What to Do If You Are Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Florida
Introduction
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular transportation option, but accidents involving these vehicles can lead to complex legal issues. Unlike standard car crashes, rideshare accidents involve multiple insurance policies, company liability questions, and different coverage rules depending on when the accident occurs.
This guide explains what to do after a rideshare accident in Florida, who may be responsible for your injuries, and how to seek compensation.
Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Liability in a rideshare accident depends on who caused the crash and the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the accident. Possible liable parties include:
- The rideshare driver if they caused the accident due to speeding, distracted driving, or reckless behavior.
- Another at-fault driver who collided with the rideshare vehicle.
- Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy, if the rideshare driver was actively transporting a passenger.
- The rideshare company, if the accident resulted from their negligence, such as failing to properly vet a driver.
Rideshare Insurance Coverage in Florida
Florida law requires rideshare companies to carry insurance coverage, but the amount available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident.
If the Rideshare App Was Off
- The driver’s personal auto insurance policy applies.
- Uber and Lyft’s company insurance does not cover the accident.
If the Rideshare App Was On but No Passenger Was in the Car
- Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury.
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
- $25,000 for property damage.
- The driver’s personal auto policy may also apply.
If the Driver Was Transporting a Passenger or on the Way to Pick One Up
- Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage.
- This coverage applies to injured passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians.
- Uninsured motorist coverage may also be available if the at-fault driver did not have insurance.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Florida
Taking the right steps after a rideshare accident can help protect your health and strengthen your personal injury claim.
Call 911 and Report the Accident
- Request a police report, which will document key details about the crash.
- Ask officers to note that the accident involved a rideshare vehicle.
Seek Medical Attention
- Even if injuries seem minor, see a doctor immediately to document your condition.
- Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law requires accident victims to seek medical care within 14 days to qualify for benefits.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
- Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals.
- Get contact information for the rideshare driver, other drivers, and witnesses.
- Screenshot the rideshare app showing the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft
- Both companies have in-app accident reporting options.
- Reporting the crash ensures that the rideshare company’s insurance coverage is activated.
Contact a Rideshare Accident Attorney
- Rideshare accident claims can be complicated due to insurance disputes and liability questions.
- An attorney can determine the best course of action and negotiate with multiple insurance companies.
How to Seek Compensation for a Rideshare Accident
Injured victims may recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including surgery, therapy, and ongoing care.
- Lost wages due to time off work.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage to their vehicle.
Depending on who was at fault and the driver’s status on the rideshare app, victims may file claims through:
- Their own PIP insurance, which covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses.
- The at-fault driver’s personal auto insurance.
- Uber or Lyft’s commercial insurance policy, if applicable.
Challenges in Rideshare Accident Cases
Rideshare companies and insurers often try to deny liability or minimize payouts. Common challenges include:
- Disputes over the driver’s status, such as whether they were logged into the app or transporting a passenger.
- Insurance companies blaming each other to avoid responsibility.
- Low settlement offers that do not cover full medical expenses and losses.
Because of these challenges, having a personal injury attorney handle the case can improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
How a Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Help
A personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and determine which insurance policies apply.
- Collect evidence such as dashcam footage, accident reports, and rideshare records.
- Negotiate with Uber or Lyft’s insurance providers for maximum compensation.
- File a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to pay a fair settlement.
At Bonderud Law, we have experience handling rideshare accident claims and ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve. If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, contact us today for a free consultation.
Conclusion
Rideshare accidents in Florida involve unique legal and insurance issues that make them more complicated than standard car crashes. Understanding who is liable, what insurance coverage applies, and how to file a claim is essential for securing compensation.
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, taking the right legal steps and working with an experienced attorney can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
