Many people rely on rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft for cost-efficient and convenient transportation. However, there is one downside that everyone who gets in a car faces: being injured in an accident. When your rideshare driver is at fault, what happens next? Proving that the driver was “on the clock” is vital to securing compensation from rideshare companies. Our automobile accident lawyers are skilled negotiators and experienced trial attorneys who value building close relationships. We know what to do to help you.
Florida rideshare drivers carry additional insurance, and Lyft and Uber provide coverage that activates when drivers are ready to pick up or are transporting passengers. After an Uber/Lyft/rideshare accident in Sarasota, we can devote our energy and strength to preparing a case that helps injured motorists and passengers move forward. Reach out to Dannheisser Injury Law today to learn more.
Rideshare Insurance
Florida requires rideshare drivers to purchase a special endorsement on their personal insurance. Purchasing gap coverage could enhance Lyft and Uber’s commercial policies. Drivers could also choose a hybrid policy, which combines personal and rideshare coverage.
Rideshare programs operate under a three-phase system. In Phase One, the driver has not accepted a ride but is logged into a rideshare app, like Uber or Lyft. Uber and Lyft provide limited coverage in Phase Two when the driver accepts a ride and is waiting for a passenger. In Phase Three, during transport, Lyft and Uber provide a minimum of $1 million in third-party liability and additional coverage that comes with restrictions. Our skilled Sarasota attorneys can answer any questions regarding Uber/Lyft accidents and what legal options may be available depending on the circumstances of the crash.
Negligence and Rideshare Accidents
The basis of any claim after a motorist collision is proving the negligence of the person who caused it. The injured party’s attorney must show the elements of duty, breach, causation, and injury. Rideshare drivers have a duty to transport passengers safely to their destination. Breaching the duty to drive safely and carefully is not only irresponsible, but it exposes the rideshare passengers to often catastrophic, life-changing injuries.
If the at-fault driver and rideshare company do not agree to an appropriate settlement, we do not hesitate to bring your claim for damages before a jury. Uber and Lyft have historically claimed that the driver is an independent contractor, and they are not responsible for an accident. However, we have been successful in establishing the basis of standard employment because these companies direct their drivers, collect rideshare fees upfront, and provide some insurance for them.
Let Us Advocate for You After a Sarasota Uber/Lyft/Rideshare Car Accident
Many people utilize rideshare companies to get where they need to be with ease. But when a driver acts negligently and you are harmed, you deserve to be reimbursed for your medical bills, lost wages, the pain you are enduring, and the emotional upheaval of reliving the accident.
After Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Sarasota, most people are confused and overwhelmed by the legal system. What do you do when your bills are accumulating but you need to recuperate before returning to work? At Dannheisser Injury Law our team is dedicated to ensuring everyone’s experience with us is soothing and that they know we are here for them after a difficult experience. We give them our personal cell phone numbers so they can call us at any time to discuss their concerns or share an insight. Reach out today for your free consultation to get started.
