Understanding Rideshare Accident Liability
Uber and Lyft have changed how Floridians travel—but when an accident happens, determining who’s legally responsible can be complicated. Unlike traditional taxi services, rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This means Uber and Lyft often try to avoid direct liability when a driver causes a crash.
However, Florida law requires these companies to maintain specific insurance coverage that can compensate injured passengers, pedestrians, or other motorists depending on when the accident occurred.
Florida’s Rideshare Insurance Rules
Under Florida Statute § 627.748, insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:
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App Off / Driver Not Logged In:
Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. Uber or Lyft’s coverage does not. -
App On / Waiting for a Ride Request:
Uber and Lyft must provide at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage, plus $25,000 for property damage. -
Ride Accepted / Passenger in Vehicle:
Uber and Lyft must carry $1 million in liability coverage for accidents that occur from the time a trip is accepted until the passenger exits the vehicle.
This insurance structure often creates confusion—especially when multiple parties (the driver, the company, or another motorist) share fault.
Can You Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?
While Uber and Lyft usually argue that they’re not responsible for a driver’s negligence, there are limited circumstances where a lawsuit against the company itself may be appropriate. You may be able to sue Uber or Lyft directly if:
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The company failed to properly vet or suspend a driver with a dangerous record;
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A defective app feature (like GPS distraction or faulty navigation) contributed to the crash; or
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The rideshare company denied coverage or acted in bad faith under its insurance policy.
Because these cases involve complex liability questions and aggressive corporate defense teams, hiring an experienced Florida rideshare accident lawyer is essential.
What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you’re injured while using a rideshare service, take these steps to protect your claim:
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Call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
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Document the scene — take photos, gather witness information, and note app details (ride receipt, driver name, etc.).
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Report the accident in the app, but avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal advice.
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Consult a personal injury attorney who understands Florida’s rideshare laws and can preserve critical evidence.
How a Florida Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
An experienced attorney can determine which insurance policies apply, negotiate with Uber or Lyft’s insurers, and file a lawsuit if necessary to recover compensation for:
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Medical expenses
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Property damage
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Future care and rehabilitation costs
With Florida’s comparative negligence rule (F.S. § 768.81), even partially at-fault victims may still recover damages, though the amount can be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Final Thoughts
Rideshare injury cases in Florida are legally complex and time-sensitive. Uber and Lyft have powerful legal teams and layered insurance policies designed to limit payouts. Don’t face them alone—speak with a qualified Florida personal injury lawyer who can protect your rights and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Have you or someone you know been injured as a result of an automobile 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.
