Newport News Lyft Accident Lawyer

Services like Lyft have changed how people get around. But while using a rideshare is easy and affordable, it’s not risk-free. Rideshare drivers can be just as reckless as other motorists. If you’re hurt as a passenger, you have the right to seek damages. An experienced Lyft accident lawyer in Newport News will help you file a claim.

My personal injury law firm, Atkinson Law, is committed to protecting injured victims’ rights throughout Virginia. I have over 15 years of legal experience; let me serve as your Newport News rideshare accident lawyer. Call me for a free consultation.

The Right Newport News Lyft Accident Attorney for Your Case

Lyft accident cases are different from other crashes mainly because of the specific relationship between the rideshare company, drivers, and passengers. This relationship adds complexity when determining insurance coverage and liability. As an experienced car accident lawyer in Newport News, I know how to navigate the insurance claim and lawsuit process successfully.

For example, drivers working with Lyft aren’t considered employees but independent contractors. This can make it hard to hold the rideshare company responsible for the driver’s actions. Given the complexity of Lyft accident cases, it’s best to talk to a lawyer like me who has experience handling these types of accident claims.

I’ll create a legal strategy based on your needs. Unlike big law firms, where your voice might get lost, I’m really interested in listening to your story. I understand the challenges you may face if you were hurt in a rideshare accident. As your Newport News personal injury lawyer, I’ll guide you through the complex legal process and protect for your rights.

How Lyft Insurance Coverage Works

Technology is important in these types of cases. For example, the insurance coverage depends on whether the driver had their Lyft app turned on at the time of the accident, showing they were on the job.

Lyft drivers, who are independent contractors, must have personal auto insurance that meets Virginia’s requirements. Lyft says they add extra insurance coverage when the driver’s app is on and they’re waiting for a passenger, driving to pick one up, or transporting a passenger.

If you were involved in a crash with an Uber driver, I can tell you more about how this rideshare company handles the insurance coverage. I can also serve as your Uber accident lawyer in Newport News.

The App Is Turned Off

If the driver is not logged into the Lyft app when the accident happens, their auto insurance will cover damages up to their policy limit. So, Lyft drivers need to have good auto insurance coverage to protect themselves and any passengers when they are not actively using the Lyft app.

The App Is On, and the Driver Can Receive Ride Requests

Lyft offers third-party liability insurance if the driver’s personal insurance doesn’t apply for an eligible accident. To learn more about what this means to your case, consult a Lyft accident attorney in Newport News.

The Lyft insurance coverage includes at least:

• $25,000 per crash for property damage
• $50,000 per person for bodily injury
• $100,000 per crash for bodily injury

The App Is On, and the Driver Is en Route or Transporting a Client

Lyft maintains the following insurance coverage for eligible accidents:

• First-party coverages: Lyft could provide extra coverages, such as Personal Injury Protection (PIP), underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage, Occupational Accident coverage, and Medical Payments (MedPay).
• Third-party auto liability: Lyft has a minimum of $1,000,000 coverage for liability towards third parties involved in the collision.
• Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage: If the Lyft driver has collision or comprehensive coverage on their auto insurance policy, the rideshare company offers coverage up to the actual cash value of the car.

Available Damages for Lyft Accident Victims

As an injured victim, you may be able to recover different types of damages. As your Newport News Lyft accident lawyer, I understand the financial impact you’re dealing with after the crash. I’ll work closely with you to calculate all your losses and work with experts to estimate your future expenses.

After reviewing your Lyft accident case, I can determine how much money you should receive. I will fight for the maximum compensation possible to help you fully recover. My track record of successful case results shows my dedication.

Being in a Lyft accident can have an immediate financial effect on your life. For example, you may have suffered serious injuries, like acute spinal cord damage, that need urgent medical care and time off work.

After a Lyft collision, you could get damages, such as:

• Medical bills
• Future medical costs
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning potential
• Property damage
• Emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement

Accident victims often have emotional scars that are just as serious as physical injuries. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues after a crash, I can help you claim damages for these emotional losses.

You Could Also Get Punitive Damages

Punitive damages punish the defendant and deter others from similar actions. To receive them, you must generally prove the defendant showed an unlawful disregard for your rights. A common example is a drunk driving accident. As an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in Newport News, I can determine if your case qualifies.

If the driver’s BAC was 0.15%, it shows a clear disregard for road safety. Also, if they unreasonably refuse a BAC test, they show a disregard for the rights of others under Virginia Code §8.01-44.5.

File a Personal Injury Lawsuit Under Virginia’s Statute of Limitations

If you want to sue the at-fault driver, you must generally do so within two years, according to Virginia’s statute of limitations. It’s important to get legal help as soon as possible after the crash. In time, important evidence can get lost or damaged.

As an experienced attorney in Newport News, I know these cases are time-sensitive. I will work quickly to build a strong claim for you and file before the deadline.

Call an Experienced Newport News Lyft Accident Attorney

You can seek compensation for your damages after a rideshare crash. Atkinson Law will prove the full extent of your losses and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf. As a Lyft accident lawyer in Newport News, VA, I will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and assess your losses.

You don’t have to face this alone. Contact my law firm for a free, no-obligation case review. I will carefully listen to your story and discuss the next steps.