Lyft Accident Lawyer in Massachusetts

Lyft Insurance Coverage: The Three Periods

Lyft’s insurance structure is built around the driver’s status in the app at the time of the accident. Period 1: The driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request. During this period, Lyft’s contingent liability coverage applies, but only if the driver’s personal auto insurance denies the claim. Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger. During this period, Lyft’s full commercial insurance applies. Period 3: The passenger is in the vehicle. Full commercial insurance applies. If the driver was not logged into the Lyft app at all, the accident falls entirely outside Lyft’s insurance, and only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.

If You Were Injured as a Lyft Passenger

If you were injured in a Lyft vehicle during Periods 2 or 3, Lyft’s commercial insurance should cover your injuries. This coverage has substantially higher limits than personal auto insurance, reflecting the commercial nature of the transportation service. Attorney Lavey represents injured Lyft passengers and pursues every dollar of available commercial coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If You Were Injured by a Lyft Driver

If a Lyft driver caused a crash that injured you as a driver, cyclist, or pedestrian in another vehicle, the same three-period analysis applies to determine which insurance covers your claim. In Periods 2 and 3, Lyft’s commercial insurance covers the Lyft driver’s liability to injured third parties. Attorney Lavey identifies the applicable coverage period in every Lyft accident case.

Lyft as a Transportation Network Company

Lyft is classified under Massachusetts law as a Transportation Network Company (TNC). Massachusetts TNC regulations establish minimum insurance requirements for rideshare companies operating in the state. These minimum requirements serve as the floor for the insurance Lyft must maintain. Attorney Lavey is familiar with Massachusetts TNC regulations and applies them in every Lyft accident case to ensure the applicable coverage is identified and pursued.

What to Document After a Lyft Accident

Take a screenshot of the Lyft app showing the trip details, your name, the driver’s name, and the trip status at the time of the accident. Photograph the Lyft vehicle, the driver’s display of their Lyft sign, and the accident scene. Get the names and contact information of all witnesses. Seek medical attention promptly. Contact Attorney Lavey before speaking with Lyft’s insurance. The app screenshot is critical evidence of which coverage period applies.

Frequently Asked Questions