Lyft Accidents Come with Many Complications
Since first arriving in San Diego in 2012, Lyft’s ride-sharing service has become an increasingly popular way of getting around the city. Along with numerous other cities, San Diego has embraced the innovative business model offered by Lyft, enabling passengers to hail a ride using a smartphone app, track their driver and pay using a pre-registered debit or credit card. Whether you are rushing to a meeting away from your usual office, or have just arrived in an unfamiliar city, Lyft can save you a significant amount of time, money and effort. In short, the number one attraction of Lyft, and other ride-sharing services, is their convenience, closely followed by the cheaper rates than traditional taxi cabs.
With all the convenience and affordability of Lyft, it is easy to forget that there are also some potential downsides. Aside from any ethical concerns you may harbor about using this modern mode of transport, you should be aware of the potential complexity of determining liability after a Lyft accident, whether you were a Lyft passenger, or driver of another vehicle when the collision occurred.
The good news is you will not need to navigate this complexity, as you can entrust your case to an experienced San Diego Lyft accident attorney from Hiden, Rott & Oertle, LLP.
Is It Safe to Use Lyft and Other Ride-Sharing Services?
Although Lyft can get bad press at times, using the service should be as safe as using any other mode of road-based transportation. Drivers are subjected to detailed background checks at least once per year, and the tracking ability means you know exactly who is coming to pick you up, what they look like, and the make, model and license number of their car. However, all the background checks and safety measures in the world cannot protect you from the actions of a dangerous or reckless driver.
In terms of regulation, Lyft is governed by the California Public Utilities Commission’s licensing of transportation network companies (TNCs), which states that they must hold:
- Company-issued insurance with a per-accident cap of at least $100,000
- The per-person limit on this insurance policy must also be at least $50,000
- Coverage for both injuries and fatalities
- A minimum of $30,000 in property coverage
- A per-accident compensation limit of at least $1 million
- Cover against collisions with uninsured or under-insured motorists
Common Causes of San Diego Lyft Accidents
As Lyft cars are simply cars, the common causes of Lyft accidents are identical to those associated with San Diego car accidents, including:
- Distracted driving, primarily relating to cellphone use while behind the wheel
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Aggressive or reckless driving, including road rage
- Driving at excessive speeds
- Poor road conditions
- Poorly maintained vehicles
- Defective vehicle parts, including seatbelts and brakes
- Adverse weather conditions
Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation with a San Diego Lyft Accident Attorney
Although the causes may be the same, the legalities involved in securing compensation following a Lyft accident are significantly more complex than for a standard car accident. As such, it is strongly recommended that you instruct a San Diego Lyft accident attorney to handle your case.
To schedule your free initial consultation, contact us online. You may also call Hiden, Rott & Oertle, LLP, today on 619-369-3323.