Getting around Gainesville with Uber and Lyft is convenient, but accidents involving rideshare cars can leave you injured and facing unexpected costs. Whether you were a passenger, a pedestrian, or in another vehicle, and they hit you, knowing your rights is key.
Accidents often happen in busy areas like Archer Road, 34th Street, or near the University of Florida. A Gainesville rideshare accident lawyer can explain your legal options and help you get the maximum compensation you deserve.
Who Is Responsible for a Rideshare Accident?
Figuring out who is at fault in a rideshare accident can be tricky. The responsible party could be the rideshare driver, another driver on the road, or even the company itself. Florida’s comparative negligence law means more than one person may share responsibility. If the rideshare driver caused the accident, both their personal insurance and Uber or Lyft’s policy might apply. Understanding who is liable is the first step in filing a claim and getting compensated.
What Insurance Covers a Rideshare Accident?
The type of insurance that applies depends on what the rideshare driver was doing at the time of the crash. Uber and Lyft provide very different levels of coverage based on their drivers’ status.
- Driver was offline: Only their personal auto insurance applies.
- Driver was waiting for a ride request: Uber and Lyft offer limited liability coverage, but it may not be enough to cover all damages.
- Driver had accepted a ride or was transporting a passenger: Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in coverage for injuries, losses, and property damage.
If another driver caused the accident, it’s typically their insurance that should pay for your losses. If they don’t have insurance or enough coverage, your own uninsured motorist policy might help.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Crash
- Call 911: Report the accident and seek medical care.
- Take Photos: Take pictures of the accident, vehicle damage, and any injuries.
- Exchange Information: Get all the contact and insurance details from everyone involved, including witnesses.
- Get a Police Report: This official record can help prove who was at fault.
- See a Doctor: Some injuries don’t show up right away, so get checked out even if you feel fine.
- Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft: Use their app or website to let them know what happened.
- Talk to a Lawyer: A legal expert can handle insurance companies and protect your rights.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
If you were hurt in a rideshare accident, you may be able to get compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. If your injuries require long-term treatment and care or prevent you from earning an income, you could also recover money for future medical expenses and lost income. Property damage, such as car repairs, may also be covered. The compensation you receive depends on the severity of your injuries, what insurance policies apply, and how well your claim is documented.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
Florida law gives you two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long could mean losing your chance to get compensation. However, you should start your insurance claim right away. Evidence, like eyewitness statements and police reports, is easier to collect right after the accident.
When Should You Contact a Lawyer?
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, getting legal advice early on can improve your chances of getting full compensation. Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible, and a lawyer can negotiate for a fair settlement. An attorney can also handle the legal paperwork, investigate the crash, and make sure all deadlines are met. Ride-share companies have legal teams working to protect themselves, so having an experienced lawyer on your side can make a big difference.
Talk to a Gainesville Lawyer About Your Rideshare Accident
Dealing with a rideshare accident can be a scary thought, but you don’t have to go through it alone. A rideshare accident lawyer in Gainesville can help you preserve your rights, gather strong evidence, and negotiate for the compensation you deserve. If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Gainesville, now is the time to seek legal guidance and take action toward securing your future.
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