Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Miami – What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Crash

Miami Uber Car Accident Lawyer Explains Your Rights After a Rideshare Crash

Injured in a rideshare car accident involving Uber, Lyft, Curb, Wingz, Blacklane, Gett, or Ztrip?
You may be entitled to compensation for injuries, damages, or wrongful death, and The Perazzo Law Firm is here to help.

Rideshare car accidents are confusing. Furthermore, Uber and Lyft insurance rules are complicated, with most people not knowing who’s actually responsible for their injuries, whether it’s the driver, the rideshare company, or another vehicle involved.

If you were hurt in an Uber or Lyft crash, you may need a rideshare accident lawyer in Miami to protect your rights, deal with multiple insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve to cover injuries, damages, or losses.

Rideshare accidents are not ordinary car crashes. They involve corporate policies, app data, GPS records, and layered insurance coverage that shifts depending on the driver’s status at the moment of the rideshare accident. This page explains how rideshare accidents may happen, who is required to pay, what compensation may be available, and how an experienced Miami rideshare lawyer can guide you through the process.

Why Rideshare Accidents Are Different from Regular Car Crashes

Uber and Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees. That distinction changes the normal rules of the game. Liability and insurance coverage depend on what the driver was doing in the app at the exact time of the crash.

There are three key insurance phases:

• App off: The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
• App on, no passenger assigned: Limited rideshare coverage may apply.
• Passenger in the car or ride accepted: Uber or Lyft’s $1 million liability policy may apply.

Florida’s no-fault insurance system adds another layer of complexity. Injured victims often must first turn to their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage before pursuing claims against other parties. Determining which policy applies, and when, is one of the most challenging aspects of rideshare accident cases.

Who Pays After a Rideshare Accident in Miami?

The economically liable party that pays for losses depends on several factors, including driver status, fault, and the number of vehicles involved.

• Uber or Lyft’s $1 million policy may apply when the driver is actively transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up.
• The driver’s personal insurance may apply if the app was off.
• Another motorist’s insurance may be responsible if that driver caused the crash.
• Multiple parties may share fault, triggering multiple claims.

Florida’s PIP coverage often pays first for medical bills, regardless of fault. However, serious injuries may allow claims beyond PIP against at-fault parties. Sorting this out correctly can significantly affect recovery.

Why Choose a Miami Uber Accident Lawyer?

Rideshare car services like Uber, Lyft, Curb, and Wingz promise safety, but accidents still happen.
When they do, insurance coverage can get confusing. Our experienced legal team helps victims:

• Determine liability, whether it’s the rideshare driver, another vehicle, or third-party negligence
• File injury or wrongful death claims
• Navigate complex rideshare insurance policies
• Get compensated for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering

What to Do Immediately After an Uber or Lyft Accident

1. Get medical help right away. Early treatment protects your health and documents your injuries.
2. Call the police. A crash report is critical evidence.
3. Take photos and videos. Capture vehicles, damage, injuries, and surroundings.
4. Collect contact details. Get information from drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
5. Report the crash in the app. Uber and Lyft require in-app reporting.
6. Avoid recorded statements. Do not speak with insurance adjusters without legal advice.

Each step helps preserve evidence and avoid mistakes that could weaken your claim.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Miami

Rideshare related car accidents often stem from conditions unique to app-based driving, including distracted driving while using navigation or accepting rides, driver fatigue from long hours, speeding to meet ride demand, unsafe pickups and drop-offs, heavy traffic in areas like Downtown and Miami Beach, and sudden weather changes that affect visibility and road conditions.

Injuries and Long-Term Impacts After a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare car accident victims in a rideshare accident situation may suffer whiplash, head injuries, broken bones, spinal damage, or emotional trauma such as anxiety or PTSD. Beyond physical pain, recovery can involve lost income, mounting medical bills, rehabilitation, and long-term care. These factors directly influence the value of a rideshare accident claim.

