Florida Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Trusted Legal Help After an Uber or Lyft Crash in Florida

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how people travel across Florida. Whether commuting to work, heading to the airport, or enjoying a night out, passengers and drivers alike rely on these platforms for convenience and affordability. But when accidents happen, navigating the legal aftermath can be far more complicated than with a typical car crash.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident—whether as a passenger, driver, pedestrian, or another motorist—you need an experienced Florida rideshare accident attorney to protect your rights. At Burnetti, P.A., we help clients across Florida understand their options, file claims, and pursue the full compensation they’re owed.

Call (888) 444-8508or contact us onlinetoday for a free consultation with a skilled Florida Uber & Lyft accident attorney. We serve clients in Clearwater, St Petersburg, Tampa, Brandon, Lakeland, and the surrounding areas

Rideshare Laws in Florida

Florida law considers rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to be Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). These companies are regulated under Florida Statute § 627.748, which outlines insurance requirements and driver standards.

Some key aspects of Florida rideshare laws include:

• Background Checks: Drivers must pass criminal background and driving history checks.
• Zero Tolerance: TNCs must implement a zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol.
• Insurance Coverage Requirements: The level of insurance that applies depends on what stage the driver is in during the accident (explained further below).
• Auto Insurance Hierarchy: In a rideshare crash, the applicable insurance depends on the driver’s status at the time of the incident—logged off, waiting for a ride, or transporting a passenger.

Navigating these rules can be complex, especially when multiple insurers are involved. That’s why working with a Florida rideshare accident attorney is critical to ensure you're not unfairly denied compensation.

Who is Liable for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Liability in an Uber or Lyft accident depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. Florida law splits liability into three time periods:

Driver is Logged Off the App

If the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app when the accident occurs, the rideshare company is not responsible for the crash. The driver is treated like any other private motorist, and their personal auto insurance policy is the only coverage available.

Victims must pursue compensation from the driver’s insurance carrier, which may involve standard liability limits and potential coverage issues.

Driver is Logged On But Has Not Accepted a Ride Request

When a driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage:

• $50,000 for bodily injury per person
• $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

This coverage acts as secondary insurance, meaning it only applies if the driver’s personal insurance refuses coverage or is insufficient. Victims may need legal help to determine whether both the driver’s and the company’s policies apply.

Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Is Transporting a Passenger

Once the driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger in the car, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in commercial liability coverage. This includes:

• $1 million in third-party liability coverage
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage in most cases
• Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (for drivers)

This is the highest level of protection available in rideshare accidents and applies until the passenger is dropped off or the ride is canceled. Victims can often pursue claims through Uber or Lyft’s insurance provider, though these claims may be contested or delayed without strong legal representation.

Florida Uber & Lyft Accident Claims FAQs

What should I do after a rideshare accident in Florida?

Seek medical attention immediately, report the accident to law enforcement, take photos of the scene, and get contact and insurance information from all parties. If you're a passenger, report the crash to Uber or Lyft through the app. Then, consult a Florida rideshare accident lawyer for legal guidance.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?

In most cases, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This limits the company's direct liability. However, you can file a claim against their insurance policy depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

What if I was a pedestrian or cyclist hit by an Uber or Lyft?

You may still be entitled to compensation through the rideshare company’s insurance, depending on whether the driver was logged into the app or actively transporting a passenger.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, insurance claims must be filed much sooner, often within days or weeks. Speak to an attorney as soon as possible.

What damages can I recover?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future treatment, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. In some cases, punitive damages may also apply.

Why You Need a Florida Uber & Lyft Accident Attorney

Rideshare accident claims are often more complex than typical car crashes. They may involve:

• Multiple insurance policies
• Complicated coverage layers
• Disputes between personal and commercial insurers
• Pressures from corporate legal teams
• Confusing app-based driver logs

At Burnetti, P.A., our Florida rideshare accident attorneys understand the unique challenges victims face after an Uber or Lyft crash. We’ll help you gather evidence, determine liability, deal with insurance companies, and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.

We’ve handled countless accident claims across Florida, and we fight aggressively to hold negligent drivers and corporations accountable.

Contact us by calling (888) 444-8508to schedule a free consultation today.