If you were hurt in a crash involving a Lyft driver in Illinois, or while riding a Divvy bike or scooter that Lyft operates in Chicago, a Lyft accident lawyer at Mixan Mahony, LLC can identify who is responsible and which coverage applies. Partners Colleen Mixan Mikaitis and Mackenzie J. Mahony personally oversee every case, and there is no fee unless there is a recovery.
Key Points About Lyft Accident Claims
- Lyft rides are covered by the Illinois Transportation Network Providers Act (625 ILCS 57).
- During an accepted ride, at least $1,000,000 in primary liability coverage applies.
- Lyft operates the Divvy bike and scooter program in Chicago, which raises separate equipment and contract issues.
- Lyft drivers are generally independent contractors.
- Most Illinois claims must be filed within 2 years.
How Lyft Ride Coverage Works
Coverage depends on the driver’s status in the app: personal insurance only when the app is off, lower contingent limits while waiting for a request, and at least $1,000,000 in primary liability coverage once a ride is accepted (625 ILCS 57/10). A Lyft accident lawyer obtains the trip records to confirm the status at the moment of the crash. For the general rules that apply to all rideshare companies, see our Illinois rideshare accident lawyer page.
Divvy Bike and Scooter Injuries
Injuries on shared bikes and scooters raise different questions than car crashes. A rider may have a claim against a driver who caused the crash, and in some cases claims involving defective brakes, wheels, or equipment. The rental terms a rider accepts in the app can also affect the claim, so they should be reviewed early.
Common Lyft Crashes in Illinois
- Drivers distracted by the app between rides
- Pickups and drop-offs in traffic lanes and bike lanes
- Passengers injured opening doors into traffic
- Late-night and weekend crashes
- Cyclists and scooter riders struck by turning vehicles
Evidence in a Lyft Accident Case
- Trip and app-status records
- Divvy ride history and equipment maintenance records
- Dashcam, traffic camera, and business video
- Police reports and witness statements
- Medical records documenting the injuries
Compensation and Fault
Illinois uses modified comparative fault: your recovery is reduced by your share of fault, and you cannot recover if you are more than 50 percent at fault (735 ILCS 5/2-1116). Injured people may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, and loss of a normal life. If a vehicle struck you while walking, see our Illinois pedestrian accident lawyer page. When a crash is fatal, see our Illinois wrongful death lawyer page.
What to Do After a Lyft Crash
- Call 911 and get medical care.
- Screenshot the ride or rental in the app.
- Photograph the vehicle or bike and the scene.
- Get witness names.
- Do not give a recorded statement before talking with a lawyer.
Lyft in Chicago and Across Illinois
Lyft serves Chicago and many Illinois communities, and in Chicago it also operates the Divvy bike and scooter system. That means a Lyft accident lawyer may be dealing with a car crash during a ride, a crash involving a Lyft driver and a cyclist, or an injury on a Divvy bike or scooter. Each situation involves different insurance and different evidence.
Injuries in Lyft Crashes
Lyft passengers and drivers can suffer neck and back injuries, fractures, and head injuries. Bike and scooter riders often suffer wrist, arm, and facial fractures and brain injuries, especially when struck by a vehicle. We document every injury and its effect on your work and daily life.
How an Illinois Injury Claim Moves Forward
- Free consultation. We listen, review what you have, and explain your options.
- Investigation. We send preservation letters, gather records and video, and identify every responsible party and insurance policy.
- Medical treatment. You focus on recovery while we track your care, bills, and lost income.
- Demand and negotiation. Once the extent of the injuries is clear, we present the claim to the insurers.
- Lawsuit, if needed. If the insurers will not offer fair value, we file suit and prepare the case for trial.
Lyft Accident FAQs
Does Lyft’s insurance cover passengers?
Yes. Once a ride is accepted, Illinois law requires at least $1,000,000 in primary liability coverage.
Can I bring a claim for a Divvy bike or scooter injury?
Possibly. Depending on the facts, you may have a claim against a negligent driver or a claim related to defective equipment.
How long do I have to file?
Most Illinois personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years (735 ILCS 5/13-202).
What does it cost to hire a Lyft accident lawyer?
The consultation is free, and there is no fee unless there is a recovery.
Talk With a Lyft Accident Lawyer Today
Call (312) 262-3971 any time, 24 hours a day, or contact us online for a free consultation with a Lyft accident lawyer. Mixan Mahony, LLC is located at River Point, 444 W. Lake St., Suite 1707, Chicago, IL 60606, and represents injured people throughout Illinois. Get directions to our Chicago office. No fee unless there is a recovery.