More and more people are using ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft in the US and across the world. Thus, it’s quite natural that the number of accidents involving vehicles from these companies is also on the rise. A normal car accident is by itself quite complex because you may not get awarded all the damages, involving a paid third party driver increases the complexity of the situation. The St. Petersburg Lyft Accident Attorneys at Shocklee Paolino are well versed in handling the intricacies of a Lyft accident.
Lyft Accident
A car accident involving a Lyft driver is even more complex because you will have to identify who is liable for the damages caused: Lyft or the Driver. In all probability, expect both to deny the responsibility and pass the blame to others in an effort to save their necks.
Lyft uses a unique business model which is quite different from normal taxi services. Most Lyft drivers are not employees of the company as they largely work as independent contractors. This may not seem a large difference at first sight but can be the decisive factor in determining the liability for damages caused in an accident.
If a driver is working with Lyft as an independent contractor, then the liability of Lyft may be limited for any damage or injury caused during an accident. Lyft basically offers 2 different types of insurance policies to its drivers which are known as comprehensive and contingent policies, respectively.
Comprehensive Lyft policy, as the name would suggest, generally covers a wide variety of damages and has very high limit. Contingent Lyft policy may not cover all types of damages and injuries and often has a much lower limit. A driver’s personal insurance policy may also cover damages caused to you during an accident.
Compensation for a Lyft Car Accident
Compensation for a Lyft car accident depends on several factors such as the type of policy, maximum sum payable under the policy, current and future medical bills, vehicle damage, pain, loss of future wages and income, loss of mobility and the like.
As expected, compensation for larger damages is higher compared to compensation awarded in cases of minor injuries. Suing the driver or Lyft is a complex process and you will most likely need the help of a professional lawyer who has prior experience in dealing with Lyft accident cases.
Get the Help of a St. Petersburg Lyft Accident Lawyer
If you are residing around St. Petersburg and are currently looking for a St. Petersburg Lyft Accident Lawyer, the experienced attorneys at Shocklee Paolino are here to help. Call us at (727) 498-8771 for free consultation.