Charleston Lyft Driver Ran a Red Light and Hit My Car: Can I Sue?

Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when a rideshare driver is involved. If a Charleston Lyft driver ran a red light and crashed into your vehicle, you may be unsure about the next legal steps.

If you have questions about your scenario, reach out to our experience Charleston car accident attorneys. At Roden Law, we can discuss your situation during a free, no-obligation consultation. You do not pay any upfront fees or costs. We only get paid if we win your case.

Call to request a FREE case review today. 1-844-RESULTS

Liability in a Lyft Red Light Car Accident

Rideshare services like Lyft have become increasingly popular in Charleston. While convenient, they also introduce new complexities to traffic accident cases.

If a Lyft driver runs a red light, they are primarily liable for the accident. This means they are responsible for any damages or injuries resulting from their actions.

In some cases, other parties may share responsibility with the Lyft driver. These parties may include:

• Other Involved Drivers: If another driver was speeding or driving recklessly, they could also be held partially responsible.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: If a mechanical failure or defect leads to issues like brake failure, the vehicle manufacturer might be liable.
• Lyft: If it is proven that Lyft was negligent in hiring or supervising the driver or if there were issues with the app, they could be held liable for the accident.

Can I Sue After Lyft Driver Hit My Car in Charleston?

Yes, you can sue after a Lyft accident in Charleston. South Carolina law allows accident victims to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. However, the process may be slightly different when rideshare companies are involved.

Also, every case is different, which means that the legal process can have various outcomes. Typically, the legal process may involve these steps:

• Determining Liability: The insurance company or a jury, if you take your case to court, will establish who is at fault for the accident.
• Insurance Claims: You can file a claim with Lyft required insurance coverage once liability is determined to pay for damages and injuries.
• Legal Action: If Lyft’s insurance claim does not cover all your damages, you can file a lawsuit against the driver or Lyft.

How Can I Prove Fault in a Charleston Red Light Lyft Accident?

After a Lyft driver hits, your car, you need to prove the Lyft driver was at fault. Evidence that can help establish fault includes:

• Police reports
• Traffic camera footage
• Dashcam Footage
• Eyewitness statements
• Expert Testimony
• Cell phone records
• Vehicle Damage Report

What Challenges Might I Face in a Red Light Lyft Accident Case?

Rideshare accident cases present unique challenges. For example. If there are multiple parties involved in a car accident, various perspective can make it difficult to determine who is a fault. The Lyft driver could deny running the red light or there may be conflicting witness statements.

Navigating the insurance claims with Lyft can be a tricky process. Lyft’s insurance coverage varies depending on whether a driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request or carrying a passenger.

You will have to prove the Lyft driver was logged into the app during the time of the accident to get a claim from Lyft. If not, you may have to file a claim with the driver’s personal auto insurance.

Other legal challenges you may face could include:

• Navigating multiple insurance policies especially if the Lyft driver does not have enough personal insurance to cover your damages and you cannot receive a claim from Lyft insurance.
• Lyft may have a strong legal representation, making it challenging to negotiate a fair settlement or win a lawsuit.

What Are Some Common Reasons a Lyft Driver May Run a Red Light?

A Lyft driver could run a red light and hit your car for several reasons. Common causes of this behavior are likely to happen if a Lyft driver experiences any of the following.

• Distracted Driving: If drivers are using their phone for navigation or communicating with passengers, they could miss traffic signals.
• Fatigue: Some drivers may work long hours causing them to become exhausted and have a slower reaction time.
• Speeding: The more rides that a Lyft driver takes, the more money they make. Some drivers may speed to complete more rides, which could tempt them to run a red light
• Impatience or Running Late: If a driver is running late, they might become drive more aggressively so they can hurry to pick up or drop off passengers.
• Impairment: Some drivers may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs which could significantly impact their ability to obey traffic signals.
• Unfamiliarity With the Area: Drivers who are not familiar with a traffic pattern in a location could make the sudden decision to run a red light.

Call Roden Law After a Lyft Red Light Lyft Accident

Being involved in a Lyft accident can be a traumatic experience, but it is important to remember that you have legal rights and options for seeking compensation. Do not let the complexities of rideshare accident deter you from pursuing justice.

If you have been injured in a Lyft accident in Charleston, we encourage you to contact our trusted attorneys at Roden Law. We have a history of securing favorable outcomes for our clients following devastating car accident cases. If we represent you, there are no upfront costs or fees to pay, and we are committed to recovering the maximum possible compensation on your behalf.

Call today for a free consultation: 1-844-RESULTS