When it comes to Lyft settlement agreements, confidentiality clauses are often included to protect both the company and the parties involved. For injury victims, it’s important to understand that these clauses aim to keep sensitive information about the settlement terms, the dispute details, and any financial implications private.
While signing a confidentiality clause can help maintain the integrity of the settlement process and safeguard Lyft’s reputation, it may also limit your ability to discuss your case. As an injury victim, you should carefully consider whether you want to agree to such terms, as they could impact your future discussions or claims. It’s crucial to consult with legal professionals to fully understand the implications of signing a confidentiality clause in your Lyft settlement.
Within the context of a rideshare (e.g., Lyft, Uber, Alto) settlement agreements, there are typically a handful of clauses in the agreement that work in tandem to keep signatories from sharing information about the settlement, or defaming the company or the agreement publicly after the fact. Here are some of those common clauses that one might expect to encounter in negotiations and draft Lyft settlement agreements.
Faced with a confidentiality clause, you may the thinking, what about free speech? The first amendment to the United States Constitution does guarantee freedom of expression by prohibiting Congress from restricting the press or the rights of individuals to speak freely. However, it does not guarantee a right to speech without consequences.
As frustrating as they may be, confidentiality clauses are a legal contractual feature when agreed upon by the signatories of the document. It can certainly be frustrating to go through a lengthy negotiation process with a rideshare company and their insurer, only to be informed that you are not allowed to “vent” about the ordeal.
The best remedy for this frustration is reaching a Lyft settlement agreement with terms and a substantial payout that you are happy with. For the best chances of this ideal outcome, contact a personal injury firm that is experienced in commercial vehicle accident cases, like Thompson Law.
Unfortunately, the fact is that if a confidentiality clause is a component of the settlement contract, you need to agree to those terms if you wish to finalize that contract and receive your payment. You are not obligated to sign any contract with which you are dissatisfied, but without an agreed settlement contract, you can’t get paid.
However, often Lyft does not request that an injury victim sign a confidentiality clause until after they have already signed a bodily injury release. Given Lyft is offering monetary consideration for signing the injury release, they cannot force you to sign a confidentiality agreement after the fact. Unless the injury release was contingent upon you signing a confidentiality agreement, they must offer you additional consideration for signing it, and cannot hold up your settlement.
If your case goes to trial, the dynamics of signing confidentiality and non-disparagement clauses can shift significantly. Typically, these clauses are more commonly associated with out-of-court Lyft settlements rather than trial verdicts. In the event of a trial, the public nature of court proceedings means that much of the information regarding the case, including testimony and evidence, becomes accessible to the public. However, if a settlement is reached during the trial process, it is likely that Lyft will still request a confidentiality clause to protect sensitive information.
Understand that while you may not be obligated to sign these clauses if the case proceeds to a trial and is publicly litigated, if you decide to settle before the trial concludes, you may still encounter requests to agree to these terms. Before agreeing to any language around confidentiality or non-disparagement, consult with our legal professionals to fully comprehend the ramifications of Lyft settlement agreements and ensure you’re making the most informed choice regarding your rights and any potential future implications.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you have been injured in a Lyft or another commercial vehicle accident, you must initiate your claim within this two-year timeframe to preserve your right to seek compensation. Failing to file a claim within this period could result in losing your ability to recover damages for your injuries.
Act promptly and consult with our experienced personal injury attorneys who can guide you through the legal process and help ensure your claim is filed in a timely manner. Taking these steps as soon as possible can improve your chances of a successful outcome and aid in your recovery journey.
If you have been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle such as a Lyft or Uber, or perhaps a delivery truck, or even an 18-wheeler, it is in your best interest to speak to an attorney. You should consider the legal assistance you really need when you are going to battle with the insurance companies and legal representatives of large commercial vehicle companies.
If you have questions about your situation and your options, Thompson Law is here to help. Reach out anytime 24/7 for a no-risk FREE CONSULTATION with one of our legal experts by calling (214) 444-4444 or toll free at 1-800-LION-LAW (1-800-546-6529). If you’ve been hesitating to reach out, don’t delay any further. Call Thompson Law right away for assistance with your injury and claim.
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