Rideshare Accidents

The rideshare concept took the country—and the world by storm—back in the early 2010s when Uber and Lyft began operations. Since then, the rideshare market has grown exponentially and is currently valued at approximately $85 billion. However, while Uber and Lyft undoubtedly provide a valuable service to their customers, the increasing number of rideshare accidents is a cause for concern. For example, by some estimates, the number of fatal traffic accidents in a city increases by up to three percent after rideshare companies begin servicing the area. At the Blakeley Law Firm, our Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers have extensive experience helping drivers and passengers injured in rideshare accidents recover fair compensation for everything they’ve been through.

Schedule a free consultation today by calling (800) 602-5000.

Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate throughout South Florida, including in Fort Lauderdale. Passengers flying into and out of Fort Lauderdale / Hollywood International Airport can also catch a rideshare to or from the airport.

The rideshare concept is unquestionably a great idea, as it provides a more flexible means of transportation to customers and may even decrease the number of drunk driving accidents. At the same time, driving for Uber or Lyft is an easy way to earn extra cash. However, rideshare companies do little to ensure the quality of their drivers. Other than conducting a criminal background check and reviewing an applicant’s driving history, both Uber and Lyft allow pretty much anyone over 25 to drive for the company. However, there is no requirement that drivers have significant driving experience, meaning driver inexperience is a real concern.

Additionally, the nature of rideshare driving raises additional risks. For example, Uber and Lyft drivers often work “day jobs” before driving for either company. And both companies frequently offer promotions where drivers will earn extra money for completing a certain number of rides. Thus, it is common for rideshare drivers to become drowsy, which also increases the chance of an accident.

Yes and no. Those who have been injured in a rideshare accident can file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurance policy which, if successful, will pay for the victim’s damages. However, not all rideshare accidents are treated the same. For example, Florida law requires all rideshare companies to carry a $1 million policy that covers accidents occurring during a prearranged ride. However, if a driver is not on a prearranged ride, state law only requires a policy limit of $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident.

For example, if a rideshare driver causes a multi-vehicle collision while transporting a passenger, the company’s $1 million policy kicks in. However, the $1 million must be used to cover the costs of all victims’ damages, meaning if there are multiple accident victims, the policy max may be insufficient.

On the other hand, if an Uber driver causes a pedestrian accident while they are waiting for a ride request to come in, the pedestrian will be limited to $25,000 under the secondary policy. Of course, the pedestrian may also file a claim with the rideshare driver’s personal insurance policy, provided they have one and that it covers rideshare accidents.

Undoubtedly, one of the most complex aspects of rideshare accident cases is the availability of insurance coverage. For this reason, anyone injured in a Fort Lauderdale Uber accident or Lyft accident should consult with an experienced attorney to ensure their claim receives the attention it deserves.

If you were injured in a rideshare accident—either as a passenger, rideshare driver, or the driver of another vehicle—you may be entitled to compensation through the rideshare company’s insurance policy. However, navigating these claims is often complex. Insurance companies know this and use it to their advantage. Rather than take on the insurance company alone, the better option is to enlist the help of the Blakeley Law Firm. At the Blakeley Law Firm, we have decades of hands-on experience dealing with some of the largest and most well-funded insurance companies in the country. We understand what it takes to secure favorable damages awards on behalf of our clients and are prepared to do everything possible to ensure you are made whole. To learn more, and to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today, call (800) 602-5000. You can also reach us through our online contact form. We have offices conveniently located in Fort Lauderdale, Miami Gardens, West Palm Beach and Jacksonville.