Ride sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft have continued to grow in popularity throughout the state of Florida. With millions of visitors coming to the area each year, ridesharing has become the best way for both tourists and locals to get around.
These drivers, however, are no safer than any other driver, which means the risk of being involved in an Uber or Lyft accident is just as high as it could be if you were driving. Determining liability after an Uber or Lyft accident can be difficult, whether you were a passenger or the driver.
The Uber or Lyft driver will need to contact their company immediately. You should avoid signing any documents you do not understand, or speaking with the driver or a company representative. As soon as possible after the accident, contact Attorney Pelosi. He can review your claim and determine if you are eligible to file a claim against the driver, their insurer, the company’s insurer, and any other liable parties.
WHO CAN BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR AN UBER OR LYFT ACCIDENT?
Proving fault can be very tricky in this situation. If another driver causes the accident, they may be held liable for the crash and a claim may be made against their insurer. If you were the passenger of an at-fault Uber or Lyft driver, you are not at fault and should be able to recover damages. However, if you were involved with an off-duty Uber or Lyft driver, it would be the driver rather than the company who would be held responsible.
Uber, for example, offers the following breakdown of their insurance policy:
When the app is turned OFF: In these instances, only the driver’s personal auto insurance can be used. As they are not technically on the job, Uber cannot be held responsible for any damage caused in an accident.
When the app is turned ON and the driver is available: Both the driver’s personal insurance and Uber’s contingent liability coverage can be accessed in the case of a crash, which includes up to $50,000 to $100,000 for injuries, and $25,000 for property damage.
When the app is turned ON and the driver is on a trip: The company’s commercial insurance coverage is provided, including up to $1 million in third party liability and $1 million in uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. PLEASE NOTE: This has changed to $250,000.00 per accident for Lyft as of April of 2019.
Each of these situations can complicate the insurance claims process, which is why it is essential to contact our offices immediately. We will immediately help you determine who to file a claim against and the amount of damages to which you may be entitled.
Seek immediate medical attention afterward, and contact us, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, via telephone at (954) 870-5479 or email at geoff@pelosiinjurylaw.com. We will always keep in touch with you every step of the way throughout your case and respond to all telephone calls and emails; you will never be left wondering what is occurring with your case and you will never be told we are too busy to speak with you.
