I was recently involved in an accident with a Lyft driver who was operating a Hertz rental car at the time. The incident occurred on 11/17/2024 when the driver failed to check their blind spot and merged into my lane on the freeway. As a result, my front bumper is cracked, I had to replace a tire, and my windshield wiper fluid tank is damaged.
Although I don’t have direct evidence of the accident, I promptly filed a police report and documented the situation right after it happened. It’s quite clear from the damage and the accident’s location that her vehicle collided with mine.
This situation has become complicated because the driver was in a rental car. She provided me with her insurance information and mentioned that she purchased “extra insurance” for incidents. However, I’ve learned that her Hertz insurance does not cover this incident because she was driving for Lyft.
Lyft has informed me that if they decide to cover any of my property damage, they will only consider reasonable costs for a rental car comparable to mine and/or reasonable storage expenses. Does this mean they won’t cover the actual damages to my vehicle?
Unfortunately, I do not have collision coverage—just the minimum required by California law. I’m planning to switch insurance, but full coverage would be quite costly (over $400/month).
I’m feeling lost about what to do next and would greatly appreciate any advice on how to proceed. Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds very stressful. Here are some steps you can take to help resolve the issue:
Review the Police Report: Since you filed a police report, obtain a copy and review it for details that could support your case. This document can be crucial in proving fault.
Contact Lyft’s Insurance: It seems like Lyft is offering limited coverage. Request clarification on what “reasonable rental expenses” and “reasonable storage expenses” mean. Specifically, ask them if they will cover repairs to your vehicle.
Contact Hertz for More Information: Since the driver was in a rental car, Hertz may have additional liability policies. It’s worth contacting them to explain your situation and see if there’s any coverage that could apply.
Gather Evidence: Compile all evidence related to the accident, including photos of your car, damage reports, the police report, and any voice recordings you made. Collect any witness statements if possible.
Explore Small Claims Court: If you’re unable to resolve the issue with insurance, you might consider filing a claim in small claims court for the damages incurred. Research your state’s small claims limits and procedures.
Consult with an Attorney: It may be beneficial to speak with a personal injury attorney who has experience in car accident cases. They can provide specific legal guidance and may be able to negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf.
Check for Legal Aid: If hiring an attorney is beyond your budget, look for legal aid services in your area that offer advice or representation at a reduced cost.
Consider AME (Alternative Medical Expenses): If you have any medical issues arising from the accident, keep track of all related expenses as they might also factor into any claims.
It’s important to stay organized, document all your communication with the insurance companies, and respond promptly to any requests for additional information. While this process can be frustrating, following these steps will give you the best chance at a fair resolution. Good luck!