision. It’s a common injury in car accidents but can still be very painful and limit mobility. In severe cases, whiplash can cause chronic pain or damage to the vertebrae and nerves.
- Internal Injuries. Blunt force trauma from a Lyft accident can cause damage to internal organs, such as the lungs, liver, or spleen. These injuries are not always immediately visible but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Internal bleeding, in particular, requires urgent medical attention.
- Cuts and Lacerations. Shattered glass, debris, or sharp objects inside the vehicle can cause deep cuts or lacerations. These injuries may lead to significant blood loss, infections, or permanent scarring. Severe lacerations often require stitches or surgical intervention to repair.
- Burns. If a Lyft accident involves a fire or explosion, burns can be a serious concern. Burns vary in severity, with third-degree burns causing permanent damage to the skin and underlying tissues. Burn victims may require skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, and long-term care.
- Psychological Trauma. The emotional toll of a Lyft accident should not be underestimated. Victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Emotional injuries often accompany physical injuries, requiring therapy or counseling to recover fully.
If you’ve suffered serious injuries in a Lyft accident, it’s important to understand your rights and the options available for seeking compensation. At Mickey Keenan P.A., we help individuals and families pursue fair recovery for the harm they’ve endured. Contact our Lyft accident lawyer in FL today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can assist you with your case.