Mar 16, 2020

Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Miami? Here’s What You Need to Know

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have become part of everyday life in Florida. But when an accident happens, things can get complicated quickly. Whether you were a passenger, driver, or another motorist, you may be wondering who’s responsible for your injuries and how to get compensated.

At AccidentLawFirm.com, our Miami rideshare accident attorneys have handled many of these cases. We know how confusing it can be to deal with insurance companies that pass the blame and deny responsibility. This guide explains what you should know after a rideshare accident and how to protect your rights.

Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Florida

Unlike traditional taxis or buses, rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors. This means that Uber and Lyft often avoid liability when their drivers cause accidents.

However, Florida law requires these companies to carry insurance coverage for accidents that happen while the app is active. The challenge lies in determining which policy applies depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

App Off: If the driver wasn’t logged in, their personal auto insurance applies.
App On, Waiting for a Ride Request: Uber/Lyft provides limited liability coverage.
During a Ride or While En Route to Pick Up a Passenger: Full commercial coverage (up to $1 million) applies.

These distinctions matter because insurance companies may argue over whose policy should pay. That’s why having an experienced lawyer is crucial to handle the investigation and claim.

Who Can File a Rideshare Accident Claim?

You may be eligible to file a claim if you were:

A rideshare passenger injured in an Uber or Lyft crash
A driver hit by a rideshare vehicle
A pedestrian or cyclist struck by a rideshare car
An Uber or Lyft driver injured while working

Each scenario has its own challenges, especially when multiple insurance policies are involved. The key is proving negligence that someone’s careless or reckless behavior caused the accident.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare crashes often occur for the same reasons as other motor vehicle accidents, but with added distractions and pressures. Common causes include:

Distracted driving (especially checking the rideshare app)
Fatigue from long hours behind the wheel
Speeding or aggressive driving to reach destinations faster
Poor vehicle maintenance
Failure to obey traffic signals

Regardless of the cause, if another party’s negligence caused your injuries, you deserve compensation.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Miami

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare crash, take the following steps to protect your case:

Call 911 and ensure a police report is filed.
Get medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel severe pain right away.
Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
Exchange information with all drivers and witnesses.
Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters until you consult a lawyer.
Contact a Miami rideshare accident attorney at AccidentLawFirm.com to discuss your rights.

Insurance companies may try to delay or deny your claim, so having legal representation from the start makes a significant difference.

Challenges in Rideshare Accident Claims

One of the biggest challenges in these cases is dealing with multiple insurers. You might have to go through:

The rideshare company’s commercial policy
The driver’s personal auto insurance
Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

Each insurer may try to shift responsibility onto the other. Without an experienced attorney, accident victims often end up with delayed settlements or denied claims.

At AccidentLawFirm.com, we know the tactics these companies use and we fight back with evidence, strategy, and persistence to secure full and fair compensation.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you were injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to recover damages such as

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost income and loss of earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Property damage
Long-term rehabilitation costs

We understand how disruptive these accidents can be. Our job is to ensure you get the financial support you need to recover and move forward.

Contact Our Miami Rideshare Accident Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one was injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Our Miami rideshare accident attorneys at AccidentLawFirm.com are ready to help you every step of the way.

We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let us handle the legal process while you focus on healing.

Call us today or visit AccidentLawFirm.com to schedule your consultation and get the justice you deserve.

FAQs About Rideshare Accidents in Florida

Who is responsible for my injuries in a rideshare accident?

It depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. If the driver was transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up, Uber or Lyft’s policy may apply. Otherwise, personal insurance may be responsible.

Can I file a claim if I was the Uber or Lyft driver?

Yes. If another driver caused the accident or you were hit while the app was active, you may still qualify for compensation. However, as an independent contractor, you’re not covered by workers’ comp.

What should I do if Uber or Lyft’s insurance denies my claim?

Contact a lawyer immediately. An attorney can appeal the denial, gather evidence, and negotiate directly with the insurer to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in Florida?

Florida law generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Don’t wait; key evidence can disappear quickly.

How much does it cost to hire a rideshare accident lawyer?

At AccidentLawFirm.com, you pay no upfront fees. We work on a contingency basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case.