Florida Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Uber & Lyft Injury Claims in Florida

When you’re injured in a rideshare accident, determining liability and navigating insurance claims becomes significantly more complex than traditional car accident cases. Whether you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, a driver hit by a rideshare vehicle, or a rideshare driver yourself, Jones Law Group has the specialized knowledge to handle these unique cases. Our Florida rideshare accident attorneys have successfully recovered millions in compensation for clients injured in transportation network company (TNC) accidents throughout Orlando, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, and across the state.

Immediate Steps After a Rideshare Accident in Florida

Time is critical after any accident involving Uber, Lyft, or other transportation network companies. The actions you take in the first hours can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Follow these essential steps:

1. Call 911 immediately – Get police and medical responders to the scene, even if injuries seem minor. The official accident report is crucial evidence.

2. Document everything – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, the scene, and crucially, screenshot the rideshare app showing the driver’s information, trip details, and the ride status.

3. Identify the driver’s status – Determine if the driver was actively transporting a passenger, en route to pick up a passenger, or simply had the app on. This determines which insurance coverage applies.

4. Get driver and company information – Obtain the driver’s name, Uber/Lyft account details, and their personal insurance information.

5. Collect witness information – Rideshare accident cases often involve complex liability questions. Witness statements can be invaluable.

6. Seek immediate medical attention – Even if you feel fine, see a doctor within 24 hours. Some injuries manifest later, and gaps in treatment hurt your claim.

7. Report the accident through the app – File an incident report through the Uber or Lyft app to create an official record with the company.

8. Contact a Florida rideshare accident lawyer before giving statements – Insurance adjusters for Uber and Lyft are trained to minimize payouts. Call Jones Law Group at (727)571-1333 before discussing your claim with any insurance company.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage in Florida

The complexity of rideshare accident claims stems from the multiple layers of insurance coverage that apply depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Florida’s insurance requirements for transportation network companies create a tiered system:

Period 0: App Off

When a rideshare driver’s app is turned off, only their personal auto insurance applies. Many personal policies exclude coverage for commercial activities, leaving victims to pursue the driver’s often minimal personal coverage.

Period 1: App On, Waiting for a Ride Request

When the driver has the app on but hasn’t accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage:

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

This coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance denies the claim.

Period 2: Driver Accepted Request, En Route to Passenger

Once a driver accepts a ride request and is traveling to pick up the passenger, significantly higher coverage kicks in:

• $1 million liability coverage
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
• Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage

Period 3: Passenger in Vehicle

From pickup to drop-off, the full $1 million policy applies, providing maximum protection for passengers and third parties injured by the rideshare driver’s negligence.

Understanding which period applies to your accident is crucial to identifying available insurance coverage and maximizing your compensation. Our Florida rideshare accident attorneys immediately investigate the driver’s app status and secure this critical evidence before rideshare companies can obscure the facts.

Types of Rideshare Accident Cases We Handle Across Florida

Jones Law Group represents victims in all types of rideshare-related accidents throughout Florida, from the Panhandle to South Florida:

Passenger Injuries in Uber or Lyft Vehicles

If you were injured while riding as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you’re typically covered by the $1 million policy regardless of which driver caused the accident. We pursue claims against all negligent parties, including the rideshare driver, other motorists, and the rideshare company when applicable.

Accidents Caused by Rideshare Drivers

When an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident that injures occupants of other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists, determining coverage depends on the driver’s status. Our attorneys immediately secure evidence of app activity and pursue the maximum available coverage.

Rideshare Drivers Injured by Other Motorists

Rideshare drivers injured by negligent third parties while transporting passengers or en route to pickups can access the $1 million uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage provided by Uber and Lyft, in addition to pursuing claims against the at-fault driver.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents Involving Rideshare Vehicles

Florida’s popular pedestrian areas—from Miami Beach to downtown Orlando to Tampa’s Riverwalk—see frequent pedestrian and bicycle accidents involving rideshare vehicles. These cases require immediate action to preserve app data and witness statements.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents Involving Rideshares

When rideshare vehicles are involved in complex multi-car accidents on I-4, I-95, the Turnpike, or busy Florida intersections, determining liability requires thorough accident reconstruction and analysis of all drivers’ actions.

Accidents During Pickup or Drop-off

Passengers injured while entering or exiting rideshare vehicles—particularly in high-traffic areas like Miami’s Brickell Avenue, Orlando’s International Drive, or Tampa’s Channelside—are covered under the active trip $1 million policy.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

The severity of rideshare accident injuries ranges from minor to catastrophic. Jones Law Group has represented clients suffering from:

• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Back and neck injuries, including herniated discs
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Lacerations and scarring
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Psychological trauma and PTSD

Many rideshare accidents occur in urban areas at moderate speeds, but the injuries can still be severe and life-altering. Others involve high-speed collisions on Florida’s highways and interstates. Regardless of the severity of your injuries, you deserve full compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.

