Does Uber/Lyft Compensate for Accidents?

It’s no secret that Uber and Lyft are popular ride-hailing services that simplify catching a ride. While usually considered a safer mode of transportation, these companies have faced criticism over the welfare of their drivers and passengers.

Although both Uber & Lyft may potentially compensate you for an auto accident, they can frequently undercompensate victims in a frustrating process that is difficult to navigate without a competent personal injury lawyer.

Our injury attorneys discuss what should you do if you’re injured in a rideshare accident?

Accidents on the Rise

One of the main reasons people use ride sharing apps is to be insulated from the risks of driving drunk. And thankfully, these services have significantly reduced the number of drunk drivers getting behind the wheel. But with the rise in the popularity of Uber and Lyft, there’s been an estimated 3% increase in motor vehicle fatalities associated with ride-hailing services. And at least 50 people have been killed while gig driving since 2017.

If You’re an Uber or Lyft Passenger

Uber’s insurance policy covers any accident that happens while an Uber driver has the app open. You could be compensated up to $1 million for injuries and financial loss. Lyft’s insurance policy may also provide up to $1 million in coverage through either uninsured motorist coverage or third-party liability coverage.

While you may be reimbursed for most of your financial losses by Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance policies, you may need additional compensation from another party’s insurance company.

Uber and Lyft’s insurance covers victims in accidents however, you may need additional compensation. Unsure? The injury attorneys at Mickey Keenan can help.

If You’re a Pedestrian

Fortunately, the Uber and Lyft insurance policies that compensate victims up to $1 million extend to people who are not in the car. If an Uber or Lyft driver has the app open when they hit a pedestrian, regardless of whether or not they had a passenger in the vehicle, the pedestrian may seek compensation.

If you are walking, jogging, or bicycling where you have the right of way, then you retain the rights of protection against accidents. If a pedestrian is hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, they are typically victims with all rights to damages owed.

If you or someone you know has been a victim in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, give the attorneys at Mickey Keenan a call today to go over the details for your case.

Related > Choosing an Injury Lawyer: What to Ask

If The Driver Is Off Duty

Uber’s and Lyft’s insurance policies don’t include compensation for accidents that occur while one of their drivers crashes and the app is not active on the driver’s phone. Even if the driver is totally at fault (though Florida is considered a ‘no-fault’ state) neither Uber nor Lyft will compensate victims for their injuries or other financial losses.

Instead, the injured party must seek compensation directly from the driver or the driver’s auto insurance. Additionally, you may still be able to receive compensation from your own insurance policy if you were injured by an off-duty Uber or Lyft driver who is uninsured or under insured, or even through a personal injury lawsuit.

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Compensation Challenges from Rideshare Companies

Suppose you are the victim of an Uber or Lyft accident. In that case, it is your responsibility to gather and show evidence of the crash and injuries to convince Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance companies to compensate you sufficiently to pay damages for your losses. Accomplishing this on your own while dealing with injuries is difficult, if not impossible.

Florida law presently gives you a limited time after a rideshare crash to demand payment. Per Florida Statute § 95.11, four years is the maximum amount of time from the date of the collision you can pursue compensation. So, you must contact an experienced personal injury attorney immediately after an Uber or Lyft crash.

Get the Compensation You Deserve from Uber/Lyft

You called a ride, and you got hurt. We’re here to make you whole again. After all, to us, you’re like family.

If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer knowledgeable about Uber and Lyft insurance policies. This will help you understand the options and obstacles you may face when seeking the compensation you rightly deserve.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your case. Our injury specialists at Mickey Keenan, P.A. are available 24/7 to discuss your case.