561-338-0420
Today, ridesharing apps are popular more than ever, with millions of users. Tourists and locals of Florida alike use Uber or Lyft to get around the different cities of the state. Unfortunately, an Uber or Lyft crash can occur in the same way as any other motor vehicle accident, and both drivers and passengers are no safer than any other type of driver.
Today, ridesharing apps are popular more than ever, with millions of users. Tourists and locals of Florida alike use Uber or Lyft to get around the different cities of the state. Unfortunately, an Uber or Lyft crash can occur in the same way as any other motor vehicle accident, and both drivers and passengers are no safer than any other type of driver.If you or someone you love has been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, there are legal processes that can follow. These include determining liability and seeking compensation that you may be entitled to. The Florida rideshare accident lawyers at Eltringham Law Group can help you navigate through this legal process.
Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents
There are various causes of Uber and Lyft accidents in Florida. Sometimes, they can be due to the negligence of the rideshare driver, like driving under the influence or driving distracted. In other cases, a mechanical problem with the rideshare vehicle can be the cause. Other drivers on the road can engage in negligent behavior that can cause Uber and Lyft accidents.
Requirements to Drive for Uber & Lyft
Both companies conduct a comprehensive background check on all drivers, including their criminal background and driving record. If a driver who is contracted with Uber or Lyft is arrested or receives a certain type of traffic violation, they may be removed from the rideshare schedule.
A few examples of driving citations that can lead to drivers losing their status include reckless driving, driving under the influence, and driving while intoxicated.
Some requirements to drive for Uber and Lyft in Florida include:
- A minimum of three years of licensed driving experience (Uber) and one year of licensed driving (Lyft)
- Must furnish a driver’s license, copies of insurance, and vehicle registration
- Being at least 23 years old to drive with Uber and 21 to drive with Lyft
- Passing a background check
- All vehicles must have current Florida tags and registration
Criminal charges and serious traffic violations will result in the driver being removed from both services immediately.
What To Do After an Accident in an Uber or Lyft
After an Uber or Lyft accident, taking the right steps can impact whether you receive adequate compensation for your injuries or not. Five steps that you should take after you are involved in a rideshare accident include:
Report the Lyft or Uber accident to law enforcement
Contacting law enforcement after your accident enables the police to come and investigate the accident thoroughly and create an official record. This record will help support your claim.
Report the crash to Uber or Lyft
Report the crash to Uber or LyftTo report a rideshare accident, navigate to the “Trip Issues” section of either app. Reporting the accident to Uber or Lyft will allow you to benefit from their insurance policy.
However, you will want to be careful of what you say to the rideshare representative. It may be a better idea to let our florida rideshare accident lawyers talk to the representative instead of you.
Document the accident scene and the driver
Take photographs of the accident scene. The accident scene can change a lot while you wait for law enforcement to arrive, so it is better for you to take the photos as soon as possible. Speak with and gather information about any witnesses of the accident so that your attorney can speak with them.
Request the other driver’s information, such as their insurance information and driver’s license.
Seek medical attention
Whether you have sustained a serious injury or not, it is important that you seek medical attention to examine you and determine the extent of your injuries. This can help avoid any future complications.
For instance, shock and adrenaline from an accident can sometimes mask pain. If you delay receiving medical care, the insurance company could potentially hold that against you.
Contact an Uber or Lyft accident lawyer
Our professional rideshare accident attorneys in Florida can help you pursue compensation for your injuries while you focus on your recovery.
Contact Our Experienced Florida Rideshare Accident Lawyers To Schedule Your Free Consultation
While rideshare accidents are not as common as private vehicle accidents, they still occur. If you have sustained injuries in a rideshare accident, it is essential that you seek professional legal representation right away from the Eltringham Law Group. Contact our Florida rideshare accident lawyers today to schedule your free consultation!
Uber & Lyft Accident Frequently Asked Questions
Who is liable for injuries sustained in an Uber or Lyft accident in Florida?
If you sustain injuries in a rideshare accident that occurred because of the negligence of an Uber or Lyft driver, they will face liability. If the Uber or Lyft driver sustains injuries in a rideshare accident because of another at-fault driver, they will have the ability to file a claim against the driver.
Can an Uber or Lyft driver be fired for filing a rideshare crash claim?
Rideshare drivers cannot be penalized or fired for filing valid claims under their rideshare company’s insurance policy.
Is evidence required in a Lyft or Uber accident case?
Like with any type of auto accident, rideshare accidents will require evidence to prove fault and liability in a case. Fortunately, both Lyft and Uber keep GPS and electronic records of where their drivers travel while they are logged in. Also, most drivers have dash cams inside their vehicles.
