Ride-sharing services such as Lyft and Uber have emerged in recent years as popular transportation methods in many cities across Florida and nationwide. Utilized by tourists and locals alike, these companies and their app-based systems provide convenient alternatives to taxis and public transportation. But what happens when ride-share passengers are involved in a crash?
No one ever expects to be the victim of an accident. Unfortunately, ride-share crashes are not uncommon, and passengers can suffer serious and long-lasting injuries. While most users of these apps haven’t considered what they would do if they experienced a ride-share accident, knowing the key steps to take following a crash can be vital in securing full compensation for any damages incurred. An experienced Florida ride-share accident attorney can provide essential information and tips that could be helpful if you are ever injured during a ride-share trip. However, every case is unique, and seeking immediate legal guidance following an accident is highly recommended to safeguard your claim.
Have you been hurt in a ride-share accident? Schedule a case evaluation with our firm today for help.
How Can You Safeguard Your Health and Legal Rights After a Ride-Share Crash?
Severe accidents can happen in a split-second, even if you are traveling with the most conscientious ride-share operator. The aftermath of a collision can be chaotic and confusing, but it’s imperative to remain as calm as possible. Your primary concern should be the well-being of yourself and others involved in the crash. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 for assistance immediately. Move yourself to a safe location out of traffic, if possible, and follow the dispatcher’s instructions until emergency responders arrive. Once any major injuries have been addressed, taking the following actions may benefit future claims.
Contact Police
You should notify local authorities if they have yet to respond to the scene. The police report they generate contains essential information about the accident, those involved, and who they believe was at fault. This document can play a key role in your insurance claims, so make certain you ask an officer how to obtain a copy when it is completed.
Record Details About the Accident, Drivers, and Witnesses
Collect the names and addresses of other motorists involved in the collision and anyone who saw the accident. Get the insurance information of the ride-share driver and others. To preserve evidence, record video and take photos from multiple angles before the accident scene is cleaned up. Snap a picture of the driver’s ride-share app and screenshot your own app to document the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Remember to be safe and vigilant while gathering this information and follow any instructions from law enforcement.
Get a Prompt, Thorough Medical Examination
Even if you believe you were lucky and escaped injuries during the accident, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible for a full examination. The forces involved in a collision are powerful enough to bend metal and shatter glass, so most accident victims do not come through unscathed. Adrenaline can mask the signs of severe injuries, and delayed swelling or internal bleeding can cause major health issues in the hours and days following a crash if left untreated. A prompt visit to the doctor ensures you get the treatment you need to begin healing and provides a record of the injuries that can be essential for your claim.
Consult a Knowledgeable Ride-Share Accident Attorney
The process for recovering damages after a ride-share accident is often complicated. Various insurance companies may be involved, including your PIP coverage provider, the ride-share company’s insurer, and the at-fault driver’s insurer. Determining where to file your claim can be confusing and frustrating, particularly if you are simultaneously attempting to heal from serious injuries. An experienced ride-share accident attorney can investigate your case, calculate a fair settlement amount, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if necessary.
Report Your Accident to the Relevant Insurance Companies
Insurers typically enforce strict notification deadlines following an accident. You may have anywhere from a few days to weeks to inform the involved insurers of your accident. Your lawyer can help protect your claim by ensuring you meet all reporting and filing requirements.
After you report your accident, you will usually be contacted by an insurance adjuster who will ask questions about the incident and your injuries. Adjusters are employed by the insurance companies. While they may be friendly toward you, they do not necessarily have your best interests at heart. You must carefully approach these conversations to avoid inadvertently saying anything that could harm your case. When you enlist the services of a personal injury attorney early in the claims process, they can provide guidance on what you should and should not discuss with a claims adjuster.
How Are Ride-Share Accident Claims Different From Typical Motor Vehicle Accidents?
Although Uber and Lyft accident claims have many similarities to standard car crashes, there are also some key differences. Multiple layers of insurance coverage may be involved depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident and who or what caused the collision. Florida Statutes § 627.748 outlines the responsibilities of ride-share companies. The statute mandates that ride-share companies must maintain these minimum levels of insurance coverage to protect both drivers and passengers:
- When a ride-share driver has logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, the coverage must include $50,000 per person and $100,000 per incident for death and bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage
- Once a ride is accepted, the coverage increases to $1 million for total liability, covering death, bodily injury, and property damage
Florida’s no-fault insurance laws require individuals to first seek compensation through their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. However, the medical costs of an accident can rapidly outstrip the $10,000 in PIP coverage carried by most Florida residents. At this point, the ride-share’s insurance or the policies of the other driver(s) may come into play, providing additional coverage. Having solid evidence can be vital to supporting your claim. An attorney can help you navigate this confusing web of insurance to ensure you get the full compensation you are entitled to.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Ride-share companies must carry substantial insurance policies to comply with state law. While these policies can provide compensation to injured passengers, the companies also employ lawyers and insurance adjusters to protect their bottom line. Your health and future financial stability depend on recovering maximum damages, and your actions following the crash can directly impact your potential settlement. An experienced attorney from Piedra Injury Law can help level the playing field by diligently handling your case and upholding your rights during the complex claims process.
Contact our law firm today at 786-305-3658 to schedule a free case evaluation.