Challenges Unique to Rideshare Accident Claims

Rideshare accident cases present obstacles that don’t exist in typical car accident claims:

Corporate Claim Denial Tactics – Uber and Lyft are billion-dollar corporations with legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts. They may argue the driver was not actively using the app, claim the driver was an independent contractor (not an employee), or dispute the severity of your injuries.

Multiple Insurance Policies – Determining which insurance policy applies requires understanding the driver’s status and navigating multiple insurers who each try to shift liability to the other.

Disappearing Evidence – App data, GPS tracking, and driver history can disappear if not preserved immediately through legal channels. Rideshare companies control this evidence.

Independent Contractor Status – Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors to limit their liability. However, Florida law still holds them accountable for providing insurance coverage during active trips.

Underinsured Rideshare Drivers – Many rideshare drivers carry only minimum personal insurance, and their policies often exclude commercial activities, making access to the rideshare company’s insurance essential.

Complex Liability Questions – Was the driver distracted by the app? Was the vehicle properly maintained? Did the rideshare company negligently approve an unsafe driver? These questions require deep investigation.

Our Florida rideshare accident lawyers have handled these challenges hundreds of times and know how to overcome every obstacle rideshare companies place in your path to compensation.

How Much Is My Rideshare Accident Claim Worth in Florida?

The value of your rideshare accident claim depends on multiple factors unique to your situation:

Economic Damages:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Property damage to your vehicle
• Assistive devices and home modifications

Non-Economic Damages:

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of consortium (for family members)

Factors Affecting Claim Value:

• Severity and permanence of your injuries
• Impact on your ability to work and earn income
• Amount of available insurance coverage
• Strength of liability evidence
• Quality of medical documentation
• Whether you share any fault (Florida’s comparative negligence rule)

While every case is unique, Jones Law Group has recovered substantial settlements and verdicts for rideshare accident victims, including six and seven-figure recoveries in severe injury cases where the full $1 million policy was accessed. We don’t accept lowball settlement offers—we fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Initial consultations are completely free, and we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.

The Rideshare Accident Claim Process in Florida

Understanding the legal process helps set realistic expectations for your case:

1. Free Case Evaluation (Week 1) Contact Jones Law Group at (727)571-1333 for your free consultation. We review the accident details, assess available insurance coverage, and explain your legal options with no obligation.

2. Evidence Preservation (Weeks 1-2) We immediately send preservation letters to Uber, Lyft, the driver, and all insurance companies, securing app data, GPS information, driver history, and vehicle maintenance records before evidence disappears.

3. Medical Treatment and Documentation (Ongoing) While you focus on recovery, we coordinate with your medical providers, ensure you receive necessary treatment, and build comprehensive documentation of your injuries and prognosis.

4. Insurance Claims and Negotiation (Months 1-3) We file claims with all applicable insurance carriers, handle all communications with adjusters, and negotiate for maximum compensation. Many cases settle during this phase.

5. Litigation if Necessary (Months 3-12+) If insurance companies refuse to offer fair compensation, we file a lawsuit and take your case to court. Our trial experience motivates insurers to settle favorably, but we’re always prepared to present your case to a jury.

6. Settlement or Trial (Variable) Most rideshare accident cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation ensures you receive maximum compensation whether through settlement or verdict.

Throughout this process, you have 24/7 access to your attorney and case updates. We handle all legal complexities while you focus on healing.

Why Choose Jones Law Group for Your Florida Rideshare Accident Case

When major corporations and their insurance companies try to minimize your claim, you need attorneys with the resources, experience, and determination to fight back:

Specialized Rideshare Accident Experience – Unlike general practice attorneys, we have specific experience handling the unique complexities of Uber, Lyft, and other TNC accidents. We understand the insurance structures, corporate tactics, and legal strategies that maximize recovery.

Over $500 Million Recovered – Our track record speaks to our ability to secure substantial compensation for injured clients. We have the experience and resources to take on billion-dollar corporations.

No Fees Unless We Win – You pay nothing upfront and nothing throughout your case. We only collect attorney fees if we recover compensation for you, and our fees come from the settlement or verdict—never from your pocket.

Immediate Action – Rideshare evidence disappears quickly. We spring into action immediately, preserving critical app data, GPS information, and witness statements before they’re lost forever.

Statewide Representation – Based in St. Petersburg with experience handling cases throughout Florida, we understand state laws, local courts, and the unique factors affecting rideshare accidents in Orlando’s tourism districts, Miami’s urban corridors, Tampa’s metropolitan area, and everywhere in between.

Trial-Ready Approach – Insurance companies settle cases fairly when they know you have attorneys willing and able to take them to trial. Our courtroom success rate motivates favorable settlements.

