Ordering an Uber or Lyft has become second nature for many people in St. Petersburg and throughout Tampa Bay. Whether you are heading out for the evening or traveling to downtown St. Petersburg, the beaches, Tampa International Airport, or anywhere in Pinellas County, rideshare services offer convenient, on-demand transportation at the tap of a screen. However, when an accident occurs and a passenger gets hurt, the situation becomes far more complicated than a typical car crash.
At Marsalisi Law, Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi is dedicated to helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. We represent injured clients throughout St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay, and we personally guide you through every step of the process, from the initial investigation through resolution.
Who Is Responsible for a Lyft or Uber Accident?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on the specific circumstances of the crash. In many cases, insurance coverage provided by the rideshare company applies when the driver is actively using the app, such as when picking up a passenger or transporting a rider to their destination. However, that does not automatically mean Uber or Lyft is legally liable, and responsibility often depends on multiple factors. Any of the following individuals or entities may be liable:
- Another driver involved in the collision;
- Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare company;
- The rideshare driver;
- A property owner or renter;
- Employers or employees;
- A city or state government entity;
- Negligent passengers or pedestrians;
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers; or
- Hired maintenance employees, including third-party contractors.
Every case is different, and identifying all available sources of recovery is critical to maximizing your claim.
State Regulations for Transportation Network Companies
Transportation network companies, or TNCs, like Uber and Lyft must follow specific laws that vary by state. In Florida, TNCs are required to maintain insurance coverage for their drivers and passengers. The required insurance coverage depends on what stage of the ride the driver is in at the time of the crash.
- If the driver is not logged into the app, only the driver’s personal insurance applies;
- If the driver is logged in but has not accepted a ride, TNCs must provide contingent coverage with minimum limits of $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage;
- If the driver has accepted a ride or is transporting a passenger, Florida law requires at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage to be in place.
In some cases, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may also apply, but it is highly dependent on the specific policy language and the facts of the crash, and is often the subject of coverage disputes. Comprehensive and collision coverage for vehicle damage may also be available during an active ride, but typically only if the driver carries those coverages on their personal policy, and a deductible will apply.
Because these coverage layers can be complex, it is important to have an attorney determine which policies apply.
Florida law also requires TNCs to run background checks on all prospective drivers to verify their criminal and driving records. These requirements are intended to help protect passengers, although they do not eliminate the risk of negligent driving.
Unfortunately, rideshare accidents still occur daily. Research has shown a correlation between the rise of rideshare services and an increase in overall traffic fatalities in major cities, as noted in studies reviewed by transportation safety researchers. While Lyft and Uber maintain significant insurance policies, proving the severity of your injuries to their insurers can be challenging without legal support.
How to Prove Liability in Your Rideshare Accident Claim
Rideshare accidents are handled according to personal injury laws in Florida. To receive monetary compensation, you must demonstrate four key elements. First, you were owed a duty of care, meaning the driver had a responsibility to operate the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. Second, someone breached their duty of care by acting negligently, such as driving while drowsy, speeding, or texting behind the wheel. Third, there is a clear connection between that negligence and your injuries, which medical documentation can help establish. Fourth, you have suffered actual losses due to the accident, such as medical expenses, lost income, or property damage.
We build these cases by gathering crash reports, app data, witness statements, medical records, and expert analysis to prove each element of your claim.
What Steps Should You Take After a Rideshare Accident?
Knowing what to do after a rideshare accident can make a meaningful difference in your claim. We recommend taking the following steps as soon as possible:
- Report the accident to law enforcement;
- Seek medical attention promptly;
- Follow all recommendations from your medical team;
- Retain an attorney as soon as possible;
- Avoid discussing your case on social media or with others outside your legal team;
- Provide only the minimal required information when speaking with any insurance company; and
- Keep all evidence related to your claim safe and organized.
At Marsalisi Law, we tailor our guidance to your specific situation so you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal side.
How Can a Lawyer Help in Your Lyft or Uber Accident?
Working with an attorney after a rideshare accident may be one of the most important steps you take. We conduct a thorough investigation, identify all available insurance coverage, coordinate your medical care when needed, and handle all communications with insurance companies so you do not have to. We also work with accident reconstruction experts and other professionals to strengthen your case and maximize your recovery. Most importantly, you will work directly with Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi, not be passed off to a case manager, so your case receives the attention it deserves. You can review our past settlements to get a sense of the results we have pursued for our clients.
In Florida, rideshare accidents involving hit-and-run drivers or other complex scenarios can add additional layers of difficulty. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side helps ensure no avenue for compensation is overlooked.
Contacting an Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer at Marsalisi Law
Marsalisi Law is committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims in and around St. Petersburg. Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi charges no upfront fees, and our firm does not receive payment unless we win your case. If your injuries prevent you from traveling, we can meet with you where it is most convenient.
We offer free consultations and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. To get started, please complete our contact form or reach out to us at your convenience. Call Marsalisi Law today to speak directly with a St. Petersburg Uber and Lyft accident lawyer about your case. Marsalisi Law is Where Law Gets Personal.
Reference:
https://news.uchicago.edu/story/ride-hailing-services-may-be-driving-traffic-deaths