Ride-hail services like Lyft have made getting around easier than ever. But accidents do happen. If you are a passenger and your Lyft driver gets into an accident you may be wondering what your rights are and whether you can take legal action. Hillstone Law is here to explain what steps you can take and how you may be protected.

Can You Sue Lyft or the Driver

If you are injured as a passenger in a Lyft accident you may be able to hold either the driver or Lyft responsible depending on what caused the accident. Possible parties to hold responsible include:

• The Lyft driver if they were negligent, distracted, reckless, or violated traffic laws
• Another driver involved in the crash if their actions led to the collision
• Lyft itself if the company failed at vetting or supervising its drivers or if their policies contributed to unsafe conditions

Wrongful death claims may also apply if a loved one dies as a result of an accident involving a Lyft ride.

Insurance Coverage

Lyft is required by California law to carry liability insurance that may cover passengers from the moment a ride request is accepted until you exit the vehicle. The policy minimum is typically $1 million in coverage during that period. This may cover medical bills and property damage. However Lyft or its insurers often investigate carefully, and they may try to limit what they pay, deny claims, or reduce amounts. It is generally not wise to try to settle directly with Lyft without legal advice.

What You Should Do Right After the Accident

If you are involved in a Lyft ride that ends with a crash take these actions to protect your rights:

• Check for injuries immediately and seek medical attention even if you do not feel hurt at first
• Gather evidence from the scene such as photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, any visible injuries, skid marks, etc.
• Get names and contact info of witnesses including other passengers, the other driver(s), and anyone who saw what happened
• Keep copies of all medical records, bills, repair estimates for any property damage, receipts for out of pocket expenses
• Avoid talking about fault or admitting blame at the scene or in filings
• Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who understands Lyft/ride-hail accident law

How Hillstone Law Can Help You

Hillstone Law assists passengers from the very beginning after a Lyft accident. What we do:

• Evaluate the facts of your case to determine who is liable and whether Lyft or the driver can be held responsible
• Collect evidence and preserve it before it is lost or altered
• Handle communication with insurance companies to make sure your claim is not undervalued or unfairly denied
• Help you understand how Lyft’s insurance works and what compensation you may be entitled to
• Guide you toward obtaining full compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, property damage, and in wrongful death cases the relevant damages including funeral and related losses

Why You Should Act Quickly

Statutes of limitations limit how long you have to file a lawsuit in California. Waiting too long can weaken your legal options and make it harder to gather evidence or secure witness testimony. For your best chance of full recovery and justice contact Hillstone Law promptly for a free case evaluation.