Who is liable for an Uber or Lyft car accident in Florida?
Posted on February 28, 2022
Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer in Orlando
Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are more popular now than ever, making it extremely important for rideshare customers and drivers to learn how these services affect liability during an accident. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, determining who is responsible could be complicated. If you were in an accident while in an Uber or Lyft, you will need the help of an experienced car accident lawyer. Contact us for a free consultation!
Here are some things you should take into consideration to understand liability during an Uber or Lyft accident.
1. Ridesharing companies have insurance policies too
Like you, ridesharing companies are required by law to have an insurance policy to help cover damages in the event of an accident. Under Florida law, individual drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) with a minimum coverage of $10,000. But Florida also requires companies to carry additional coverage for special cases.
Uber and Lyft must carry $1,000,000 of additional coverage for property damage liability, as well as another $1,000,000 for liability to any third party. Furthermore, their drivers must have a $50,000 policy for bodily injury or death liability. These policies usually apply when the drivers are carrying a passenger or are on their way to pick up a passenger.
2. Florida Liability laws still apply
In the event of a car accident, Florida law is still critical in deciding how damages are covered. If the damages are minor, every driver must cover their personal injury losses through their PIP, even if the at-fault driver is associated with Uber or Lyft.
In our experience, Uber does have underinsured/uninsured motorist protection but Lyft does not. We keep seeing different policies arise over time, so this concept keeps changing.
If you are the driver operating under one of these companies, it will be important to hire an attorney to explore what policy if any may cover the driver of a Lyft or Uber when they are not-at-fault. Additionally, coverage can be effected if the owner of the car/driver is operating the car “in-between” trips but has failed to notify their own insurance company that they are using their car for work purposes. We are starting to see where insurance companies are denying coverage under what is known as a “material misrepresentation” in this instance.
3. Are you an Uber or Lyft Driver?
If you are an Uber or Lyft driver, the company's insurance policy protects you while you are driving or picking up a passenger you connected with through the app. Of course, don't forget that if you are traveling alone, you will only receive the minimum coverage.
Uber or Lyft's policy may not cover your losses if you are responsible for the accident. We recommend that you hire an experienced attorney to understand in detail the terms of the company's policy and your PIP.
Also, keep in mind that if you are not using your vehicle for ridesharing, only Florida's regular car accident laws will apply. Check our Car Accident FAQ if you want to learn more.
Having the support of a lawyer is your best option!
As you can see, Lyft and Uber car accidents can get very complicated. Filing a claim for damages while dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance company hurdles can make the situation even worse. You need the support of a dedicated team to look out for your health and wellbeing and help you after an auto accident. Call us today to speak with Jason Recksiedler or Caroline Fischer Espi. Jason is Board Certified as an expert in Trial Law by the Florida Bar and has recovered millions for clients injured in car accidents because of the negligence of others. We are available at 321-999-1111 24 hours a day. You may also send us an email or fill out the online form located on this page and we will contact you shortly.