Uber and Lyft Accident Claims for Injured Passengers in Miami

Miami’s lively atmosphere, from South Beach to Downtown, makes Uber and Lyft indispensable for locals and tourists alike. Yet, the city’s congested roads and heavy traffic increase the likelihood of Uber and Lyft accidents, leaving passengers vulnerable to injuries ranging from whiplash to fractures. As a passenger, you have unique legal protections under Florida law, including access to substantial insurance coverage and the advantage of typically bearing no fault. However, rideshare passenger claims can be daunting due to complex insurance policies and the need for swift action.

At Wolfson & Leon, a Miami-based personal injury firm with over 60 years of experience, we specialize in helping injured passengers secure the compensation they deserve. This guide outlines the critical steps to take, available insurance options, passenger advantages, and how our personal injury attorneys ensure your recovery.

Immediate Steps After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Being injured in a rideshare accident can be disorienting, but prompt action strengthens your claim and protects your health. Follow these steps:

1. Report the Accident via the App and to Police
   • Immediately report the crash through the Uber or Lyft app’s “Trip Issues” section. This logs critical trip data, such as driver details and location, with the rideshare company (Aigen Injury Law).
   • Call 911 to file a police report. An official report documents fault and is vital for insurance claims.
2. Collect Driver and Vehicle Information
   • Obtain the rideshare driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details.
   • If other vehicles are involved, gather their drivers’ names, license plates, and insurance information.
   • Note any witnesses’ contact details for potential testimony.
3. Document the Scene and Injuries
   • Use your phone to photograph the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and your injuries.
   • Time-stamped images provide undeniable evidence of the crash’s circumstances.
4. Seek Medical Attention Promptly
   • Visit a doctor or ER within 24-48 hours, even if injuries seem minor. Conditions like concussions or soft tissue damage may not surface immediately
   • Retain all medical records and bills – they link your injuries to the accident.

Insurance Coverage for Rideshare Passengers

Understanding the insurance coverage available is crucial for injured passengers. Uber and Lyft’s policies vary based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

• During a Ride or En Route to Pickup
  • Both Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage when the driver is transporting a passenger or heading to pick one up.
  • This coverage applies to passengers, ensuring robust protection.
• Logged In but Waiting for a Ride Request
  • Coverage drops to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage (Uber’s terms; Lyft’s may vary slightly).
  • Claims may also involve the driver’s personal insurance or other parties’ policies.
• Driver Not Logged Into the App
  • Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies, which often excludes rideshare activities, complicating claims.
• Other Driver at Fault
  • If another driver caused the crash, their insurance is primarily liable. If they’re uninsured or underinsured, Uber/Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply in some cases.

Comparison Table: Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage

Note: Always verify specific policy terms, as coverage details can vary. That is why it is so important to get the best car accident attorney you can find to review the facts of your case.

Passenger Advantages in Rideshare Claims

As a passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident, you hold several key advantages:

1. No Fault Assigned to Passengers
   • Since you’re not driving, you’re typically not held liable, simplifying the process of proving fault.
2. Multiple Claim Options
   • You can pursue claims against Uber/Lyft’s insurance if the rideshare driver is at fault.
   • If another driver caused the crash, their insurance is an option.
   • Your own UM/UIM coverage may provide additional protection if other policies fall short.
3. Access to Robust Rideshare Insurance
   • The $1 million liability policy during rides offers a significant safety net, often exceeding typical personal auto policies.

These advantages position passengers favorably, but maximizing recovery requires navigating complex insurance interactions.

Wolfson & Leon’s Role: Your Advocate for Full Recovery

Coordinating rideshare passenger claims across multiple insurers—Uber, Lyft, personal policies, or third parties—demands expertise. Wolfson & Leon’s Miami rideshare lawyers excel in this arena, offering:

1. Specialized Rideshare Knowledge
   • We stay current on Florida’s rideshare regulations and insurance policies, ensuring no coverage option is overlooked.
2. Comprehensive Evidence Collection
   • From app data to police reports and medical records, we build a compelling case to prove liability and damages.
3. Skilled Insurance Coordination
   • We negotiate with all relevant insurers, countering denials or lowball offers to secure fair settlements.
4. Trial-Ready Advocacy
   • If insurers refuse to pay, we file suit within Florida’s 2-year statute of limitations (post-2023 reform), leveraging our decades of courtroom success.

Call 305-285-1115 for a free consultation. Our bilingual team, including a former rideshare driver, understands your needs (Wolfson & Leon).

FAQs: Your Rideshare Passenger Claim Questions Answered

Q: What if the Uber/Lyft driver lacks personal insurance?

A: The rideshare company’s coverage applies when logged in. If not, your UM/UIM policy may help. We’ll explore all options—call 305-285-1115.

Q: Can I claim for emotional distress after a crash?

A: Yes, if you suffer anxiety or PTSD, these are compensable. Our personal injury attorneys use medical evidence to prove it.

Q: What if the accident happened between rides?

A: Coverage is lower, but we’ll pursue the driver’s insurance or other liable parties to maximize your recovery.

Q: How long do I have to file a claim?

A: Florida’s statute is two years but acting fast preserves evidence. Contact us immediately.

Don’t Let a Rideshare Accident Derail You

Uber and Lyft accidents can turn a convenient ride into a painful ordeal, but as a passenger, you have powerful legal protections. From the $1 million insurance coverage to your no-fault status, you’re positioned for recovery—if you act wisely. Report the crash, document everything, and trust Wolfson & Leon to handle the rest. With over 60 years of experience and millions recovered, our Miami rideshare lawyers are your allies in navigating complex claims. Don’t let insurers undervalue your suffering—call 305-285-1115 today for a free consultation and reclaim your peace of mind.