Uber & Rideshare Accident FAQs: What You Need to Know After a Crash in South Florida
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, you may be wondering who pays for your medical bills, how insurance coverage applies, and whether the rideshare company can be held liable. These cases are legally complex and often involve multiple insurance policies and aggressive defense tactics. Below, our Fort Lauderdale rideshare accident lawyers answer the most common questions we receive from injured passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers.
What insurance coverage applies in an Uber or Lyft accident?
Insurance coverage in a rideshare accident depends on what the Uber or Lyft driver was doing at the time of the crash. If the app was off, only the driver’s personal auto policy applies. If the app was on and the driver was waiting for a ride request, limited liability coverage (typically $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident) kicks in. If the driver had accepted a ride or was transporting a passenger, Uber or Lyft’s $1 million commercial insurance policy applies. Navigating this layered insurance structure can be confusing. That’s why it’s essential to work with a Fort Lauderdale Uber accident lawyer who understands Florida’s rideshare laws and can pursue the maximum compensation available.
Who is liable if I’m injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft?
If you're riding in an Uber or Lyft and the driver causes an accident, the rideshare company’s insurance policy will likely cover your injuries. If another driver is at fault, their insurance is typically the primary source of recovery, and Uber or Lyft may provide backup coverage if that driver is uninsured or underinsured. In some cases, liability may be shared between multiple parties. Regardless of fault, Uber and Lyft have strict procedures and claims departments that often delay or deny valid claims. A Fort Lauderdale Lyft accident attorney can protect your rights, communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly for my accident injuries?
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees, to limit their liability. As a result, it is very difficult—but not impossible—to sue Uber or Lyft directly. However, if the company negligently allowed a dangerous driver to operate on its platform—for example, someone with a criminal record or history of reckless driving—you may be able to file a negligent hiring or retention claim. Additionally, if the rideshare app malfunctioned and contributed to the crash, there may be grounds for a product liability claim. Our Fort Lauderdale rideshare accident lawyers thoroughly investigate every possible avenue for recovery.
What happens if I’m hit by a rideshare driver while walking, biking, or driving?
If a rideshare driver strikes you as a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorist, you may be entitled to compensation under the driver’s personal insurance or Uber/Lyft’s commercial policy—depending on the driver’s status on the app. These cases often involve serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord damage. It’s important to get medical attention immediately, collect witness information, and take photos of the scene. Then, contact an Uber accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who can determine the driver’s activity at the time of the crash and identify the available insurance coverage to pursue your claim.
Is there a time limit to file a rideshare accident claim in Florida?
Yes. In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those involving rideshare vehicles, is two years from the date of the accident. This deadline applies whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to recover any damages, no matter how severe your injuries are. It's also important to act quickly to gather evidence, identify all liable parties, and negotiate with insurance companies. At Englander Peebles, our Fort Lauderdale Uber and Lyft accident lawyers ensure your claim is filed properly and on time, while you focus on healing.
Still Have Questions About Your Uber or Rideshare Accident?
Our Fort Lauderdale rideshare accident lawyers are ready to help. Contact Englander Peebles today for a free consultation and guidance on your Uber or Lyft accident case.