Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a convenient part of everyday life in Florida. But when an accident happens, determining who pays for your injuries can be complicated. Florida’s no-fault insurance laws and rideshare-specific insurance requirements make these cases different from typical car accidents. Here’s what every rideshare passenger or driver should know.
Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Basics
Florida is a no-fault state, meaning each driver’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for their own medical expenses and lost wages—regardless of who caused the crash. However, PIP coverage is limited (usually $10,000), and serious injuries may allow you to step outside the no-fault system to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver or another responsible party.
When a rideshare is involved, things get more complex because Uber and Lyft drivers use their personal vehicles but operate under commercial insurance coverage during certain parts of the trip.
Who Is Responsible? It Depends on the Driver’s Status
The rideshare driver’s app status at the time of the crash determines which insurance policy applies:
-
App Off / Not Logged In:
If the rideshare driver is not using the app, their personal auto insurance applies—just like any other driver. -
App On / Waiting for a Ride Request:
When the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide contingent coverage:-
$50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
-
$25,000 for property damage
This coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance does not.
-
-
Ride Accepted / Passenger in Vehicle:
Once a ride request is accepted or a passenger is in the car, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
This means if you’re an injured passenger, there’s usually a $1 million insurance policy available to cover your damages.
What If Another Driver Caused the Crash?
If another driver caused the accident, you may pursue a claim against that driver’s bodily injury liability coverage—if they have it. If they’re uninsured or underinsured, Uber’s or Lyft’s UM/UIM coverage may apply to protect you.
Can You Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?
Generally, Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This limits the companies’ direct liability. However, in certain cases—such as negligent hiring or failure to maintain safety standards—a lawsuit against the rideshare company itself may be possible.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
-
Seek immediate medical attention
-
Report the crash to law enforcement and the rideshare company
-
Gather driver and witness information
-
Take photos of the scene and vehicle damage
-
Contact a Florida rideshare accident lawyer to navigate the insurance claims process
Get Help After a Rideshare Injury in Florida
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft crash, determining who pays for your injuries can be confusing. An experienced Florida personal injury attorney can help identify all available insurance coverage, deal with the rideshare company, and pursue full compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Have you or someone you know been injured in a rideshare 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.
