What Happens If I Get in an Accident While Driving for Lyft?
Driving for Lyft offers flexibility and income potential, but it also involves risk. If you’re in an accident while working as a Lyft driver in New Orleans, you may be dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, lost income, and a confusing insurance process. At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we help rideshare drivers protect their rights and pursue fair compensation after a crash. Here’s what every Lyft driver should know.
Am I Covered by Insurance While Driving for Lyft?
Yes — but how much insurance applies depends on your status at the time of the accident:
- App Off:
If you’re not logged into the Lyft app, you are not considered to be working for Lyft. In this case, your personal auto insurance policy is the only coverage available. - App On, Waiting for a Ride Request:
When you’re logged into the Lyft app but haven’t accepted a ride, Lyft provides contingent liability coverage:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
This coverage only applies if your personal insurance denies the claim.
- En Route to a Passenger or With a Passenger in the Car:
Once you’ve accepted a ride request or are transporting a passenger, Lyft provides its primary commercial insurance coverage:
- Up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (if you have it on your personal policy)
This is the most robust coverage Lyft offers and is meant to protect you and your passengers during an active ride.
Who Is Liable in a Lyft Accident?
Liability in a Lyft accident depends on who was at fault:
- If you caused the accident, Lyft’s coverage may help cover the other party’s losses.
- If another driver is at fault, their insurance may be responsible.
- In some cases, multiple parties may share liability.
Keep in mind that even when liability seems clear, insurance companies may delay, deny, or underpay your claim. An attorney can help you ensure all liable parties are held accountable and that you’re treated fairly throughout the claims process.
What If I’m Injured While Driving for Lyft?
As a Lyft driver, if you are injured in an accident while actively driving for the platform, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency room and medical treatment
- Physical therapy or long-term care
- Lost income during recovery
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Damage to your vehicle
Lyft’s $1 million liability and uninsured motorist coverage may apply, but you’ll need to follow the correct steps to secure benefits. You may also need to provide proof that you were logged into the app and performing a ride at the time of the crash.
Do Lyft Drivers Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees. That means traditional workers’ compensation benefits generally do not apply. However, Lyft may offer an optional injury protection plan in certain states, including Louisiana. If you’re enrolled in this plan, it could provide limited benefits such as:
- Medical coverage
- Disability benefits
- Survivor benefits (in fatal accidents)
This coverage is not automatic — it must be opted into and may involve a small per-ride cost.
Why You Should Speak With a Rideshare Accident Attorney
Navigating a Lyft accident claim on your own can be difficult, especially when multiple insurance companies are involved and the law around rideshare liability continues to evolve. A rideshare accident attorney can:
- Conduct a full investigation of the crash
- Determine which insurance policies apply
- Handle communications with insurers and Lyft
- File claims, appeals, and lawsuits as needed
- Work to recover the full compensation you’re owed
Even a seemingly minor accident can have long-term financial consequences. Before accepting any settlement, it’s in your best interest to consult with an experienced legal advocate.
Injured While Driving for Lyft? Call Cueria Law Injury Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in an Lyft accident while driving in New Orleans, don’t try to navigate the legal maze alone. At Cueria Law Injury Lawyers, we have the experience and dedication to help you protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
📞 Call us today at (504) 525-5211 or contact us online for a free consultation.
