Ride-share services are a popular way to get from A to B. In fact, there were 64 billion trips in an Uber during 2022, according to Ride Share Guy. While fast and convenient, there are risks associated with these types of services. If you’ve been injured in an Uber, Lyft, or other ride-sharing service, whether as a driver, passenger, or a pedestrian, you may be entitled to compensation.
Steps to Take After an Accident
- Seek Medical Attention: Call 911 or your emergency number. Do not wait, as some injuries may not be readily visible at the time of the accident. It is vital that you get examined, receive appropriate care, and have any injuries properly documented.
- Call the Police: Even if you don’t seek medical attention, call the police for supplemental documentation and to ensure an official report of the accident is taken. Key details are often lost the longer one takes to report.
- Take Photos: It can be important to take photos if you’re able, such as of the placement of the accident and the vehicles involved. Taking photos of your own injuries also strengthens any potential case.
- Gather Rideshare Driver’s Information: Be sure to get insurance information and note the license plate number, color, make, and model of any cars involved.
- Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company: You shouldn’t assume the driver will call and report it. It’s important that you make the call regardless.
- Call Your Insurance Company: If you were in your own vehicle and had an accident with a rideshare driver, contact your own insurance company as soon as possible. It’s important that they gather your information.
Working with Uber and Lyft
Traffic accidents can be reported in the Trip Issues section of any ride-sharing application, including Uber or Lyft. Reporting is the first step in working with the ride-sharing company for potential claims processing. Uber and Lyft drivers in Florida must be 21 years of age with a driver’s license and proof of insurance and registration. Their vehicles must be 2005 or newer and have passed inspections. Both companies require $1 million in insurance protection when they are logged into the service. While they are technically independent contractors, rideshare drivers don’t have the same protections as a normal hourly employee.
Both Uber and Lyft drivers carry comprehensive insurance coverage in Florida, with the following specifications:
- Drivers with Passengers: $1 million liability for property damage, bodily injury, and death. Florida law also requires PIP and UIM coverage.
- Drivers Logged In/Not Carrying Passengers: $25,000 property damage, $50,000 death and bodily injury per person, and $100,000 bodily injury per accident. Florida law also requires PIP and UIM coverage.
Potential Causes of Rideshare Accidents
While accidents involving rideshare applications are often the same as regular car accidents, there are a few added risks with these types of vehicle services such as:
- Sleepy Drivers: Drivers may be working longer hours with a gig service like Uber or Lyft, as they are paid by the ride and not by the hour. This can cause drivers to work well beyond their physical limitations.
- Distracted Drivers: Drivers use a phone app to find clients and GPS the destination. This can cause distractions and increase the chances for an accident.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Drivers may not know the area that they are picking up or dropping off from and may make mistakes that can lead to accidents. Gig services like Uber and Lyft are popular among younger drivers that may not have years of driving experience.
- Speedy Drivers: Again, drivers are paid by the job and not by the hour so the faster they can get the ride done and on to the next one the more money they make. This may contribute to drivers speeding or cutting corners with safety.
Hiring an Experienced Miami Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver, contact a car accident attorney that understands the complexities involved. Since there are multiple parties involved that could hold liability, it is critical you have representation.
With years of experience in multi-party vehicle accidents, Aigen Injury Law can help you with your Uber or Lyft injury claim. We provide free consultations and, if your case qualifies, you don’t pay anything unless we win. Contact us to make an appointment today.