What Compensation Can You Claim After a Rideshare Accident

Compensation for injuries sustained in a Rideshare related accident may include:

• Economic damages: Economic damages are the measurable financial losses caused by an accident. These typically include current and future medical expenses such as emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and follow-up treatment. Lost wages are also recoverable if injuries from the accident prevent you from working, along with loss of earning opportunities if your ability to work is reduced. Property damage, including repair or replacement of a vehicle or personal items damaged in the crash, is also part of economic damages.
• Non-economic damages: Non-economic damages address the personal and human impact of an injury. These damages compensate for physical pain, ongoing discomfort, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and the loss of enjoyment of daily life. While these losses are not tied to a specific bill or receipt, they are often a significant part of an injury claim, especially in cases involving long-term or permanent injuries.
• Future damages: Future damages account for losses that extend beyond immediate recovery. This may include ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, assistive devices, or long-term care needs. Future damages also cover reduced earning capacity if injuries limit your ability to return to work or require a career change. Accurately calculating future damages often requires medical and financial experts to ensure long-term needs are fully considered.

Every case is different, and outcomes depend on evidence, injury severity, and insurance coverage. No result is guaranteed.

How a Miami Rideshare Car Accident Lawyer Helps You Recover Compensation

A skilled rideshare car accident lawyer in Miami investigates the crash, secures app data and GPS records, identifies all liable parties, manages negotiations with Uber, Lyft, and other insurers, and prepares the case for litigation if necessary. This level of advocacy often prevents lowball settlements and protects clients from insurance tactics.

Florida’s Rideshare Insurance Rules Explained

Florida law requires active rideshare drivers to carry up to $1 million in liability coverage. However, coverage gaps exist when the app is on but no passenger is assigned. Many accident victims fall into these gaps without realizing it, which is why careful legal analysis is essential.

What to Expect When Filing a Rideshare Accident Claim

The process typically includes a case evaluation, investigation, medical documentation, filing claims with all insurers, negotiation, and a litigation process if needed. Timelines vary based on injury severity, treatment duration, and insurance cooperation.

How Long Do You Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim in Florida?

Florida law generally gives accident victims two years to file a personal injury claim and four years to pursue property damage claims. These deadlines are strict, and missing them can have serious consequences.

If a claim is not filed within the applicable statute of limitations according to State laws, the court will typically dismiss the case, regardless of how strong the evidence may be or how severe the injuries are. Once dismissed, the injured party usually loses the legal right to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or property damage.

Motor vehicle Insurance providers are well aware of these deadlines and may delay negotiations or communication in hopes that the filing window expires. Once that happens, insurers are no longer legally obligated to pay, leaving accident victims responsible for their own losses.

Because evidence fades, records disappear, and witnesses become harder to locate over time, waiting too long can weaken a claim even before the deadline passes. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer early helps preserve evidence, protect your rights, and ensure all required filings are completed on time.

Mistakes That Can Damage Your Rideshare Accident Claim

Rideshare accident claims are easy to damage early because multiple insurance policies are involved. Common mistakes include admitting fault, giving recorded statements without legal guidance, delaying medical care, failing to document injuries, and accepting quick settlements. Each of these can be used by insurers to reduce or deny compensation. Taking prompt medical action, preserving evidence, and getting informed guidance helps protect your claim and your right to full recovery.

Local Focus – Rideshare Accidents in Miami-Dade and Broward

High rideshare activity areas include Downtown Miami, Brickell, Wynwood, and Miami Beach. Major roads like I-95, Biscayne Boulevard, and US-1 see frequent crashes due to congestion and tourism. Local knowledge of courts, insurers, and traffic patterns matters in these cases (see Most Dangerous Roadways in Florida).

Rideshare Accident Statistics in Florida

State and federal data show a steady rise in accidents involving rideshare vehicles, with common injuries including neck and back trauma. Statewide trends indicate higher claim values in cases involving serious injuries and multiple insurance policies.

FAQs About Rideshare Accidents and Legal Claims

• What should I do if I’m injured in an Uber or Lyft accident? Seek medical care, report the crash, document everything, and get legal advice early.
• Who pays my medical bills? PIP coverage typically pays first, followed by applicable liability policies.
• Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly? In some cases, depending on liability and coverage.
• How much does a rideshare lawyer cost? Most work on contingency with no upfront fees.
• What if I was a passenger? Passengers are often covered under Uber or Lyft’s policy.

