Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a common way to get around in Florida. But when a rideshare accident happens, the insurance situation can be confusing — and the stakes are high.

Whether you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, a driver or passenger in another vehicle, or a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a rideshare driver, you may have a claim for compensation. But navigating the complex insurance landscape of rideshare accidents requires understanding how these companies' insurance policies work and when they apply.

One of the most confusing aspects of rideshare accident claims is figuring out which insurance policy applies. Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, not employees, which means their personal auto insurance policies may not cover accidents that occur while they are driving for the rideshare company.

Florida law requires rideshare companies to provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the coverage depends on the driver's status at the time of the accident.

When the driver has the app on but has not yet accepted a ride request:

• Uber/Lyft coverage: $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident for bodily injury, $25,000 for property damage
• Driver's personal insurance: May apply if the driver's policy covers rideshare activity

When the driver has accepted a ride request and is on the way to pick up the passenger:

• Uber/Lyft coverage: $1 million in liability coverage

When the passenger is in the vehicle:

• Uber/Lyft coverage: $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

When the driver's app is off, they are not driving for Uber or Lyft, and only their personal auto insurance applies.

If you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft and were injured in an accident, you may have a claim against:

• The rideshare driver (if they were at fault)
• Another driver (if they were at fault)
• Uber or Lyft (through their insurance coverage)

As a passenger, you are generally not considered at fault for the accident, which simplifies the liability analysis.

If you were in another vehicle that was hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, you may have a claim against:

• The rideshare driver
• Uber or Lyft (through their insurance coverage, depending on the driver's status)

If you were a pedestrian or cyclist who was hit by a rideshare driver, you may have a claim against the driver and potentially against Uber or Lyft.

Rideshare drivers frequently use their phones to navigate, communicate with passengers, and manage the app. This creates a significant distraction risk.

Many rideshare drivers work long hours, often driving for multiple platforms. Fatigue can impair judgment and reaction time.

Rideshare drivers may be navigating unfamiliar areas, leading to sudden lane changes, missed turns, or other dangerous maneuvers.

Rideshare drivers may feel pressure to accept as many rides as possible to maximize their earnings, leading to rushed driving and poor decision-making.

1. Call 911 and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
2. Document the scene with photographs and video, including the rideshare vehicle, its license plate, and any damage.
3. Get the driver's information: Name, contact information, driver's license number, and insurance information.
4. Screenshot the app: Take a screenshot of the Uber or Lyft app showing the trip details, including the driver's name and the time of the ride.
5. Get witness information: Names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident.
6. Do not give a statement to the rideshare company's insurance adjusters without legal advice.

1. Seek medical treatment immediately, even if you feel okay.
2. Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through the app.
3. Contact a rideshare accident lawyer as soon as possible.

As described above, the applicable insurance coverage depends on the driver's status at the time of the accident. This can be disputed, particularly in Period 1 cases where the driver's personal insurance may deny coverage.

Uber and Lyft will argue that their drivers are independent contractors, not employees, to limit their liability. While Florida law requires them to provide insurance coverage, they will still look for ways to minimize what they pay.

A rideshare accident may involve multiple insurance companies — the rideshare company's insurer, the driver's personal insurer, and potentially the insurer of another at-fault driver. Coordinating claims among multiple insurers can be complex.

If you are injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to recover:

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages: Income lost while you are unable to work
• Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
• Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle or other property

In Florida, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Do not wait — evidence disappears and witnesses forget details.

Juan Cordero Lawyers has recovered millions of dollars for rideshare accident victims in Florida, including a $2.9 million settlement in a negligent security case involving an Uber rideshare.

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Martin County or anywhere in Florida, Juan Cordero Lawyers can help you navigate the complex insurance landscape and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 305.525.8957 — free consultation, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.