Multi lane highways demand constant vigilance. The number of lanes often expands and shrinks depending on the expected density of traffic and likely constrictions. Whenever the number of lanes diminishes, drivers must be prepared to merge into another lane, all the time keeping a sharp look out for traffic already in that lane. Similarly, entering a highway from another road also involves merging. It is at times like this that accidents are frequent.
Drivers who are tired, distracted by something, have problem with visibility, or just fail to drive carefully enough, may smash into other vehicles as they attempt to merge. If you have been hit by another driver, such as a Lyft driver, you may be able to claim compensation from the driver or from the rideshare company, depending on the circumstances. Talk to a personal injury lawyer about your legal options.
Injuries Caused by a Vehicle Merging Accident
Rideshare drivers wait around waiting for someone to be driven somewhere, but because of the profit margins being slim, may take unnecessary risks when they have a ride. If you are hit on the side by a car operated by a rideshare driver you could be thrown to one side and suffer bruising, cuts and possibly more serious injuries. Merging accidents may not on the whole be as serious as head-on or t-bone accidents, but there is always the possibility of a multi-vehicle accident involving other vehicles as your car is hit and pushed out of your own lane.
If you are pushed or forced into another lane, you risk being hit in the rear by another driver altogether. You could suffer from more serious injuries such as whiplash, lacerations, facial and head damage and spinal injuries.
The Process for Filing a Personal Injury Claim For an Accident with a Rideshare Vehicle
Collisions with ride share drivers are complicated because their insurance changes with what they are doing. If they have their app turned off, then their own insurance is meant to cover them if they hit you. If the app is turned on, they are acting as a commercial driver and cannot use ordinary personal 3rd party insurance, but the company provides a minimal amount of insurance. If the driver is actively driving to pick up a passenger, or is carrying a passenger then the company provides much more insurance cover.
Because of these important differences you must find out who to file your claim with and have proof of liability. Most merging accidents tend to be the fault of the merging driver who is supposed to only merge when safe to do so. However, you will need evidence that the driver was acting in a negligent way to have a chance of obtaining compensation from the relevant insurance provider. Eyewitnesses and police officers who attend the accident scene are the first choice when it comes to finding suitable evidence.
Why you Need a PI Lawyer
A PI lawyer will have dealt with Lyft driver accidents before and will know whether the accident you were involved in makes the driver, or Lyft itself, liable for damages. You have a better chance of obtaining the sort of compensation you deserve if the lawyer pursues a claim on your behalf.
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Lyft, or another party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
