What to Do If a Rideshare Vehicle Causes Damage to Your Property
Accidents are an unfortunate reality of daily life, especially in busy neighborhoods where rideshare services like Lyft have become common. While these services provide convenient transportation, they can also pose risks, including potential damage to your home or property.
If a rideshare vehicle, like a Lyft, causes damage to your home, driveway, or yard, knowing the right steps can help you protect your property and finances. Let’s discuss some essential information to guide you through this challenging situation.
Assess the Damage and Ensure Safety
Before jumping into action, it’s important to fully inspect the extent of the damage. Start by walking around the impacted areas of your property:
- Exterior Home Damage: In assessing exterior home damage, search for dings or scrapes on walls, garage doors, or siding. These issues affect curb appeal and structural integrity, so quick repairs are essential. Using siding estimating software can help homeowners and contractors alike efficiently estimate repair costs and plan the restoration process.
- Fencing and Gates: If your fences or gates are hit, they could compromise your home’s security and privacy. Look for any loose posts, broken slats, or gates that no longer close properly.
- Garden and Landscaping: A collision with your carefully maintained lawn, shrubs, or flower beds can cause both cosmetic and functional damage. Crushed plants or damaged sprinkler systems might need attention to prevent further issues.
Gather Information
If the damage is significant, it’s vital to gather information in an organized way that can be used later when dealing with insurance or Lyft:
- Photographs: Take pictures of every damaged area, focusing on details like cracked siding, broken bricks, or dented garage doors. If the impact has affected outdoor decor like planters or lighting fixtures, capture those as well.
- Driver Information: Record the Lyft driver’s name, contact details, vehicle license plate, and the make and model of the car. This information is crucial for reporting the incident.
- Witness Statements: Talk to neighbors who may have seen the accident or heard it occur. Their accounts can provide additional support for your claims.
Report the Incident
Once you've secured your property and gathered information, the next step is to report the accident. Contact your local authorities to file an official report, especially if the damage is extensive. This documentation can be valuable when dealing with insurance companies.
Also, report the incident to Lyft through their app or website. The company needs to know about any property damage incidents involving their drivers.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
After notifying Lyft and filing a report with the authorities, reach out to your home insurance provider. Even if the damage seems minor, it's important to inform them so they can guide you through the claims process. Depending on your policy, you may be eligible for compensation to cover the cost of repairs.
Negotiate a Settlement
When it comes to receiving compensation, you may need to negotiate a settlement with Lyft. Rideshare companies typically maintain insurance policies to cover incidents involving their drivers. Document all expenses related to repairing the damage, including quotes from contractors, and be prepared to discuss these costs with Lyft or the driver’s insurance provider.
Keep Detailed Records
Throughout the process, keep a record of all interactions, quotes, and repairs. Store photos, contractor estimates, and receipts in a folder dedicated to this incident. Having thorough documentation will streamline any negotiations or claims you need to make.
Additional Home Safety Tips After an Accident
After resolving the immediate situation, it might be a good time to reevaluate your home’s safety:
- Reinforce Outdoor Structures: Consider reinforcing your fence, gates, or outdoor lighting to prevent future damage from vehicles. Stronger materials or improved designs can add durability and enhance the aesthetic of your home.
- Driveway Maintenance: If the accident involved damage to your driveway or walkways, take this opportunity to reseal or repair any pre-existing cracks. This can improve the longevity of your property and reduce future risks from vehicular incidents.
- Improved Landscaping Barriers: Installing low barriers, planters, or decorative rocks along your property’s edge can protect your lawn or garden from any future accidents while adding a touch of charm to your home’s exterior.
