What Should I Do After Being Hit by a Lyft Driver in a Hertz Rental Car?
I was involved in an accident on November 17, 2024, where a Lyft driver hit my car after failing to check their blind spot while merging on the freeway. My vehicle sustained significant damage, including a cracked front bumper, a damaged tire, and a cracked windshield wiper fluid tank.
I filed a police report immediately after the incident, and I recorded the situation, so I believe the evidence clearly shows that the Lyft driver is at fault. However, this situation is complicated by the fact that the driver was behind the wheel of a Hertz rental car.
The driver provided me with their insurance details and mentioned they purchased “extra insurance” to cover incidents. However, I later discovered that their Hertz insurance doesn’t cover this situation since they were driving for Lyft.
Lyft’s response is concerning; they stated, “If we agree to pay for some or all of your property damage on behalf of our policyholder, we will only consider reasonable rental expenses for a vehicle comparable to the damaged vehicle and/or reasonable storage expenses for reimbursement.”
Does this mean they won’t cover my actual damages?
Unfortunately, I don’t have collision coverage—only the minimum required by California state law. I want to switch to a better policy, but full coverage is currently beyond my budget (over $400/month).
I would really appreciate any advice on how to proceed. Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; it sounds really frustrating. Here are some steps you can take to address the accident and seek compensation for your damages:
Review Insurance Policies: Since the Lyft driver was using a Hertz rental car, it’s important to clarify the insurance coverage provided by both Hertz and Lyft. You should contact both companies to ask for detailed explanations of their policies regarding accidents while driving for ridesharing.
Document Everything: Make sure you have all documentation related to the incident, including the police report, any photos of the damage, and notes from your conversations with Lyft and Hertz. This evidence will be crucial in making your case.
Communicate with Lyft and Hertz: Reach out to Lyft’s customer service and ask for clarification regarding their coverage. Make sure to explain that the driver was using a rental car for ridesharing and that you believe their insurance should cover your damages. It can help to follow up in writing to keep a record of your communication.
Consider Filing a Claim Against the Driver: If Lyft refuses to cover your damages, you may want to consider filing a claim directly with the driver’s insurance company. Provide them with all the relevant information, including the police report.
Contact Your Own Insurance: Even though you only have minimum coverage, it’s worth contacting your insurance provider to discuss your options. They may be able to advise you on how to proceed or even assist you in filing a claim with the other party’s insurance.
Consult with a Legal Professional: Given the complexity of the situation, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney who specializes in auto accidents. They can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of seeking compensation.
Follow Up Regularly: Keep following up with Lyft, Hertz, and any other involved parties. Persistence can help keep your claim moving forward.
Explore Alternative Insurance Options: As you mentioned, switching to a full coverage policy might be a future consideration. In the meantime, you can explore other providers to see if you can find a more affordable rate.
It’s important to act quickly, especially since some claims can have time limits. I hope you get the resolution you deserve!