Rideshare services companies operating in Miami started with Uber and Lyft, which have evolved into other categories such as:

UBER RIDESHARE SERVICES

• Uber Green – Uber Green is designed as an eco-friendly transportation option, offering rides in fully electric or hybrid vehicles. This service is intended to reduce carbon emissions by relying on vehicles with low or zero exhaust output, making it a popular choice for environmentally conscious riders. Because Uber Green vehicles operate differently from traditional gas-powered cars, accident investigations may still involve the same insurance rules and liability questions as other Uber services, despite the environmental benefits.
• Uber X – UberX is Uber’s most widely used and standard rideshare option. It typically includes everyday passenger vehicles designed to transport up to four riders. Because UberX accounts for a large percentage of Uber trips in Miami, many rideshare accident claims involve UberX drivers. Insurance coverage depends on whether the driver was logged into the app, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting one at the time of the crash.
• Uber XL – UberXL provides larger vehicles capable of transporting up to six passengers, making it a common choice for families, groups, or airport transportation. These vehicles often include SUVs or vans, which can result in different injury patterns during accidents due to size and passenger capacity. As with other Uber services, determining liability after an UberXL accident requires analyzing driver status, insurance coverage, and the circumstances surrounding the crash.

LYFT RIDESHARE SERVICES

• Lyft Lux Black – Offers premium transportation using high-end vehicles operated by experienced drivers. These rides typically involve luxury sedans and higher vehicle standards compared to standard Lyft services. While the experience is elevated, accidents involving Lyft Lux Black vehicles still fall under the same rideshare insurance framework. Liability and coverage depend on whether the driver was logged into the app, transporting a passenger, or en route to a pickup at the time of the crash.
• Lyft Lux Black XL – High-end vehicles which can provide luxury transportation for as many as 6 passengers in larger vehicles. Lyft Lux Black XL provides luxury transportation in larger, high-end vehicles capable of accommodating up to six passengers. This service is often used for group travel, airport transfers, or events where both space and comfort are priorities. Because these vehicles are larger and carry more passengers, accidents involving Lyft Lux Black XL rides may result in more complex injury claims. Determining insurance coverage requires a careful review of whether the driver was actively transporting passengers, en route to a pickup, or logged into the app without an assigned ride.
• Lyft XL – A standard rideshare option that offers additional seating compared to regular Lyft vehicles, making it suitable for families, groups, or riders traveling with extra luggage. Lyft XL rides typically involve SUVs or minivans and are slightly more expensive than standard Lyft trips. From a legal perspective, accidents involving Lyft XL vehicles can involve higher injury exposure due to increased passenger capacity. As with other Lyft services, liability and insurance coverage depend on the driver’s app status and the circumstances surrounding the crash.

If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident, either as a passenger, pedestrian, or driver, don’t wait.

Call The Perazzo Law Firm now for a FREE consultation NOW!
We’re available 24/7 to evaluate your case and guide you through the next steps.

Don’t deal with Lyft’s insurance alone. Let us help you get the compensation you truly deserve.

THE PERAZZO LAW FIRM – DEDICATED TO PUTTING YOUR INTERESTS FIRST, ALWAYS!

Atendemos a la Comunidad Hispana

If you, a family member or loved one has been hurt in a ride-share accident, The Perazzo Law Firm urges you to contact us ONLINE or CALL (786) LAWS-411 for a FREE initial consultation.

When is an UBER / LYFT Driver at Fault for an Auto Accident?

A Look at Uber Accident Liability and Insurance Coverage – What You Need to Know

An Uber or Lyft driver may be found at fault for an accident if they act negligently while operating their vehicle, leading to a crash. If an accident occurs, a police officer will arrive at the scene to document the incident, and if the Uber or Lyft driver is found at fault, they will typically receive a citation for violations such as careless driving, failure to yield to oncoming traffic, or failure to yield the right of way. The police report and eyewitness testimony are often the two most crucial pieces of evidence in determining liability in an Uber or Lyft accident.

Common Parties Involved in Uber/Lyft Accidents

Uber and Lyft accidents often involve one or more of the following:

• Other vehicles – including cars, SUVs, or trucks.
• Motorcycles – riders are particularly vulnerable in rideshare accidents.
• Bicycles – cyclists often suffer severe injuries in collisions with Uber/Lyft vehicles.
• Pedestrians – distracted or rushing rideshare drivers can pose a significant risk to pedestrians.
• Fixed objects – such as light poles, guardrails, or parked vehicles.
• Third-party victims – including passengers inside the Uber or Lyft at the time of the crash.

Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage for Accidents

If an Uber or Lyft driver is found liable for an accident, a Perazzo Law Firm Uber accident lawyer in Miami will gather all necessary evidence, including police reports and witness statements, to file an insurance claim for compensation against the rideshare driver’s insurance provider.

