Columbia
Lyft Accident Lawyer in Columbia

Rideshare services have made getting around convenient, fast, and accessible for countless people. Whether you’re heading to work, a social event, or the airport, these can feel like a lifeline. But when a Lyft ride turns dangerous, the aftermath is anything but simple.

Accidents involving Lyft vehicles often introduce new challenges to already complicated circumstances. Injuries can be major, fault can be complicated, and insurance coverage can be confusing, but a rideshare accident lawyer in Columbia can help you handle it all.

At John Foy & Associates, our attorneys have 350 years of combined experience recovering over $1 billion in compensation as The Strong Arm™ in South Carolina. We’re here to help as your Lyft accident lawyer in Columbia.

How Lyft Accidents Happen in Columbia

Lyft accidents often occur in predictable scenarios, but that doesn’t make them any less shocking. Columbia’s busy streets, rush-hour traffic, and areas with high pedestrian activity create the perfect storm for collisions.

More specifically, these are common causes of these accidents in the area:

• Intersection crashes caused by drivers failing to yield
• Rear-end collisions, often from distracted driving or sudden stops
• Lane-change accidents when drivers misjudge distance or speed
• Highway merges, where split-second decisions can end in disaster
• Pedestrian or cyclist impacts, particularly near popular pickup or drop-off locations

Even minor accidents can leave riders shaken, injured, and unsure who’s responsible. While vehicles may be built to protect occupants, the force of impact can still cause serious injuries. To pursue compensation, contact a car accident lawyer in Columbia right away.

The Role Insurance Plays in Lyft-Related Collision Cases

A rather confusing aspect of a Lyft crash is the process of understanding insurance coverage. As your personal injury lawyer in Columbia will explain, rideshare incidents are unlike standard car crashes because they involve layered policies.

These policies can shift depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the collision. Here’s a closer look at the three possible stages that could have been at play when the crash occurred:

• Driver not using the app: The driver’s personal auto insurance usually applies.
• Driver logged into the app but waiting for a ride request: Lyft’s contingent liability policy may cover the accident.
• Passenger in the car or ride accepted: Lyft’s $1 million commercial insurance typically applies, covering injuries to passengers and third parties.

Each scenario has different rules and coverage limits, and determining which policy applies can be complicated. Insurance adjusters often scrutinize every detail to minimize their payout, leaving victims to navigate the process themselves unless they understand their rights.

Injuries That Often Result From Lyft Accidents

When looking over the details of your case, your Lyft accident attorney in Columbia will want to fully understand the full extent of your injuries. The injuries sustained in a Lyft crash can range from minor bruises to major trauma.

Even at relatively low speeds, the human body absorbs significant force during a collision. With that in mind, these are common injuries sustained by victims of these crashes:

• Whiplash and neck strain, which can linger for months
• Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries
• Back and spinal damage, affecting mobility and quality of life
• Fractures and broken bones, requiring surgery or long-term rehabilitation
• Internal injuries, sometimes undetectable at the scene
• Emotional trauma, such as anxiety, fear of riding again, or PTSD

For many victims, the physical injuries are only part of the story. The emotional impact—stress, sleepless nights, and fear of future rides—can be just as debilitating.

Fault and Liability in South Carolina

South Carolina follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver responsible for the crash is liable for damages. But with Lyft, determining fault can involve multiple parties: the Lyft driver, another motorist, or even a pedestrian.

The state also uses a modified comparative negligence system, which can reduce a victim’s compensation if they are partially at fault. If a victim is found 50% or more responsible, they cannot recover damages.

This makes accurate documentation and evidence more important than ever. Photos of the scene, medical records, witness statements, and app data can all play a role in establishing fault and maximizing potential recovery.

The Financial Consequences of a Lyft Accident

Injuries from a Lyft crash can lead to significant financial strain. Medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care costs can add up quickly, especially if multiple parties are involved and insurance coverage is unclear.

Victims may face the following costs in the aftermath of the collision:

• Emergency room and hospital bills
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Lost income or reduced earning capacity
• Property damage to vehicles or personal items
• Emotional support or counseling costs

Insurance settlements often fail to cover the full spectrum of losses, which can leave victims struggling to pay bills or return to their normal routine.

Contact Our Columbia Lyft Accident Law Firm Today

Understanding the circumstances of the rideshare-related incident that caused your injuries can help you make informed decisions about your case. At John Foy & Associates, we recognize that life after a Lyft crash can feel uncertain, but we’re here to provide you with clarity.

We’ll look at the details of your circumstances and prepare your case with a favorable outcome in mind. You can count on us to help victims like you regain control as we pursue compensation on your behalf and work hard to hold the at-fault parties accountable for your injuries.

While the emotional, physical, and financial consequences of rideshare-related collisions are a lot to handle, calling our Lyft accident law firm in Columbia is the first step toward rebuilding stability and regaining peace of mind. Reach out for more information.