What Lyft’s Insurance May Not Cover

Rideshare services like Lyft are part of everyday life for many people. They offer a convenient way to get around, especially in busy cities or when you don’t want to drive. But when a crash happens during a ride, the process of dealing with insurance can get confusing fast. While Lyft does provide insurance coverage, that coverage has limits. Knowing what may not be included is important if you’ve been involved in an accident as a passenger, driver, or third party.

When The App Is On But No Ride Is Accepted

One area where coverage becomes limited is when a Lyft driver is active on the app but hasn’t accepted a ride. During this time, Lyft provides third-party liability coverage. However, this coverage only applies if the driver’s personal auto insurance doesn’t. That means if the driver’s own insurer refuses to pay, then Lyft’s backup policy may step in, but only up to certain limits.

Also, this coverage doesn’t include collision or comprehensive protection for the driver’s vehicle. So if the driver is hit during this period or causes a crash, repairs to their own car may not be covered by Lyft at all.

After A Ride Is Accepted And Until Drop-Off

Once a ride is accepted and a passenger is either en route or already in the vehicle, Lyft’s full policy is active. This includes $1 million in third-party liability and limited uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. However, this doesn’t mean every possible situation is covered. For example, if another driver causes the crash but lacks sufficient insurance, passengers may still face gaps in recovery.

Lyft’s uninsured motorist coverage can help, but it may not fully cover long-term losses or all medical bills, especially in more severe cases. Car accident lawyers can help you explore all possible avenues for compensation, including if the driver or Lyft themselves are liable.

Driver Conduct And Policy Violations

Another area where coverage can fall short is when the Lyft driver is accused of violating company policies. If the driver was off-route, making personal stops, or breaking traffic laws, the company may dispute liability. In certain cases, Lyft could argue that the driver wasn’t properly logged in or wasn’t acting within the scope of their role at the time of the incident. A Lyft accident lawyer can investigate your case to hold the right party accountable.

Third Parties And Property Damage

People outside the rideshare trip often face even more barriers. Lyft’s coverage for third-party claims is limited and tied to the driver’s app status. If the coverage doesn’t apply, victims may be left dealing with the driver’s personal insurance, which could deny the claim if the driver was using the car for commercial purposes without the proper policy. Attorneys like those at Kelso Law know how to navigate unclear legal situations.

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare crash, an attorney can help you determine what benefits you’re entitled to and who should be held responsible. Insurance coverage can be helpful, but it’s not always automatic, and knowing what may not be covered can help you take the right steps early. Call an attorney today to get the help you need!