Everything You Need to Know About Uber Car Accidents in Florida
Rideshare companies like Uber have established themselves as an alternative form of travel for commuters, tourists, and locals visiting more metropolis areas in their district. However, as more motor vehicle accidents and other serious incidents (e.g., sexual assault or physical assault) came into light involving Uber drivers, the rideshare company came under fire for not holding itself accountable for victims’ damages.
If you or a loved one was in an Uber motor vehicle accident, this article serves as a resource guide for everything you need to know about Uber car accidents. We will discuss Uber’s insurance policy terms, what kind of damages you may be entitled to, and the legal information you should know if you want to pursue compensation.
Who Is Liable If an Uber Car Driver Gets Into an Accident?
As Uber’s rideshare services became more mainstream, states across the nation had to address how to handle liability in accident cases involving rideshare vehicles. Uber released a U.S. Safety Report for 2017-2018 to show transparency in its services. The company reported 107 fatal motor vehicle accident reports between 2017 and 2018, with 97 accidents related to their app services.
In most legislature, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are referred to as “transportation network companies” (TNCs). Unique rules apply to TNCs because these companies use application technology and independent contractors to provide their services. Because of this, liability can shift depending on whether the driver was using the rideshare app during an accident.
Uber details its insurance policy for its drivers on when the company steps in to cover an accident. These terms are generally:
- If the driver was not logged into the app, Uber does not provide coverage: All Uber drivers must have their own automobile insurance to cover accidents not involving Uber. So, if a rideshare driver gets into an accident and is not logged in to the app to provide services on behalf of Uber, they will have to use their insurance to cover the accident.
- If the driver was logged into the app but waiting for a ride request, Uber may provide coverage: Uber may hold partial liability if the rideshare driver was logged into the app and available for services. However, Uber’s policy mandates that the company will only step in if the driver’s auto insurer does not provide coverage. Policy limits exist in these cases.
- If the driver was actively giving a passenger a ride, Uber offers third-party liability coverage: If the rideshare driver is logged in to the app and gets into an accident while actively transporting a passenger, Uber may be held liable for damages and cover the accident.
If you are unsure whether Uber maintains liability in your accident, an Uber car accident lawyer can review your case and confirm this for you.
What is Uber’s Insurance Policy on Motor Vehicle Accidents?
Uber’s insurance policy limits can apply if the rideshare driver was logged into the app but waiting for a ride request:
- $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person
- $100,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident
- $25,000 in property damage coverage per accident
Some states may have different insurance requirements for TNCs regarding liability coverage, which Uber must comply with if it is found partially or totally liable for an accident.
Additionally, if a driver was actively giving a ride to a passenger when an accident occurred, Uber is liable for providing:
- $1,000,000 third-party liability coverage
- Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage for accidents involving bodily injury
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage
Do Other Rideshare Companies Have Similar Policies?
Yes. Other rideshare companies like Lyft often have similar insurance policies for rideshare accidents due to TNC laws in various states. Your lawyer can confirm how much coverage you may qualify to claim in your accident.
What Kind of Damages Can a Rideshare Accident Victim Claim in Their Case?
You may claim the following types of damages in a rideshare accident case:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Income loss
- Reduced earning potential
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Diminished quality of life
- Emotional distress
Other damages may apply to your case, which your lawyer can inform you about when estimating the value of your losses. If you are filing a case on behalf of a deceased loved one, then you may also qualify for wrongful death damages, such as funeral arrangements costs or loss of consortium.
A Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Represent You and Stand Up to Uber
Many people find it intimidating to file a lawsuit against major corporations like Uber. However, they do not have to take legal action by themselves. If you want to take legal action against a rideshare company, a lawyer can manage your case and:
- Investigate the accident
- Collect evidence to support your claims
- Advocate for you in negotiation meetings or at trial
- Review insurance policies to determine which damages you can claim
- Provide legal counsel whenever you have questions
You may be limited in how long you have to file your case. Your lawyer can review your state’s statute of limitations to determine how much time you have to submit your case.
Call Distasio Law Firm If You Were in an Uber Car Accident in Florida
If you or a loved one suffered injury in a car accident involving an Uber driver in Florida, you may have grounds to file for compensation. A personal injury lawyer from Distasio Law Firm can review your case and identify whether the at-fault driver or Uber may be held liable for your injuries and damages. If so, we can help you build a case against them.
Our legal team works on contingency, so you do not have to pay any attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Contact us today for a free case review.
As an ethical and trusted Tampa personal injury lawyer, Scott Distasio founded Distasio Law Firm in February of 2006, which focuses on all types of personal injury cases. He wanted to open a law firm that represented his belief that all firms should provide ethical and outstanding service to their clients.
