Rideshare Accidents Are More Common Than You Think
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made getting around more convenient than ever, especially in busy cities like Tallahassee and across Florida. But accidents can and do happen, and knowing what to do next is critical if you’re a passenger during a rideshare accident.
At Scott & Wallace Law, we help injured passengers understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. Here’s what the passenger in an Uber or Lyft Accident should know.
Who Is Liable After an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Florida law requires Uber and Lyft to carry substantial insurance coverage. But who pays depends on who caused the accident:
- If the rideshare driver was at fault, Uber or Lyft’s insurance typically covers passengers, with up to $1 million in liability coverage.
- If another driver was at fault, their auto insurance is usually primary, but Uber or Lyft’s insurance may cover gaps if needed.
- If it’s unclear who was at fault, Uber or Lyft’s policy often kicks in to ensure the protection of injured passengers.
Determining liability isn’t always simple. That’s why consulting with an experienced rideshare accident attorney is essential.
What Damages Can You Recover?
As a passenger, you have the right to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages (if the injury prevents you from working)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Other out-of-pocket expenses
Scott & Wallace Law can help calculate the true value of your claim and ensure you aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement.
What Steps Should You Take Immediately After the Accident?
Your health and safety come first. After ensuring you’re safe, follow these steps:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
- Document everything — take photos, record the rideshare app details, and gather witness information.
- Notify Uber or Lyft through the app.
- Consult a rideshare accident attorney before speaking to any insurance companies.
Why You Need an Experienced Florida Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Rideshare accidents are different from regular car accidents. Multiple layers of insurance, corporate legal teams, and complex liability questions are involved.
At Scott & Wallace Law, we have years of experience helping rideshare accident victims throughout Tallahassee and North Florida. Our legal team is prepared to fight aggressively to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you need.
Rideshare Accident Statistics (2017–2022)
- Fatal Crashes Involving Uber (2017–2018): Uber vehicles were involved in 97 fatal crashes, resulting in 107 deaths. Of these fatalities, 21% were riders, 21% were drivers, and 58% were third parties.
- Fatal Crashes Involving Lyft (2017–2018): Lyft reported 97 fatal crashes during the same period, with a similar distribution of victims: 21% riders, 21% drivers, and 58% third parties.
- Increase in Motor Vehicle Fatalities (2020–2022): Lyft’s safety report indicates an uptick in motor vehicle fatalities and fatal physical assaults compared to the 2017–2019, aligning with broader national trends.
- Overall Impact on Traffic Fatalities: Research suggests that the introduction of rideshare services has contributed to a 3% increase in traffic-related deaths in the U.S., equating to approximately 987 additional fatalities annually.
Rideshare Usage and Safety Metrics
- Trip Volume: Between 2021 and 2022, Uber completed approximately 1.8 billion trips in the U.S., averaging about 30 rides every second. Bankrate
- Safety Incident Rates:
- Uber: 99.9% of trips concluded without any safety-related issues.
- Lyft: reported that safety incidents occurred in only 0.0002% of rides.
- Driver Crash Involvement: A study from the University of Illinois Chicago found that one-third of rideshare drivers reported being involved in a crash while working. Factors contributing to these incidents included cellphone use, driver fatigue, and navigating unfamiliar roads. UIC Today
No fees unless we win — let us handle the legal battle while you focus on recovery.
Contact Scott & Wallace Law Today
If you or a loved one was injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident in Florida, don’t leave your recovery to chance. Contact Scott & Wallace Law today for a free consultation and let our team help you navigate this complex situation.
*Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. While we strive to offer accurate and helpful information regarding personal injury claims in Florida, each case is unique, and specific legal advice can only be provided by a qualified attorney familiar with the details of your situation. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship with Scott & Wallace. If you have been injured, we encourage you to consult with a licensed attorney to discuss your rights and legal options.
