Over the last few years, Uber and Lyft’s ridesharing services have begun to replace taxi cabs and other ridesharing services, and understandably so; Uber and Lyft are both reliable, economical, and, for the most part, safe ridesharing services. However, the unfortunate reality is that Uber/Lyft accidents still happen, and if you have been injured in one, you must continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable Florida personal injury attorney to learn more about these accidents and how our firm can help you through every step of the claims process ahead.
How Do Uber and Lyft Accidents Happen?
Uber and Lyft accidents can occur for many different reasons. Not unlike most other auto accidents, they are often the result of negligence. Drivers who operate rideshare vehicles may face unique pressure, including long hours, frequent navigation changes, and the expectation to respond to ride requests while driving.
Because ride-share drivers rely on mobile apps and GPS systems when transporting their passengers, there are factors that increase the likelihood of a collision.
Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents in Florida
- Speeding in an attempt to complete rides quickly
- Driving under the influence or while impaired
- Using GPS or navigation systems
- Unsafe lane changes or aggressive driving
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Driver fatigue due to long hours or driving for extended periods
- Texting or using the application while driving
Not only do these behaviors increase the risk of a collision, but they also put everyone, including other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists, at risk.
How Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage Works in Florida
Uber and Lyft maintain liability coverage as a way to protect passengers and other motorists in the event of a collision with a rideshare vehicle.
However, the coverage that is available depends on the stage of the ride when the accident occurs. These systems are generally divided into “periods” that determine when an insurance policy applies. Understanding the cover period is critical when determining how to pursue compensation for damages following an accident involving a rideshare vehicle.
Because rideshare drivers use their personal vehicles while working through a digital platform, determining which insurance policy applies will depend on the driver’s activity in the app at the time the collision occurred.
Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage Periods
- Period 0: Driver Offline
- This is when the Uber/Lyft driver has not yet logged into the rideshare app, and causes an accident
- When this happens, Uber/Lyft will not provide liability coverage to injured parties
- Period 1: Driver Logged In, But No Ride Accepted
- This is when the Uber/Lyft driver causes an accident while logged in to the app, though the driver has not yet accepted a ride. In this case, Uber/Lyft will provide liability coverage of up to:
- $50,000 per person injured in the accident
- $100,000 total injury liability per accident
- $25,000 property damage liability.
- This is when the Uber/Lyft driver causes an accident while logged in to the app, though the driver has not yet accepted a ride. In this case, Uber/Lyft will provide liability coverage of up to:
- Period 2: Driver En Route to Pick Up Passenger
- This is when the Uber/Lyft driver causes an accident after accepting a trip and is en route to pick up the rider
- In this case, Uber/Lyft’s liability coverage increases to $1 million
- Period 3: Passenger in Vehicle
- When a passenger enters the rideshare vehicle, coverage remains up to $1 million
- Additional limited coverage may apply for any damage to the driver’s car and uninsured motorists’ coverage
What Should You Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Florida?
If you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident anywhere in Florida, whether traveling to the Tampa International Airport or on the way home from a fun night out with friends in Coral Gables, understanding how to proceed is critical. Taking the right steps can help protect your health and your right to pursue compensation. As with any auto accident, preserving evidence and seeking medical care are critical following a collision in a rideshare vehicle.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
- Call emergency services to request police and medical assistance at the scene
- Seek immediate care, even if injuries seem minor or you feel okay
- Gather the contact and insurance information of the driver
- Collect the contact information of any witnesses
- Keep the rideshare trip information provided through the app
- Keep all medical records and documents regarding treatment
- Do not provide recorded statements to insurers without first discussing matters with an attorney
Who May Face Liability for a Rideshare Accident?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident generally involves evaluating the behavior of the driver, insurance coverage period, vehicle condition, and other third-party hazards or conditions that contributed to the collision.
Rideshare accidents can raise complex questions regarding liability, as drivers are generally considered independent contractors rather than employees. As such, determining liability will depend on several factors. Additionally, depending on how the circumstances unfold, multiple parties may potentially face responsibility for a rideshare accident.
Potential Liable Parties
- The rideshare driver, if their negligent behavior caused the accident
- Another driver was involved in the collision
- The rideshare company’s insurance, depending on the stage the ride was in at the time
- The vehicle manufacturer, if a defective condition caused the collision
- Government entities, if road conditions or defective traffic signals lead to the crash
Contact our experienced Florida firm
Ansbacher Law is composed of knowledgeable attorneys who are ready to assist clients with various legal matters throughout Florida. We understand the urgency of your personal injury claim and additional legal matters, which is why we provide each of our clients with compassionate and efficient legal assistance every step of the way. Please contact our office for an initial consultation today.