Most Uber and Lyft drivers are covered by a $1 million insurance policy, which includes:

• Uninsured Motorist Coverage – Covers personal injury expenses if the other driver involved has no insurance to cover medical bills or losses.
• Underinsured Motorist Coverage – Helps pay for medical expenses exceeding the $10,000 provided by PIP (Personal Injury Protection).
• Bodily Injury Coverage – Covers medical costs and lost wages for accident victims, whether the Uber driver is at fault or not.
• Comprehensive Coverage – Helps repair or replace a stolen or damaged vehicle in non-collision situations such as fire, vandalism, or weather-related damage.
• Collision Coverage – Covers repair or replacement costs if the Uber or Lyft driver’s vehicle is damaged in a crash with another vehicle or object.

When Does Uber/Lyft Insurance Apply?

Uber and Lyft require all drivers to carry personal car insurance, but their supplemental insurance only applies when the app is on.

✔️ If the Uber/Lyft app is OFF – The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
✔️ If the app is ON but no ride has been accepted – Limited liability coverage applies.
✔️ If the driver has accepted a ride or has a passenger – Uber/Lyft’s $1 million policy is in effect.

This means passengers, Uber drivers, and third parties are covered from the moment the app is active—whether the accident occurs before, during, or after a ride.

How Much Do Uber/Lyft Drivers Pay for Insurance?

On average, Uber and Lyft drivers pay between $1,200 to $2,400 per year for full coverage. Some opt for rideshare insurance, a cheaper alternative that ranges from $10 to $350 per year, depending on location and insurer.

If you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Miami, don’t navigate the complex insurance claims process alone. The Perazzo Law Firm has extensive experience handling rideshare accident claims and will fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

📞 Contact us today for a FREE consultation!

Determining Fault After an Uber Car Accident

When Is an Uber or Lyft Driver Clearly at Fault for an Accident?
An Uber or Lyft driver may be undeniably at fault for an accident when their negligence behind the wheel directly leads to a crash. Negligent driving behaviors put passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists at risk, and when an accident occurs, the Uber or Lyft driver can be held legally responsible for any injuries or damages caused.

Common Acts of Negligence by Uber & Lyft Drivers

🚨 Cellphone Use While Driving
Negligent cellphone use is one of the leading causes of accidents today, and rideshare drivers are especially vulnerable to distractions. Uber and Lyft drivers frequently interact with their phones to navigate via GPS, accept rides, check earnings, or communicate with passengers. However, using a cellphone while driving significantly increases the risk of accidents. If an Uber driver is texting, making calls, activating an app, or scrolling for new rides at the time of an accident, they will almost certainly be found at fault. If you were a passenger in an Uber crash, and the driver was using their phone, this evidence can be critical in proving liability in a claim for compensation.

🚦 Careless Driving
Failing to pay attention to the road—even for a split second—can lead to catastrophic accidents. Some of the most common Uber/Lyft accidents involve rear-end collisions, which often result from inattentiveness, distracted driving, or failing to notice slowed or stopped traffic ahead. Rideshare drivers often get distracted by GPS instructions, conversations with passengers, or notifications on their screens, leading to delayed reaction times.

📍 Failure to Yield to Oncoming Traffic
Uber and Lyft drivers may also be at fault for failing to yield, especially at:

• Intersections
• Highway on/off ramps
• Roundabouts
• Parking lot exits
• Driveways or alleys

Failing to yield at the right time can cause dangerous T-bone or side-impact collisions, which can result in severe injuries for passengers and other motorists. If an Uber driver fails to follow traffic laws, the police report will likely cite them for careless driving, making them liable for the damages caused.

Proving Fault & Seeking Compensation After an Uber/Lyft Accident

When an Uber or Lyft accident occurs due to driver negligence, a police officer will investigate the scene, take statements, and inspect the vehicle damage to determine fault. If the rideshare driver is cited for careless driving, cellphone use, or failure to yield, victims have a strong case for compensation.

A personal injury lawyer can file an insurance claim against Uber’s $1 million policy on behalf of passengers or other injured parties. This claim can cover:

✔ Medical expenses
✔ Lost wages
✔ Pain and suffering
✔ Property damage

If you or a loved one was injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, The Perazzo Law Firm is ready to fight for your right to just compensation.

📞 Call today for a FREE consultation!

THE UBER ACCIDENT LAWYERS AT THE PERAZZO LAW FIRM – DEDICATED TO PUTTING YOUR INTERESTS FIRST