Ridesharing companies like Lyft have exploded in popularity in Pittsburgh and elsewhere. Riders have embraced the system because it offers convenient scheduling through an app and much lower fares than traditional taxi cabs. Drivers like the ability to drive as independent contractors for “a side gig,” without all the barriers to entry associated with the taxi industry.

Unfortunately, the lower training and insurance requirements can also put riders in an unfortunate position when something goes wrong, or an accident occurs. According to Lyft’s first-ever safety report—which took into account data reported on the Lyft platform from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019—there were 105 fatalities involving a Lyft car during that time period.  

The report failed to provide data on non-fatal accidents or accidents that resulted in injuries. Nor did it provide information about accidents that occurred when drivers were driving without passengers between rides.  

According to Carsurance.net—a company that helps people find the best car insurance—in 2022, Lyft is available in 644 cities in the U.S., with drivers making on average $34,422 per year. The company’s net worth as of 2022 stands at around $14.93 billion.

At Chaffin Luhana, our Pittsburgh auto accident lawyers offer free consultations and contingency-based representation to people who have been injured in a Lyft car accident and their families. Give our experienced Pittsburgh car accident attorneys a call today to schedule a complimentary consultation at 1-888-480-1123.

Common Causes of Lyft Accidents in Pittsburgh

Common causes of Lyft accidents include the following.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a problem affecting almost all drivers, but Lyft drivers can be particularly susceptible to it. They have to manage the Lyft app as part of their jobs, and must also look up and type in information on their phones to get directions. 

According to research conducted as part of a graduate student fellowship at the University of California, Berkeley, Uber and Lyft drivers use navigation and other apps more than regular drivers while behind the wheel. The researchers gathered information from surveys of drivers and also found that the Uber/Lyft app requires significant attention, and is often used while driving. 

Speeding

As noted above, the average Lyft driver makes only about $35,000 a year. Such a driver is going to be motivated to get more rides to make more money. That means they’re interested in transporting passengers quickly so they can fit in as many rides as possible. 

Fatigue

Lyft drivers are not limited on how much time they can spend behind the wheel. They typically work long hours without a break. They may feel they don’t have the time to stop and rest, which can make them particularly susceptible to fatigue. 

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), driving while drowsy is similar to driving while under the influence of alcohol, and makes drivers three times more likely to be in a crash.

Inexperience

A Lyft driver is required to be licensed, be at least 21 years old, and have one year of experience as a licensed driver. But there is no specific safety testing or instruction to become a Lyft driver. The training required is limited and primarily deals with how to use the app, and tips and tricks for driving for the company.

Unpredictable Driving

Lyft drivers must scan to find their passengers, pull over in various places to pick them up or drop them off, and then rejoin traffic to go find another passenger. They may need to look around to find the right street where their passenger is waiting. This can cause unpredictable driving, including unexpected stops, sudden turns, or slow driving.

Aggressive Driving

A Lyft driver trying to fit in a lot of rides per day may choose to drive aggressively to get where they want to go. They may speed, tailgate, avoid traffic signals, or make abrupt lane changes—all of which can increase the risk of an accident.

Poorly Maintained Vehicle

According to the Lyft website, Lyft vehicles must meet all state requirements, have four doors, a minimum of 5 seatbelts, and a maximum of 8 seatbelts. Otherwise, requirements vary by region. In Philadelphia, the vehicle must be 2007 or newer, and not on the list of ineligible subcompact vehicles. 

Outside of these initial requirements, it’s up to the driver to maintain their vehicle properly. Failing to do so can increase the risk of an accident. Common issues include worn brakes, tire blowouts, missing signal lights, and faulty seatbelts or airbags. 

Driving Under the Influence

Lyft has a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy. But just like any driver, a Lyft driver may choose to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This affects reaction time, thinking, and decision-making, and can increase the risk of an accident.

Unsafe or Illegal Parking

Lyft drivers may park in strange places when picking up or dropping off passengers. This can affect surrounding traffic and may put other drivers or pedestrians in danger.

