Uber & Lyft Accidents
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become integral to modern transportation in Florida, offering convenience and flexibility for countless users. However, the rise in their usage has led to an increase in accidents involving these services. The personal injury attorneys at Chadwick & Chadwick have been settling and litigating car accident claims in Florida for decades; our lawyers have witnessed firsthand the rise of these services and the evolution of laws to protect accident victims hurt in a crash involving Uber, Lyft or other rideshare services. Whether you were injured as a driver, passenger, bicyclist, or pedestrian, we can help you hold the proper parties accountable and recover the full amount of compensation due for your injuries. Contact our office in Tampa for help with an Uber or Lyft car accident injury claim anywhere in the state of Florida.
Florida Insurance Requirements for Rideshare Drivers
In Florida, rideshare companies, known as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), must adhere to specific insurance requirements to ensure protection for all parties involved in a rideshare scenario. The amount of coverage required differs according to the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the crash. Florida law requires the following levels of insurance coverage:
- Insurance Coverage While App is Off: When the rideshare app is off, the driver’s personal car insurance applies. This includes no-fault personal injury protection and property damage liability, but remember that Florida does not require drivers to carry personal injury liability insurance.
- Insurance Coverage While App is On and Awaiting Ride Requests: When the app is on and the driver is waiting for a ride request, the law requires the driver to be insured with a minimum of $50,000 for death and bodily injury per person, $100,000 per incident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Insurance Coverage While on a Ride: During trips, from the time a ride is accepted to its completion, the TNC must provide at least $1 million in coverage for death, bodily injury, and property damage.
For Individuals Injured in a Crash with a Rideshare Driver
If you are involved in an accident with a rideshare driver, whether as a pedestrian, a cyclist, or another driver, you have the right to seek compensation. The insurance coverage in effect depends on the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident. Our team at Chadwick & Chadwick will help navigate these complexities and advocate for your rightful compensation. Uber & Lyft’s enhanced insurance means sufficient coverage should be available to cover your damages, but you’ll need skilled legal assistance to negotiate a full settlement or build a strong case should litigation be necessary.
For Passengers Injured While Riding in an Uber or Lyft
As a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, if you’re injured in an accident, you’re covered under the TNC’s $1 million insurance policy. It’s important to understand that this coverage is designed to protect you, irrespective of who is at fault. Questions of liability and damages can still stand as roadblocks in the way of getting the compensation you need and deserve. One thing is certain; the crash was not your fault, and justice demands you be fairly compensated. Our experienced Florida car accident attorneys can help.
Recourse for an Uber or Lyft Driver Injured in a Crash
If you are an Uber or Lyft driver involved in an accident while working, you have specific rights and insurance protections. The coverage depends on your status at the time of the accident (app off, waiting for a request, or on a trip). Depending on who was at fault and the nature of your injuries, you might have a no-fault insurance claim or a tort action against the other driver. Uber & Lyft both provide their drivers with supplemental collision and comprehensive coverage as well.
Contact Chadwick & Chadwick for Help With an Uber or Lyft Accident in Florida
At Chadwick & Chadwick, we understand the particular nuances of car crash injury claims when an Uber or Lyft vehicle is involved. You can count on us to deliver exceptional legal representation while supporting you with a high level of personal service and attention to ensure your needs are being met during this difficult time in your life. If you or a family member has been hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident in Florida, call our Tampa office at 813-264-1500 for a free consultation. There is never any fee until we are successful in your case.
