Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have transformed how we travel. However, accidents involving these services often confuse passengers about their rights and make them unsure of what steps to take next.
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, understanding how Florida law applies to your situation can make a big difference. Knowing your options can help you protect yourself, seek fair compensation, and move forward after an unexpected collision as a rideshare passenger.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
If you are injured in an Uber ride or Lyft vehicle, taking immediate steps can help protect your rights:
- Call 911 – Report the accident to the police and request medical assistance, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Document the Scene – If possible, take clear photos of the vehicles, your visible injuries, the accident location, and any surrounding road conditions.
- Collect Information – Get names, phone numbers, insurance details, and driver’s license information from all drivers, passengers, and any witnesses.
- Report the Incident – Notify the rideshare company through the app immediately after the accident.
- Seek Medical Care – Visit a doctor right away. Some serious injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not show immediate symptoms.
- Contact an Attorney – A lawyer can guide you through the insurance claims process and help protect your right to compensation.
Florida law has strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, including those involving rideshare accidents. You generally have two years from the accident date to file a claim, and may not be able to recover compensation if you file too late.
Common Injuries in Rideshare Passenger Accidents
Rideshare passengers can suffer a wide range of injuries, such as:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
Many passengers also experience emotional trauma after a rideshare crash, including anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Whether your injuries happened during an Uber ride or a Lyft collision, getting a complete medical evaluation is essential.
Who’s Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Liability in a rideshare accident depends on several factors. The rideshare driver, another driver, or the rideshare company itself may be responsible. Florida is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your insurance should cover your initial losses up to your policy limits. However, serious injuries often allow passengers to go beyond the no-fault rules and file additional claims against liable parties.
If the rideshare driver caused the crash, their insurance and the company’s policy could come into play. Under Florida law, rideshare companies are required to carry third-party liability insurance, offering at least $1 million in coverage while a passenger is in the vehicle.
If a third-party driver caused the accident, that driver’s insurance could cover your damages. You might also face a rideshare driver insurance dispute if policies overlap or deny responsibility. Sometimes, you can file a claim against the rideshare company if negligence can be proven.
Navigating these issues can feel overwhelming. Speaking with an attorney experienced in rideshare accidents can help clarify your options.
How Rideshare Insurance Coverage Works
Understanding rideshare insurance coverage is key to knowing who will pay after a crash. When the rideshare app is off, the driver’s insurance applies. When the app is on but the driver has no passengers, limited rideshare coverage applies: typically $50,000 per person for injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Once a passenger is in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage. This covers injuries and losses caused by the rideshare driver or another party.
However, insurance companies often dispute responsibility. If you face a rideshare driver accident claim or a third-party driver rideshare crash, legal guidance can help sort through complex coverage issues.
Can You File a Claim Against Uber or Lyft Directly?
You may wonder whether you can sue Uber or Lyft directly after a rideshare accident. The answer depends on the specific facts of your case.
Generally, rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This classification limits their direct legal responsibility for accidents involving their drivers. However, suppose Uber or Lyft acted negligently, such as by failing to properly vet, supervise, or remove unsafe drivers. In that case, you might have grounds to file a claim against the company itself.
Building a successful case requires strong evidence and clearly showing negligence. An experienced attorney can review your situation and guide you forward.
Compensation Available in Rideshare Injury Claims
If you suffered injuries as a rideshare passenger, you may seek several types of compensation:
- Medical Expenses – You can recover costs for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical needs related to the accident.
- Lost Wages – If your injuries forced you to miss work, you may claim lost income. Long-term impacts on your earning ability can also factor into your claim.
- Pain and Suffering – Physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life often qualify for additional damages.
- Property Damage – If personal property like a phone, laptop, or other valuables was damaged during the accident, you may recover their value.
Whether you need help with an Uber accident claim or a Lyft crash lawsuit, knowing the types of compensation available strengthens your case. Consulting a lawyer can help you seek a fair recovery without unnecessary delays.
When to Call a Lawyer for Help
You don’t have to figure everything out if you were injured as a rideshare passenger. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims entirely. An attorney experienced in handling rideshare accidents can help you:
- Gather important evidence
- Determine who is legally responsible
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- File a lawsuit if needed
Having legal support can make the process smoother and improve your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
Contact The Bruner Law Firm Today to Discuss Your Rideshare Accident Claim
At The Bruner Law Firm, our experienced rideshare accident attorneys help rideshare passengers protect their rights after serious accidents. We fight for fair compensation and hold negligent parties accountable. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a rideshare crash, we are ready to help. Call (850) 243-2222 or contact us for a free consultation.
