Who is Responsible for an Uber or Lyft Accident in Florida?

Uber and Lyft are both common forms of transportation, especially in Florida. Also referred to as a a rideshare, these transportation sources are a great alternative when you have been drinking or when you’re visiting an area without a vehicle. Understanding what steps to take following a rideshare accident may be important if you rely on Uber or Lyft.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can occur for many of the same reasons as traditional car accidents. Some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents include:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Distracted driving
• Traffic light violations, like running a yellow light
• Speeding

These causes can be the fault of the rideshare driver or another driver on the road. Common causes of rideshare accidents, including intoxication or distracted driving, may be considered negligence. 

Who’s Responsible When a Rideshare Accident Occurs?

When using a rideshare in the state of Florida, it’s typically the driver’s responsibility to keep passengers safe. This means if they’re negligent in any way, they may be responsible for any damages that occur. However, if another driver on the road is at fault for the accident, they may be the one who’s liable. For example, another driver may be texting and driving, causing them to rear-end your rideshare vehicle. Even though the rideshare driver has done everything to protect your safety, they can’t prevent every accident. In this case, you may seek compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. 

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

It’s important to take certain steps when involved in a rideshare accident to protect your legal rights. The steps you take right after a rideshare accident may be important in finding out who’s responsible.

Step 1: Notify the Police

You should always file a police report following a Florida rideshare accident. This creates an official report that may serve as important evidence in your case later on. 

Step 2: Seek Medical Attention

It’s also important to seek medical attention following a rideshare accident. Some injuries may not show up until later, putting you in a precarious situation. If you wait to receive medical care, it may also put your options for compensation at risk. The other insurance company may try to claim that your injuries aren’t related to the specific accident since you didn’t seek prompt medical care. 

Step 3: Gather Evidence

Gathering evidence can help prove responsibility in your case. This includes taking photographs or videos of the scene of the accident. It also means collecting the contact information of any witnesses. You could also swap information with the other drivers and passengers involved in the accident.

Step 4: File a Claim

If you experience injuries, you’ll want to file a claim as soon as possible. You may file a claim with your insurance company, depending on who’s at fault. You may also be able to submit a claim through Uber or Lyft. If you’re unsure where to file your insurance claim, or each insurance provider is pushing you off to someone else, it may be worth reaching out to a personal injury lawyer.

Rideshare accidents can be confusing, especially when each company tries to blame someone else for what transpired. Contact an experienced car accident lawyer today to consider your options and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve and need for recovery.

Contact a Miami Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Uber or Lyft Accident Case in Florida

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an Uber or Lyft accident in Miami, Florida? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. DLopez Law Firm represents clients injured because of Uber or Lyft accidents in Miami, Coral Gables, Palmetto Bay, University Park, Cutler Bay, and throughout Florida. Call (305) 224-8354 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 1825 Ponce de Leon Blvd. No 527, Coral Gables, FL 33134.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.