Lyft recently released its second safety report, revealing a troubling increase in motor vehicle fatalities and fatal physical assaults between 2020 and 2022. The report highlights that 111 motor vehicle deaths occurred during this period, marking a 14% increase in the rate of fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled and a 31% increase in overall fatal incidents compared to Lyft’s previous report from 2017 to 2019. Additionally, 23 fatal physical assaults were recorded, reflecting an alarming 185% increase in the incident frequency rate.
While the report does indicate a 21% decline in serious sexual assaults, the overall rise in fatal incidents raises major safety concerns for both passengers and drivers. With 1.41 billion Lyft rides taking place during the reporting period—337 million fewer rides than the previous three-year period—the increase in fatal accidents and assaults demonstrates that rideshare services remain dangerous despite a lower volume of trips.
Lyft has acknowledged that these increases mirror broader national trends, citing factors such as speeding, driving under the influence, and failure to wear seat belts as major contributors. The company also noted an uptick in carjackings, particularly in late 2020, and acknowledged that mask policies during the pandemic created additional conflict. While these factors affected road safety nationwide, they do not absolve rideshare companies of their responsibility to protect passengers and drivers from preventable harm.
How Passengers and Drivers Are Harmed in Lyft Rides
The increase in fatal motor vehicle crashes and physical assaults has placed both riders and drivers at significant risk. Lyft, like other rideshare companies, operates under a business model that limits its liability for injuries or wrongful deaths that occur during rides. Instead of classifying drivers as employees, Lyft treats them as independent contractors, allowing the company to shift responsibility away from itself when serious accidents or crimes occur.
Passengers who board a Lyft vehicle expect a safe ride to their destination. However, reckless driving, distracted driving, and driver impairment remain serious concerns. Some drivers speed or drive aggressively to complete more trips and maximize their earnings. Others may drive while fatigued after working long hours, increasing the risk of serious crashes. Lyft’s own report acknowledges that speeding and impaired driving contributed to the rise in fatalities, but victims often find it difficult to hold the company accountable after an accident.
Physical assaults and violent crimes within Lyft vehicles have also become more common. The 185% rise in fatal assaults suggests that passengers and drivers alike face greater threats of violence than ever before. Some attacks occur during attempted carjackings, while others involve conflicts between passengers and drivers that escalate into deadly encounters. Lyft’s lack of thorough background checks and inconsistent safety measures have contributed to this dangerous reality.
Filing a Lawsuit After a Lyft Accident or Assault
Victims of Lyft-related car accidents or violent assaults may be entitled to financial compensation for their injuries and losses. While Lyft often denies responsibility for passenger and driver injuries, victims may still have legal options to recover damages. Filing a lawsuit can help cover the cost of medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other financial burdens caused by the incident.
Lawsuits against Lyft typically fall into one of the following categories:
- Car Accident Claims: If a passenger or another driver is injured in a Lyft-related crash, they may be able to sue the at-fault driver, Lyft’s insurance provider, or even Lyft itself if the company’s negligence played a role in the accident.
- Assault or Physical Attack Lawsuits: If a passenger or driver is assaulted during a Lyft ride, the victim may have grounds to sue the attacker and potentially Lyft if negligence in hiring, background checks, or failure to act on prior complaints contributed to the incident.
- Wrongful Death Claims: Families of individuals who died in Lyft-related accidents or violent assaults may file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.
These lawsuits often involve complex legal arguments, as Lyft frequently attempts to shield itself from liability by pointing to its status as a technology platform rather than a transportation provider. However, with the right legal representation, victims can hold the company accountable and seek justice for the harm they have suffered.
Why Victims Need an Attorney for a Lyft Lawsuit
Taking legal action against Lyft, its drivers, or other responsible parties can be difficult without the help of an experienced attorney. Rideshare companies invest heavily in legal defense teams to fight lawsuits and minimize their financial responsibility. Without proper legal representation, victims may struggle to recover full and fair compensation for their injuries.
Our legal professionals can:
- Investigate the accident or assault, gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
- Identify all liable parties, including the Lyft driver, another negligent motorist, or even Lyft itself.
- Negotiate with insurance companies that often attempt to offer lowball settlements to victims.
- Take the case to court if necessary to ensure the victim receives the compensation they deserve.
Victims of Lyft-related accidents or violent incidents should act quickly, as time limits apply to personal injury and wrongful death claims. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible ensures that evidence is preserved and the case is built on a strong foundation.
Compensation Available in a Lyft Injury or Wrongful Death Case
Victims who pursue a legal claim against Lyft, a driver, or another responsible party may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications).
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity due to injuries.
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and trauma.
- Property damage (damage to personal belongings or vehicles).
- Punitive damages, in cases of gross negligence or misconduct.
- Wrongful death damages, including funeral costs and loss of financial support for surviving family members.
Holding Lyft and negligent drivers accountable is essential to ensuring that victims receive justice and that rideshare companies take greater responsibility for safety.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW
If you or a loved one were injured in a Lyft accident or attacked during a Lyft ride, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Parker Waichman LLP is actively investigating Lyft injury and wrongful death cases and is committed to fighting for victims nationwide.
Contact us by calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free case review and to learn more about your legal options. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide product injury law firm is ready to assist you.
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