What Liability Factors Are Considered After a FL Rideshare Accident?
The increase in rideshare vehicles on Florida roads means accidents involving these services have become more common. When a rideshare collision occurs, determining liability can be more complicated because multiple parties may be involved. Work with an experienced Boca Raton personal injury lawyer to determine who is responsible for your injuries and accident expenses.
The Rideshare Driver’s Status at the Time of the Accident
A critical factor in determining liability is whether the rideshare driver was actively engaged in their work duties at the time of the accident. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but this coverage varies based on the driver’s status when the accident occurs.
- Not logged into the app. If the driver is not logged into the rideshare app when the accident occurs, they are treated as any other private driver. In this case, the driver’s personal auto insurance would be responsible for covering damages.
- Logged into the app, but no passenger. When a driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company’s limited liability insurance may come into play. Typically, this includes liability coverage for injuries to third parties, but the amount of coverage is often less than when a passenger is in the vehicle.
- Driver en route to pick up a passenger or transporting a passenger: When the driver is actively transporting a passenger or on the way to pick one up, Uber or Lyft higher insurance coverage kicks in. This coverage can provide up to $1 million in liability.
These different levels of coverage are in place because while rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, they still provide insurance coverage for accidents involving their drivers under certain conditions. That said, proving the company’s liability can be challenging.
Involvement of Other Drivers and Confusion Over Liability
Liability may also extend to other drivers involved in the collision. For instance, if another driver caused the accident by running a red light, they could be held liable for your injuries. In some cases, poor road conditions, vehicle defects, or even the actions of a pedestrian may play a role in the accident.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, determining liability can be tricky, but attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez can help you navigate the legal process,
Rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurance policies, which can lead to confusion over who is responsible for covering damages. The rideshare driver’s personal insurance, the rideshare company’s coverage, and other drivers’ policies may all be relevant, depending on the circumstances of the crash.
By handling negotiations with insurance companies and gathering the necessary evidence, a Boca Raton personal injury lawyer works to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation. Talented attorneys are available to fight for the settlement you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How will you access the financial relief you need after an Uber or Lyft accident? If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, determining liability can be tricky, but attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez can help you navigate the legal process, clarify the roles of all involved parties, and secure the financial relief you need. Call 561-660-9421 to schedule a confidential consultation.