Personalized Attention – You’re not a case number. Attorney Bobby Jones and our team provide direct access and personalized attention throughout your case. You’ll have our cell phone numbers and can reach us 24/7.

Transparent Communication – We explain everything in plain English, keep you updated on every development, and ensure you understand your options at every decision point.

Comprehensive Case Development – We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, economists, and vocational specialists to build the strongest possible case for maximum compensation.

Rideshare Safety Concerns in Major Florida Markets

Florida’s major metropolitan areas have seen explosive growth in rideshare usage, particularly in high-density tourism and entertainment districts. This increased usage has unfortunately led to more accidents across the state.

High-Risk Areas for Florida Rideshare Accidents:

Orlando:

• International Drive tourism corridor
• Disney World, Universal, and theme park areas
• Downtown Orlando and Church Street entertainment district
• Orlando International Airport pickup/drop-off zones
• I-4 corridor and major highway interchanges

Miami & South Florida:

• Miami Beach and Collins Avenue
• Brickell Avenue and downtown Miami
• Wynwood, Design District, and South Beach nightlife areas
• Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale Airport
• I-95, Florida’s Turnpike, and Palmetto Expressway

Tampa Bay:

• Ybor City nightlife district
• Downtown Tampa and Channelside
• Tampa International Airport
• I-275 and Howard Frankland Bridge
• St. Petersburg downtown and beach areas

Jacksonville:

• Downtown Jacksonville and the Riverwalk
• Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach
• Jacksonville International Airport
• I-95 and I-295 corridors

Contributing Factors to Rideshare Accidents:

• Driver distraction from app navigation and ride requests
• Fatigue from drivers working excessive hours across multiple platforms
• Inadequate driver screening and training
• Unsafe vehicles that aren’t properly maintained
• Sudden stops and lane changes for pickups/drop-offs
• Unfamiliarity with local roads, especially in tourism-heavy areas
• Driving during high-traffic periods in complex urban environments
• Tourist-heavy traffic patterns creating unpredictable conditions

Florida law requires rideshare companies to conduct background checks and maintain certain insurance coverage, but these requirements don’t prevent all accidents. When negligence causes your injuries, Jones Law Group holds all responsible parties accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents in Florida

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly if their driver caused my accident?

While Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors to limit direct liability, you can access their $1 million insurance policy when the driver was on an active trip. In some cases involving negligent driver approval, vehicle safety issues, or app design problems, direct claims against the company may be possible. Our attorneys analyze every potential avenue for compensation.

What if the rideshare driver wasn’t at fault for my accident?

If another driver caused the accident while you were in an Uber or Lyft (or if you’re a rideshare driver hit by someone else), you can still recover compensation. You can file claims against the at-fault driver’s insurance and access the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance.

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in Florida?

Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the accident date, but there are exceptions. More importantly, evidence preservation must happen immediately—app data and GPS information can be deleted within days. Contact Jones Law Group at (727)571-1333 as soon as possible after your accident.

Will my personal health insurance cover my rideshare accident injuries?

Your health insurance may cover initial treatment, but they’ll likely seek reimbursement from any settlement you receive (subrogation). We negotiate to minimize health insurance liens and maximize your net recovery. The goal is to access the rideshare insurance coverage so you’re not depleting your personal insurance.

What if I was injured while driving for Uber or Lyft?

If you’re a rideshare driver injured by another motorist while on a trip or en route to a pickup, you can access Uber or Lyft’s $1 million uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in addition to pursuing the at-fault driver’s insurance. If you were injured during an off-app accident, your personal insurance applies (though commercial exclusions may limit coverage).

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule—you can recover compensation even if you were partially at fault, as long as you’re not more than 50% responsible. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you’d recover $80,000. Insurance companies often exaggerate your fault to reduce payouts. Our attorneys protect you from unfair fault allocation.

Do I need a lawyer for a minor rideshare accident injury?

Even seemingly minor injuries can develop into serious conditions requiring ongoing treatment. Insurance companies routinely undervalue claims, and rideshare cases involve complex coverage questions. Most attorneys, including Jones Law Group, offer free consultations—there’s no risk in getting professional legal advice about your rights and options.

Contact a Florida Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, Lyft accident, or any transportation network company incident anywhere in Florida—from Orlando to Miami, Tampa to Jacksonville, or anywhere in between—time is critical. Evidence disappears, insurance companies start building their defense, and your rights to compensation can be compromised by delays.

Jones Law Group offers immediate free consultations to rideshare accident victims throughout Florida. Attorney Bobby Jones and our experienced legal team are ready to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Call (727)571-1333 now for your free case evaluation.

You can also reach us at [email protected] or visit our office at 5622 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, Florida 33707. We represent clients statewide.

Don’t face billion-dollar corporations and their insurance companies alone. Get experienced legal representation fighting for your rights. Remember: You pay nothing unless we win your case.