What Happens If My Uber Is In An Accident?

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers | Uber & Lyft Accidents

What Happens If My Uber Is In An Accident?

Uber has become a popular rideshare service in Clearwater, Florida. However, accidents can happen while riding in the back seat. So, what happens if your Uber crashes in an accident? The aftermath can be confusing and stressful. If you or a loved one were injured as a passenger in an Uber, a Clearwater car accident lawyer can help protect your rights.

Causes of Uber Accidents in Clearwater, Florida 

Several factors contribute to Uber accidents in Clearwater. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Distracted Driving: Uber drivers rely on apps for navigation, communication, and ride requests, which can pose a distraction when they are behind the wheel.
  • Fatigue: Many Uber drivers work long hours or drive late at night, increasing the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
  • Speeding: Some drivers may exceed speed limits to complete more rides and earn more money.
  • Inexperience: Some Uber drivers may lack experience driving busy streets or managing ride-sharing demands.

An investigation may be required to determine whether your Uber driver’s negligence contributed to the accident.

What If My Uber Driver Crashes While I’m A Passenger?

You may have the right to seek compensation for injuries sustained while riding in an Uber. Your personal injury claim may be against one or more parties, depending on who was at fault for the accident. Potentially liable parties include:

  • The Uber Driver: You can file a claim against their personal auto insurance or Uber’s insurance policy if your driver’s negligence caused the accident.
  • Another Driver: If another driver is at fault, you can file a claim against them (and their insurance company).
  • Multiple Parties: Fault may be shared among multiple parties, allowing you to seek compensation from more than one source.

A lawyer will investigate the cause of your Uber accident to identify all potentially liable parties. 

Uber’s Insurance Coverage for Riders

Uber provides insurance coverage for drivers and passengers. However, what happens if your Uber driver crashes from an insurance perspective will depend on when the crash occurred:

  •  Offline: Only the driver’s personal insurance policy covers them if an accident occurs while the driver is offline.
  • Online and Waiting for a Ride Request: Uber provides limited coverage if an accident occurs while the driver is logged in but has not accepted a ride. This includes $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
  • En Route to Pick Up or During a Trip: Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage for accidents that occur between the driver accepting a ride and the passenger exiting the vehicle.

Knowing which phase applies to your accident is crucial for determining what Uber insurance coverage may be available. 

Other Options for Compensation

You may have other avenues for compensation in addition to Uber’s insurance coverage. Potential options for compensation also include:

  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Florida is a no-fault state that requires drivers to have PIP coverage on their auto policies. This may cover some medical expenses and lost wages after an Uber accident, regardless of fault.
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): UM/UIM coverage from your auto policy may help cover losses if the at-fault party lacks adequate insurance.

A lawyer will evaluate all the potential sources of compensation in your case.

What Should You Do First After an Uber Accident in Florida?

Taking the right steps after an Uber crash can help protect your personal health and legal rights. If you have been involved in an accident, be sure to:

  • Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
  • Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions for evidence.
  • Obtain contact and insurance details from all drivers involved, including your Uber driver
  • Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
  • Report the accident to Uber. 

A free consultation with a lawyer can help you understand your rights to potential compensation.

Contact the Pinellas County Uber & Lyft Accidents Law Firm Of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers for Help

For more information, please contact the Clearwater and St. Petersburg Uber & Lyft accidents law firm of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve Pinellas County and its surrounding areas:

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater
1875 N Belcher Rd. STE 201,
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 796-8282

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg
2560 1st Ave S,
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 349-1728