In recent years, ridesharing services like Lyft have revolutionized the way we travel. Offering convenience and flexibility, Lyft rides have become an integral part of urban and suburban travel. Unfortunately, however, the increased prevalence of Lyft and other ridesharing vehicles has worsened traffic congestion and resulted in an elevated number of traffic accidents. At Kohan Law Group, our attorneys are all too familiar with the devastating consequences of Lyft accidents and are committed to helping injured victims recover just compensation.
From our office in Manhasset, our accomplished legal team serves clients in Nassau and Suffolk Counties and throughout the five boroughs of New York City. If you have suffered a serious injury in a Lyft accident, now is the time to contact our highly capable lawyers.
We have in-depth knowledge of New York State traffic laws, insurance protocol, and rideshare regulations. We also have the sharp litigation skills to bring you the funds you need to cover your losses and reclaim control of your life. Your initial consultation with us is free and we will charge you no attorneys’ fees until we win you a meaningful settlement.
Causes of Lyft Accidents: Understanding the Risks
Lyft accidents occur for a variety of reasons, many of which are compounded by the nature of rideshare services. Some of the additional risk factors associated with rideshare vehicles include:
Driver Distraction — Lyft drivers typically rely on smartphones and other technical devices for GPS navigation and ride requests; this interferes with their ability to focus on the road.
Driver Fatigue — Rideshare drivers often work long hours to make their job profitable and many juggle multiple jobs. This leads to fatigue and decreased reaction times.
Inexperienced Drivers — Lyft only requires their drivers to have a driver’s license for one year and many Lyft drivers are unfamiliar with the roads they drive during work. The company does not train their drivers and the drivers need not have commercial licenses.
Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance — Lyft drivers drive their own cars. Unlike traditional taxis, Lyft vehicles are not subject to rigorous inspection or maintenance requirements and therefore may not be in good repair.
These factors may make a Lyft accident more likely than you think.
The Complexity of Determining Liability in a Lyft Accident
Determining liability in a Lyft accident can be significantly more complicated than doing so in a traditional vehicle accident. This complexity arises from the multi-layered relationships between the rideshare company, the driver, and third parties. Key factors include:
- Driver status — Liability depends on whether the Lyft driver was off the Lyft app entirely, waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger to their destination.
- Insurance coverage — Lyft provides varying levels of insurance coverage based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident, which can complicate the claims process and alter how much we may be able to recover in damages.
- Third-party involvement — Other drivers, motorcyclists or pedestrians may share responsibility for the accident. It is also possible that a government agency (e.g. if the accident was caused by poor road maintenance or traffic signal failure), a car manufacturer, or some other entity bears responsibility for your injury.
Because of the complications these variables may cause, it is essential to have a savvy Lyft accident attorney handling your case.
How Our Seasoned Lyft Accident Attorney Can Help
When you or a loved one is involved in a Lyft accident, securing experienced legal representation is crucial. The attorneys at Kohan Law Group will provide:
- Comprehensive investigation of your accident, including examination of police reports, medical data, and surveillance video
- Detailed understanding of New York State rideshare law
- Individualized representation using legal strategies designed to address the specific circumstances of your case
- Drafting, reviewing, and filing of any necessary documents
- Consulting with medical, technical or accident reconstruction experts who may testify on your behalf
- Negotiating skillfully with insurance adjusters and opposing attorneys to arrive at a fair settlement
- Litigating aggressively if necessary to recover maximum damages
You can rely on Kohan Law Group to do all the heavy lifting related to your claim, giving you and your family the time you need to rest and recover from your trauma.
Damages We Will Fight To Win
Our goal is the same as yours: to help you heal by providing you with the fullest possible compensation for your losses. We will fight tirelessly to bring you damages for:
- Medical costs, current and future
- Property damage
- Lost wages and/or diminished earning capacity
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In cases of gross negligence, our lawyer may seek additional punitive damages from the court.
Contact Kohan Law Group’s Experienced Lyft Accident Attorneys Now
Though the aftermath of a Lyft accident can be overwhelming, you do not have to navigate its challenges alone. Contact us today to feel the reassurance that comes from having the powerful legal advocacy and strong moral support of our team.