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Ridesharing has completely changed the way people get around in Florida. With just a few taps on your phone, you can have a ride waiting at your doorstep in minutes. However, as convenient as Uber and Lyft are, accidents can still happen.
If you find yourself injured while riding in one of these vehicles, you are probably wondering who is responsible for covering your medical bills and other damages. The answer depends on several factors, including what phase of the ride the driver was in when the accident happened.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage in Florida
Florida law treats rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft differently from regular drivers. Because they operate commercially but use personal vehicles, the state requires them to carry special insurance policies. These policies are designed to fill the gaps between the driver’s auto insurance and the increased risks involved with transporting paying passengers.
When a rideshare driver is not logged into the app, their auto insurance is the only coverage in play. Once the driver logs into the app and is available to accept ride requests, Uber and Lyft provide a layer of coverage in case an accident happens. The level of protection then increases even more when a driver is actually carrying a passenger or actively en route to pick someone up.
When the Driver is Not Logged Into the App
If Uber or Lyft drivers are completely offline, then Uber and Lyft do not provide any coverage. The driver’s personal insurance must cover any accident, just as if they were driving to the grocery store or a friend’s house. If an offline rideshare driver injures you, you will usually need to pursue compensation through their auto policy.
When the Driver is Logged In but Has Not Picked Up a Passenger
Once a driver logs into the app and is waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage. In Florida, this typically means coverage of at least $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 total per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. This insurance helps protect you if you are injured by a driver who is technically working but does not yet have a passenger in the car.
When the Driver is En Route to Pick Up or is Transporting a Passenger
Once a rideshare driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide a $1 million liability policy. This coverage is meant to pay for injuries to passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, and anyone else hurt in the accident. It also includes some uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which can be critical if another driver caused the accident but does not have enough insurance.
What If Another Driver Caused the Accident?
Sometimes, it is not the Uber or Lyft driver who is at fault. If another car causes the accident while you are a passenger in a rideshare, that driver’s insurance is supposed to pay for your injuries. However, if the at-fault driver does not have enough coverage or has no insurance at all, Uber and Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help fill the gap.
Common Challenges in Rideshare Accident Claims
Rideshare accident claims can quickly become complicated. Sometimes, the biggest fight is over which insurance company is responsible for paying. Uber and Lyft might argue that the driver was not properly logged into the app, or the personal insurance carrier might deny the claim because the driver was working for a rideshare service at the time, which many personal policies exclude.
Another common issue is the severity of injuries. Insurance companies often try to minimize the seriousness of your injuries. They might argue that your injuries were pre-existing or that you are exaggerating your pain. That is why solid medical documentation and experienced legal help are so important.
Delays are also a real problem. Negotiating with multiple insurance companies can drag out the process for months or even years. Many people get frustrated and settle for far less than they deserve, simply because they need money to cover bills now. Having a strong advocate on your side can help push the process forward and ensure your rights are protected.
Why Legal Help Matters
Dealing with the aftermath of a rideshare accident can feel overwhelming. Between doctor’s appointments, missed work, and mounting bills, it is easy to feel like you are drowning. Trying to navigate the complicated insurance world without help only adds to the stress.
A good personal injury attorney understands how Uber and Lyft insurance policies work. They know how to gather evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate with insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve. They can also handle the legal paperwork and deadlines, so you can focus on healing and getting your life back on track.
Call Linton Robinson & Higgins, LLP Today
If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Florida, you do have options. Depending on the circumstances, either the rideshare company’s insurance or another driver’s insurance should cover your injuries. Florida’s laws aim to provide protection, but the process is rarely straightforward.
With the right help, you can navigate the claims process and work toward getting the full compensation you deserve. Call Linton Robinson & Higgins, LLP at our New York City office at 332-241-9036 or our Miami office at 786-882-7316 to schedule a free consultation with our team.
