Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made getting around Florida easier than ever. But when an accident happens, the situation can quickly become confusing and stressful — especially when multiple insurance companies are involved. Knowing what to do in the critical moments after a crash can make a major difference in protecting your health, your rights, and your financial future.
At The Nurse Lawyer, P.A., we understand how overwhelming these situations can feel. Led by attorney Maryann Furman, who brings the dual perspective of a registered nurse and a personal injury lawyer, our firm is dedicated to helping rideshare accident victims navigate their next steps with confidence and care. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, following these ten essential steps can help you protect your interests and start your path toward recovery.
1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety come first. If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, call 911 immediately to report the crash and request medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, remember that injuries like internal trauma or whiplash may not show symptoms right away.
Why It Matters:
Prompt medical attention not only ensures your well-being but also creates a documented link between the accident and your injuries, which is vital for your claim.
2. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
In Florida, you must report any car accident involving injuries or significant property damage to the police. The responding officer will create an official accident report, which can serve as valuable evidence when filing a claim.
Tip:
Request the officer’s name, badge number, and a copy of the report for your records.
3. Collect Information from All Parties Involved
Gather contact and insurance information from everyone involved in the accident, including:
- The rideshare driver
- Any other drivers
- Passengers
- Witnesses
Key Details to Note:
- Names and phone numbers
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate numbers
- Insurance policy information
Important: Avoid discussing fault with anyone at the scene to protect your claim.
4. Document the Accident Scene
Use your smartphone to capture detailed photos and videos of the accident scene. Include:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions (e.g., wet roads or debris)
- Traffic signals and signage
- Visible injuries
Why This Helps:
Visual evidence strengthens your case and can help reconstruct the events leading to the accident.
5. Notify Uber or Lyft
If the accident occurred while you were a rideshare passenger or if a rideshare vehicle was involved, report the incident to Uber or Lyft through their respective apps or customer service portals.
How to File a Report:
- Open the app and navigate to the “Help” or “Support” section.
- Provide details about the accident, including the date, time, and location.
Both companies require prompt reporting, so don’t delay.
6. Consult a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Dealing with rideshare companies and their insurers can be overwhelming. An experienced Uber or Lyft accident lawyer can guide you through the complexities of your case and ensure your rights are protected.
How a Lawyer Helps:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Negotiating with multiple insurance companies
- Determining liability in cases involving multiple parties
At The Nurse Lawyer, P.A., Maryann Furman provides knowledgeable, compassionate representation to help you navigate every step of your recovery.
7. Understand Rideshare Insurance Coverage
The amount of insurance coverage offered by Uber and Lyft depends on the driver’s activity during the accident. Here’s how coverage typically works:
- Off-Duty Drivers: Personal auto insurance applies.
- App On, No Passenger: Contingent liability coverage (up to $50,000 per person for injuries).
- Ride in Progress: Full liability coverage (up to $1 million) applies when the driver is actively transporting a passenger.
Why It Matters:
Understanding these distinctions helps you identify which insurance policy may cover your damages.
8. Track Your Medical Treatment and Expenses
Keep detailed records of your medical care, including:
- Doctor’s visits
- Prescriptions
- Physical therapy
- Hospital stays
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Transportation costs to medical appointments
Why This Is Important:
Comprehensive documentation supports your claim for medical expenses and helps calculate future costs related to your injuries.
9. Preserve Communication Records
Save all communication with:
- The rideshare company
- Insurance adjusters
- Witnesses
Best Practice:
Keep interactions professional and avoid providing recorded statements without consulting your lawyer. Insurers may use your words to minimize or deny your claim.
10. File Your Claim Within Florida’s Statute of Limitations
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. Failing to act within this timeframe can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Tip:
Start your claim process as soon as possible to ensure evidence and witness testimony remain fresh.
Common Challenges in Rideshare Accident Claims
Rideshare accidents often involve several complicating factors:
- Determining Liability: Establishing whether the rideshare driver, another driver, or both share fault can be complex.
- Navigating Insurance Policies: Uber and Lyft have layered insurance coverage that changes based on the driver’s status.
- Dealing with Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame or undervalue your claim to protect their bottom line and minimize payouts.
How an Uber or Lyft Accident Lawyer Can Help
Rideshare accident claims require knowledge of insurance policies and personal injury law. A lawyer experienced in these cases can:
- Assess your case and determine the best course of action
- Handle negotiations with rideshare companies and insurance adjusters
- Advocate for the full compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
At The Nurse Lawyer, P.A., we are committed to helping accident victims achieve meaningful recovery and move forward with confidence.
Illustration: How Legal Guidance Can Make a Difference
Consider a hypothetical scenario: A passenger in Florida is injured when their rideshare driver is rear-ended by another vehicle. Although the accident was clearly not the rideshare driver’s fault, the passenger’s injuries are serious, and the medical bills quickly add up.
An attorney helping the passenger carefully reviews all available insurance coverages – including the rideshare company’s policies and the at-fault driver’s insurance. Through careful negotiation, the attorney secures a settlement that fully addresses the passenger’s medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Please note: This is a fictional example for educational purposes only and does not represent an actual client or outcome.
Stay Safe: Practical Tips for Rideshare Passengers and Drivers
While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a rideshare crash.
For Passengers:
- Always wear your seatbelt, no matter how short the trip.
- Confirm the driver's name, vehicle make, and license plate before getting into the car.
- Share your ride details with a trusted friend or family member when possible.
For Drivers:
- Avoid distractions by keeping your focus fully on the road and passengers.
- Obey all traffic laws and speed limits, even when rideshare apps incentivize faster trips.
- Perform regular vehicle maintenance to ensure your brakes, tires, and lights are in safe working condition.
Staying alert, cautious, and prepared can help protect everyone on the road – whether you’re behind the wheel or riding as a passenger.
Don’t Face a Florida Rideshare Accident Alone – Contact The Nurse Lawyer, P.A. Today
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, Safety Harbor, or anywhere throughout the Tampa Bay area, you deserve compassionate, knowledgeable legal support.
At The Nurse Lawyer, P.A., attorney Maryann Furman combines her legal skills and nursing background to offer personalized advocacy for rideshare accident victims. Our firm is committed to helping you seek the full compensation you need to move forward.
Contact us today by calling (727) 807-6182 or filling out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Let us handle the legal challenges while you focus on healing.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.