Pittsburgh Ridesharing Laws Applicable to Lyft

Pittsburgh laws require that:

• Lyft vehicles be from Model Year 2007 or higher and have at least four doors.
• Lyft vehicles be in good condition after passing state inspection.
• Lyft drivers be at least 21 years of age with a valid state driver’s license.
• Lyft drivers maintain current vehicle registration and carry locally accepted insurance.

According to the Public Vehicle-For-Hire Innovation Act:

• Privately owned vehicles used for public transportation must be contacted by app, not street-hailed.
• Background checks and minimal insurance levels are required ($50,000 / $100,000 / $25,000)
• The app must present riders with the license plate number and a photograph of the prospective driver.
• Lyft drivers must pass criminal background, sex offender database, and driver history checks.

Internally, Lyft drivers are held to certain standards, as outlined in the company safety policies. For instance, they are instructed not to pick up passengers under age 18 without an accompanying adult.

Lyft drivers and passengers may not carry weapons – including firearms, stun guns, explosives, knives, slingshots, and tasers — even where it is legal to possess and carry.

Drivers and passengers are not allowed to smoke in Lyft vehicles. Drivers are not allowed to videotape passengers or broadcast images. Sexual assault cases are handled confidentially in the means of the victim’s choosing, whether through arbitration, mediation, or court.

How to Select an Attorney in Pittsburgh for Your Lyft Accident

Experience with Ridesharing Accidents

Many lawyers have experience with car accidents, but ridesharing accidents are a little different. You are more likely to be successful in your Lyft accident lawsuit if you have an attorney who has experience with your type of case. There are unique laws in Pennsylvania that apply to ridesharing accidents, and your attorney needs to be well-versed in these to properly represent you.

Reputation

Check online to see what sort of reputation the lawyer and the law firm have before deciding to work with them. Then feel free to ask them about their other clients, their results, and their referrals. A good Lyft accident attorney will be willing to provide references that speak to their abilities and their reputation.

Professionalism

When you hire a Lyft accident lawyer, you’re not hiring only the attorney—you’re hiring the entire firm or office. Observe the attorney’s staff early on, as they will likely be doing research and investigative work on your behalf. When you go into the office, do you feel comfortable? Do the staff members communicate clearly and politely? Is it a professional atmosphere? 

Communication

There are few things as frustrating as wondering how your case is going and hearing nothing from your attorney’s office. It can be equally difficult to try to talk to your attorney about your case if all you hear is a lot of legal jargon that makes no sense to you. As you’re shopping around, take note of how responsive the firm is, and how they communicate with you. 

Fees

How will your Lyft accident attorney be paid? For most plaintiffs, it’s easiest to work with one that operates on a contingency basis. They will not charge you unless they can achieve a settlement or judgment in your favor. You may be responsible for smaller costs like filing fees and expert witness fees. Ask about the attorney’s fee process so you understand exactly what you’ll be responsible for.

If you have been injured in a ridesharing accident, you should speak with a Pittsburgh Lyft accident lawyer from Chaffin Luhana. We are truly “in your corner” following a ridesharing accident.

Our team only gets paid if you get money in a settlement or jury award. We will fully investigate what happened, identify areas of liability, and fight for the maximum recovery to pay your past and future medical bills, take the time you need off work and afford the best possible rehabilitation.

We have a proven track record of success. Our Pittsburgh personal injury attorneys have recovered over $1 billion and counting for our clients. Contact an experienced car accident attorney in Pittsburgh today.

What Our Clients Have to Say About Chaffin Luhana

Below is a small sampling of the testimonials we have received from our clients: 

Auto Personal Injury Recovery

“It’s a shame that the insurance companies put you through this…I’m glad there are people like you out there because the insurance companies would walk all over victims otherwise.”

– Mark S., Personal Injury Client

Automobile Accident Victim

“[The firm has] done right [by] me. You did everything right. Informing me and keeping me up to date. You did a fine job. I appreciate you very much.”

– Roger J., Personal Injury Client

Automobile Accident Victim

“I didn’t know what to expect since I never needed an attorney before. You took care of everything and were there for me.”

– Vicki B., Personal Injury Client

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