Liability For Accidents Involving An Uber Driver
Uber is one of the most popular rideshare companies not only in the U.S., but also in Florida. While it may be simpler to use a rideshare service like Uber, which tend to be more convenient than traditional taxis, they are not always the safest option. In fact, collisions are so common that Uber and similar rideshare companies are now required to carry liability insurance in Florida in the event of a collision. Obtaining compensation through a third party insurance claim can, however, be complicated. For help with your own claim, please call one of our dedicated Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers today.
Uber Insurance Coverage
Before 2017, drivers who were involved in collisions with Uber drivers were forced to attempt to recover compensation from that driver’s insurer. Unfortunately, this coverage didn’t always apply in these cases. Furthermore, Florida’s no-fault auto insurance system often made it more difficult for accident victims to recover the full amount of their losses. Florida lawmakers addressed these problems in 2017 when they passed a new law that required rideshare companies in Florida to provide a minimum amount of primary auto liability coverage. The law also sets minimum requirements for driver background checks, driving record reviews, and other issues that could affect passenger safety.
When are Uber Drivers Covered?
An Uber driver’s degree of coverage after an accident depends on a few different factors. Drivers whose apps are offline, for instance, won’t qualify for insurance coverage at all. If a driver is waiting or available for a ride request, Uber provides third party liability coverage of up to:
- $50,000 for bodily injury;
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident; and
- $25,000 for property damage.
If, on the other hand, a driver was on the way to pick up a passenger, or had already done so, coverage would increase to $1 million.
Covering Damages
Accident victims who file third party insurance claims with Uber will need to claim all of their economic and non-economic damages. Damages that accident victims can seek include reimbursement for:
- The cost of medical treatment;
- The cost of future medical care and physical therapy;
- Any expenses related to long-term health or personal care;
- Lost salary, benefits, wages, and other forms of income;
- A reduction in future earning potential resulting from physical injury;
- The physical pain and suffering endured by the victim because of the accident;
- The emotional and mental suffering endured by the victim; and
- Temporary or permanent disability or disfigurement resulting from the victim’s accident-related injuries.
While rideshare companies have a sizable amount of insurance coverage, they aren’t always willing to pay the full amount of a claim. An experienced rideshare car accident attorney will understand the complexities that are involved in these kinds of cases and can help maximize an injured party’s chances of recovery.
Set Up a Free Consultation
If you need help recovering compensation after a collision with an Uber driver, please call 954-566-9919 and set up a meeting with one of the dedicated car accident lawyers at Boone & Davis today.
Resource:
flsenate.gov/Committees/billsummaries/2017/html/1606
