Uber, Lyft, and even other rideshare programs are extremely popular in Lake City. Ridesharing programs are very convenient for the residents and the thousands of visitors that come to the city every year. However, ridesharing vehicles, and the drivers that operate them, are just as likely to be involved in a crash than any other driver on the road. After an accident, victims face the even more daunting task of trying to obtain compensation from the at-fault driver. A Lake City rideshare accidents attorney can help you claim the full damages you need after being hurt.
Determining Fault After Rideshare Accidents
Determining which driver was at fault is difficult after any car accident but it is even more challenging after a rideshare accident. If the at-fault party was not the rideshare driver but instead, another motorist, you can file a claim directly with their insurance policy to claim damages. If the ridesharing driver was not logged into the app at the time and waiting or carrying a passenger, you can only claim up to the limits on their personal insurance policy.
On the other hand, if the ridesharing driver did have the app turned on at the time of the accident and was either carrying a passenger or on their way to pick someone up, the ridesharing service will provide some coverage after a crash. This coverage can include up to $50,000 per person, or $100,000 for the entire accident. Uber and Lyft will also provide up to $25,000 for any property damage that was a result of the crash.
Maximum compensation is available for passengers and other accident victims that are injured in a crash caused by the ridesharing driver. In these cases, ridesharing services will offer up to $1 million in liability insurance. Although that sounds like a significant amount of damages, the insurance company covering the ridesharing service will work hard to try and deny accident victims the compensation they deserve.
No Win, No Fee—Let Our Lake City Rideshare Accident Lawyer Fight for You!
Collecting Evidence After Rideshare Accidents
To ensure you recover the full damages you deserve after a rideshare accident, it is important to work with a knowledgeable Lake City rideshare accidents lawyer. To prove your claim to the insurance company, you will need substantial evidence and a lawyer will collect this while you recover from your injuries.
The most important evidence in a rideshare accident claim may include GPS data to determine where the driver was at the time, and if they were logged into the app and working. Dash cam video surveillance is also becoming more common, and can be obtained after locating eyewitnesses to the crash. Video surveillance footage from nearby businesses can also show which passengers were getting into and out of a rideshare vehicle, and cell phone records can be subpoenaed to prove a rideshare driver was texting at the time of the crash.
Our Lake City Rideshare Accidents Attorney Can Prove Your Case
If you have been hurt by a negligent Uber or Lyft driver, our Lake City personal injury lawyers at Meldon Law can prove your case and help you obtain the full damages you deserve. Call us now or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.
Lake City Rideshare Accident FAQs
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly if their driver hit me in Lake City?
In Florida, you typically cannot sue Uber or Lyft directly for a driver’s negligence because drivers are classified as independent contractors. However, you can file a claim against the company’s specific $1 million insurance policy if the driver was logged into the app and active during the Lake City accident.
Does Uber’s insurance cover me if I was a passenger in a different car hit by an Uber driver?
Yes. If an Uber driver was active on the app and caused the crash, their commercial insurance may cover your injuries. Depending on the driver’s “status” (waiting for a fare or on a trip), coverage limits in Lake City can range from $50,000 to $1 million in liability.
What if the Lyft driver was offline but still had the trade dress (sticker) on their car?
If the driver is offline, Lyft’s commercial insurance typically won’t apply, regardless of the sticker. You must seek recovery through the driver’s personal insurance. A Lake City lawyer can investigate app data to confirm the driver’s true status and identify all available coverage.
Can I still get PIP benefits if I was injured as an Uber passenger in Florida?
Yes. In Florida, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is primary. If you own a vehicle or live with a relative who does, you must first file a claim through that personal policy. If you don’t have PIP, coverage may come from the rideshare company’s policy.
Meldon Law
Address: 2941 W US Hwy 90 Suite 117, Lake City, FL 32055, United States
Phone: 352-373-8000
Opening Hours: Call Us 24/7 For Legal Help
