Rideshare services like Lyft and Uber have almost replaced taxi cabs and similar services in the past few years. There are a few reasons for this. Rideshare services like these are economical, reliable, and (in most cases) safe.
Unfortunately, accidents can and do still happen. If you are injured in this type of accident, it’s good to get in touch with our legal team at Zimmet & Zimmet. We can review your case and determine how to help you pursue compensation from the at-fault party.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Florida
There are several reasons that rideshare accidents may occur. While this is true, it’s important to realize that they aren’t that different from other vehicle accidents and are often the result of negligence.
Common causes of these accidents include speeding, driving under the influence, driving while fatigued, distracted driving, and more.
Florida Laws for Rideshare Companies
In 2015, House Bill 509 was passed by the Florida House of Representative Highway and Waterway Safety Subcommittee. With this law, it is required that vehicle-for-hire companies meet specific insurance minimums.
With this law, Lyft and Uber must apply for insurance coverage that is in effect when a driver logs into the app until passengers are dropped off. In Florida, the requirements for coverage include:
- $25K for property damage
- $100K for bodily injury and death per incident
- $50K for bodily injury and death per person
Along with the requirements above, additional stipulations were added in 2017. These include:
- The driver or rideshare company, on behalf of the driver, must have insurance coverage that identifies the driver as a TNC and that the vehicle is used for commercial purposes.
- Required coverage for drivers while they are transporting passengers is a minimum of one million death and primary liability insurance. This is also the minimum requirement for limousine users.
Why Do You Need an Attorney After a Rideshare Accident?
There are a few reasons to consider hiring an experienced accident attorney after being involved in a rideshare accident.
Help Negotiating Medical Bills
Our legal services will provide help when it comes to getting your medical costs covered. All auto insurance policies in Florida carry $10K in PIP coverage to make sure you can receive the medical treatment you need without waiting for liability to be determined. We can review your policy after a rideshare accident and ensure you can receive the benefits you are entitled to.
We Understand Complex Rideshare Laws
Our legal team is experienced in handling all types of rideshare accident claims. We can handle your case even though the laws can be complex and confusing. We also understand that these accidents are unique from other accidents and have the resources needed to defend your claim, utilize expert witnesses, and help you recover the compensation you are owed.
What About Passengers in Rideshare Accidents?
If you are a passenger in a rideshare accident, your own insurance policy will probably not provide coverage if you are injured. These policies are not intended to cover injuries that happened while a vehicle was being used for commercial purposes.
While this is true, the insurance from the rideshare company will likely cover your injuries and damages. We can help ensure you get the compensation deserved for your injuries and losses.
Handling an Accident with a Rideshare Vehicle
Any accident that involves a vehicle being used for ridesharing services is confusing. That’s because of the changing laws that are used for these situations. While drivers should be covered and passengers, there is a grey area in the accident that is present when the driver is traveling to pick someone up.
In these situations, the accident victim must file a claim with the driver’s personal insurance company before being able to do so with the rideshare company. In other situations, an injured passenger may have to fight the driver’s insurance or even the contractor to get the compensation deserved.
Since rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors, liability is often hard to understand. We are here to help determine liability and ensure you receive the compensation that you deserve.
Contact Our Legal Team for Help with Your Rideshare Accident
As you can see, more than a few issues may arise when it comes to rideshare accident claims. Because of this, the best thing you can do is to contact us. Our team will get to work right away to help prove your claim and help you secure the compensation you deserve. We are here to help, and you won’t have to fight on your own. We have years of experience with rideshare accident claims and are ready to help with your case. Contact us today to learn more.
