Injured in a Lyft Accident During Surge Pricing? What You Need to Know About Filing a Compensation Claim in New Jersey
The stress of being in a Lyft accident grows more intense during surge pricing periods when both roads become congested while drivers get more distracted. It becomes crucial for the injured to comprehend their rights together with the compensation claim procedure following Lyft collisions.
This blog will guide you through the steps of filing a claim and why it’s important to work with an experienced Lyft accident lawyer.
How Surge Pricing Increases the Risk of Lyft Accidents
The peak demand periods for surge pricing include weekends, rush hours, and calendar-based special occasions. During these periods, drivers increase to earn higher rates, but passengers face difficulties finding available taxis. This can lead to:
- The work schedules of Lyft drivers are extended to maximize their earnings, reducing their sensitivity to both responses and decisions on the road.
- Drivers experience distracted driving when they accept numerous ride requests because they must navigate while speaking with passengers.
- Driving at high speeds recklessly occurs when drivers push to complete more rides, creating unsafe traffic conditions and increasing the risk of accidents.
The elements in your Lyft accident injuries might show that your driver was negligent while prices were elevated.
Steps to Take After a Lyft Accident During Surge Pricing
You can build up your compensation case through immediate appropriate actions following a car accident. This is how:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Expert verification should always be performed for your safety regardless of your driving ability. Specific injuries such as concussions and whiplash, along with internal wounds, might delay the onset of symptoms but will escalate with time—medical evidence stands as a vital component for establishing your claim.
2. Report the Accident to Lyft
Utilize the Lyft application to report the incident immediately. Notifying the rideshare business ensures that your claim won’t be delayed or denied due to the absence of evidence.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are able, take photographs of:
- The scene of the accident includes damage to the vehicle as well as road conditions.
- Your injuries.
- Traffic signals, signs, or other hazards that could have caused the accident.
Also, gather the names of witnesses as their testimony could be used to be evidence to support your claim.
Understanding Insurance Coverage in Lyft Accidents
Drivers of Lyft must have insurance, but the amount offered is dependent on the status of the driver when they were involved in the accident:
- Driver Registered, but no passenger: Lyft provides limited liability insurance.
- Driver on the Way to Pick up a passenger or transport one: Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy is applicable for damages to property, medical costs, and other losses.
- Driver Not logged in to Lyft Lyft App: Only the driver’s insurance policy is applicable.
Most people find policy selection unclear. It can be beneficial to contact a professional attorney who handles rideshare accidents.
Filing a Claim Against Lyft’s Insurance
Dealing with multiple insurance providers can be stressful. Lyft’s insurer could try to limit your payout, and the driver’s insurer could claim responsibility. A knowledgeable Lyft legal lawyer will help you overcome these obstacles and ensure the responsible parties are accountable.
Why You Need a Lyft Accident Lawyer
Filing a Lyft accident claim can be a challenge for legal issues, and insurance companies typically insist on lower settlements. This is how a lawyer can assist:
1. Expertise in Rideshare Laws
The laws and rules applicable to rideshare accidents differ from those applicable to traditional car accidents. The expertise of an attorney focusing on Lyft accidents will enable you to create a strong claim leading to optimal compensation benefits.
2. Maximizing Your Compensation
Your lawyer will review the damages you have suffered, including:
- Medical costs (current and in the future)
- Loss of wages
- The pain and suffering
- Property damaged
Without representation from a lawyer and legal representation, you could end up paying less than what you’re entitled to.
3. In negotiations with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies strive to pay the lowest amount they can. A lawyer will negotiate to secure a just payment that defends your rights.
How Long Does a Lyft Accident Claim Take to Settle in New Jersey?
The settlement duration between insurance companies and court proceedings determines the time needed to resolve a case. The duration of settlement for legal claims ranges between a couple of months and exceeding twelve months. Your settlement process will become quicker with the help of an attorney who fights for equitable compensation.
Contact CourtLaw for Lyft Accident Claims in New Jersey
If you’ve been injured as a result of a Lyft accident that occurred during the peak pricing, don’t attempt to navigate the legal system on your own. CourtLaw’s experienced lawyers will get the compensation you’re entitled to.
Call us at 732.442.5900 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation today. Let us help you protect your rights and recover from your injuries with the legal representation you need.
