Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Florida: What Are Your Rights?
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a convenient way to travel across Florida, but when an accident happens, figuring out who’s responsible can be confusing. Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or even a pedestrian, knowing your rights after a rideshare accident is critical to protecting your claim and securing fair compensation.
Who Can Be Liable in a Florida Rideshare Accident?
Rideshare accidents involve multiple parties and layers of insurance coverage. Depending on the facts, one or more of the following may be liable for your injuries:
-
The Uber or Lyft driver – if they were negligent (e.g., distracted driving, speeding, or running a red light).
-
Another driver – if the crash was caused by another motorist.
-
Uber or Lyft’s insurance company – depending on whether the rideshare app was on and whether the driver was transporting a passenger.
-
Vehicle owners or third parties – such as those responsible for defective vehicle parts or road hazards.
Understanding Uber and Lyft’s Insurance Coverage in Florida
Florida law requires Uber and Lyft to carry significant insurance coverage when their drivers are actively engaged in the app:
-
App On, No Passenger Yet: Up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.
-
Passenger in the Vehicle: Up to $1 million in liability coverage for injuries and deaths caused by the rideshare driver.
-
App Off: Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
Because rideshare insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status in the app, it’s important to document everything after the crash — including screenshots showing whether the driver was “on trip” or waiting for a ride.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Florida
-
Call 911 and report the crash to law enforcement.
-
Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine — Florida’s no-fault law (PIP) has a strict 14-day rule for seeking care.
-
Document the scene by taking photos, getting witness information, and noting the rideshare driver’s details.
-
Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app.
-
Contact an experienced Florida personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and deal with insurance companies on your behalf.
Can You Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?
Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees — which usually shields the companies from direct liability. However, if the company’s negligence contributed to the crash (such as inadequate background checks or vehicle safety failures), you may still have a claim against them.
An attorney experienced in rideshare litigation can help identify every available avenue for compensation.
Recoverable Damages in a Rideshare Injury Claim
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to recover damages for:
-
Medical expenses and future medical care
-
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
-
Pain and suffering
-
Emotional distress
-
Property damage
-
Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed in the accident)
Protect Your Rights After an Uber or Lyft Accident
Dealing with multiple insurance companies and overlapping policies can quickly become overwhelming. Insurance adjusters may try to shift blame or downplay your injuries — which is why having an attorney on your side can make all the difference.
A Florida rideshare accident lawyer can help you investigate liability, coordinate medical documentation, and pursue full compensation under both rideshare and personal insurance policies.
Speak With a Florida Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident anywhere in Florida, don’t navigate the complex insurance system alone. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact our firm today for a free consultation.
Have you or someone you know been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident? Contact Florida Personal Injury Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo by dialing his direct number at (786) 272-5841, calling the main office at (305) 461-1095, or Toll Free at 1 (866) 71-CLAIM or email Miami Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at jp@yourattorneys.com or by text at (305) 929-8935.
