Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a staple for getting around Tampa, offering significant convenience. They also present a unique legal challenge for you and your rideshare accident lawyer when accidents occur. Hunter Law is here to help you understand your legal rights in Tampa, FL. This article discusses liability, insurance coverage, and your options for pursuing compensation for Uber and Lyft accidents.
Determining Liability in Tampa Uber & Lyft Accidents | Taxi Accident Lawyer
Companies like Uber and Lyft are different from traditional taxi companies. Liability in rideshare accidents often depends on the status of the driver and whether they were actively working when the accident happened. There are also specific criteria that need to be met for an Uber and Lyft accident lawyer to sue on your behalf. Here’s how liability is typically determined in these scenarios:
- Driver Off the App: If the Uber or Lyft driver isn’t logged in to the app, their personal insurance may be responsible for covering any damages or injuries, but Uber and Lyft would not be responsible.
- App On, Waiting for a Ride: When a driver is logged in and waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage. Generally, this is up to $50,000 per person injured, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- En Route or with a Passenger: The highest level of insurance coverage applies when a driver is on the way to pick up a passenger or is actively transporting someone. In these cases, both Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability coverage.
If you’re unsure about who’s responsible, consulting with an experienced auto injury lawyer from our team at Hunter Law can clarify your options. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of rideshare accident claims.
Filing a Claim After a Rideshare Accident in Tampa, FL
Whether you were a passenger or hit by a rideshare driver, you have the right to seek compensation. Here’s how our car accident injury lawyers approach the claims process:
- If the Rideshare Driver Is at Fault: When the Uber or Lyft driver is responsible, you can file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurance. Remember, this is the case as long as they were on duty. The $1 million coverage provided by Uber and Lyft typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to your accident.
- If Another Driver Is at Fault: If another driver caused the accident, you would file a claim against that driver’s insurance. However, if the driver’s insurance isn’t enough to cover your losses, Lyft or Uber’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage might apply.
- Multiple Parties at Fault: In some cases, liability is shared between drivers. An injury accident lawyer from Hunter Law can help you understand how to pursue claims to maximize compensation.
Types of Compensation Your Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Sue For
After a rideshare accident, you can potentially get various forms of compensation to cover your losses. These include:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for hospital bills, doctor visits, medication, and ongoing care related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: Coverage for income that you lose when you cannot work as a result of your accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Financial compensation for any physical or emotional impact associated with injuries.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to your vehicle or other personal property.
At Hunter Law, we understand how important it is to secure fair compensation that reflects the full scope of your losses. Our team of the top accident attorneys in Tampa works to ensure that you receive the support you need during recovery.
Steps To Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident
Taking the right steps immediately after an accident with a rideshare vehicle can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim. Here are some important steps to consider:
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries you might have. Collect contact information from all the witnesses and every driver involved.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you think you only have minor injuries, you should still get checked by a healthcare provider. Having a medical record of your injuries provides your rideshare accident attorney with valuable evidence for your claim.
- Consult With a Tampa Injury Lawyer: A lawyer for accidents involving Uber and Lyft can assess your case, help you navigate insurance claims, and help you decide if it makes sense to file a lawsuit.
- Report the Incident: Assuming you have already contacted Hunter Law to represent you for your accident, then your lawyer can do all the leg work for you and report the accident to the insurance carriers involved. This will save you the time and frustration of doing so. It also serves to protect you from an unscrupulous insurance adjuster trying to twist your statement. If you haven’t hired a lawyer, you should notify both the rideshare company and your own insurance provider about the accident. This helps establish a record of the incident.
Florida’s No-Fault Insurance and Its Impact on Rideshare Claims
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system where each driver is required to have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP covers your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, when your injuries are severe and exceed PIP limits, you may be able to pursue additional compensation. Additionally, if you don’t own a vehicle or reside with a family member who does, you may be able to qualify for medical payments coverage under the Uber or Lyft policy.
Take Action Today to Protect Your Rights
When you are involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Tampa, you need to act quickly. Contact Hunter Law today to consult with a rideshare accident lawyer who understands how to handle Florida rideshare cases. We’re here to help you understand your rights, guide you through the legal process, and work toward a resolution that secures your future.