Riverview Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer

In today’s world, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have transformed the way we travel, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for millions of people. However, despite drivers’ best intentions, accidents caused by driver negligence can occur, wreaking havoc on passengers and other drivers, both physically and emotionally.

Why Choose Our Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyers in Riverview?

At Franchi Law, our personal injury lawyers in Riverview understand the impact an Uber/Lyft accident can have on your life and we’re here to help. Led by William Franchi, our team is dedicated to advocating for our ridesharing accident clients. With our transparent fee structure and commitment to maximum compensation, we work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Get started with us today by calling 813-800-4LAW or booking your Riverview ridesharing case review online.

The Impact Of Ridesharing Companies And Services On Florida Residents

Ridesharing companies, in their pursuit to revolutionize transportation, have left behind a trail of tragic incidents. A study by the University of Chicago revealed a staggering 3% increase in vehicle fatalities and fatal accidents between 2014 and 2016 directly linked to these services.

One theory for the surge in fatalities is that driver requirements are largely minimal for ridesharing apps. As opposed to becoming a taxi driver or chauffeur in major cities requiring drivers to take specific professional development classes and exams, Uber and Lyft driver requirements are fairly minimal.

The requirements are:

• Pass a background check
• Meet the age requirement to drive in the city
  • For Lyft, that age is 25
• Possess the following
  • A valid driver’s license
  • Insurance
  • A social security number
  • A phone that can run the app

For both Uber and Lyft, there appear to be stricter requirements on what cars are eligible for the ridesharing service, not the drivers driving them.

Considering how there appears to be an increase in accidents after the widespread usage of ridesharing, you would think that Uber and Lyft would create more strict driver training programs and a higher standard to be able to drive for the app.

That is sadly not the case.

Why Do Ridesharing Drivers Get In Accidents?

Ridesharing accidents are a major public safety concern, and understanding the facts surrounding these incidents is crucial.

The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHSTA) reported that 94% of motor vehicle accidents are attributable to driver error. This goes for Lyft and Uber drivers too.

It can be argued that ridesharing drivers are more prone to making mistakes while driving since they are required to use the app while driving to accept rides.

Examples of reasons Uber or Lyft drivers cause accidents include situations such as:

• Using the app while driving instead of paying attention to the road
• Speeding to race to a potential pickup or drop off in a short period of time
• Trying to navigate roads that the driver is unfamiliar with
  • This can cause unexpected stops, slower driving, and sudden turns
• Exhaustion or fatigue of the driver, which can be the mental equivalent of driving under the influence
• Poor selection of a pickup or drop-off location

Navigating A Ridesharing Driver’s Insurance After An Accident

In the event of an accident involving a ridesharing driver, the situation can become complicated due to the additional insurance coverage provided by Uber and Lyft to their on-duty drivers.

Ridesharing drivers are always required to have their own insurance coverage to be able to drive for the app, but the situation can become unclear depending on whether the driver app is active or not.

In 2017, Former Governor Rick Scott signed HB 211 into law, adding additional requirements for Florida ridesharing drivers. The legislation requires that a transportation network company (TNC) such as Uber and Lyft maintain the following for when a driver is driving on-the-clock with the app on (even with no rider):

• $50,000 for Death and Bodily Injury Per Person
• $100,000 for Death and Bodily Injury Per Accident
• $25,000 in Property Damage

Lyft and Uber provide at least $1,000,000 for third-party auto liability with a rider in the car on an active drop-off.

How Does Florida’s No-Fault Car Accident Insurance System Affect My Uber or Lyft Claim?

Similar to other car accidents in Riverview, the ridesharing driver’s Personal Injury Protection Policy (PIP) – required for all Florida drivers – will likely be utilized first in the event of a car accident that caused injuries.

Because Florida is a no-fault state when it comes to auto insurance, any driver who is injured in an accident between Florida-registered drivers can recover financial compensation up to 80% of medical expenses, with a $10,000 cap.

However, PIP insurance only activates if both drivers were driving vehicles they own that were registered in Florida or have a family member with a qualifying PIP plan. If those conditions are not met or if the victim experienced “serious bodily injury” then an individual can begin legal action against the negligent driver that caused the injury.

We know that these circumstances are sometimes confusing or disorienting regarding determining liability. That’s why the team at Franchi Law is available for free consultations for Riverview Uber or Lyft cases.

William Franchi is in a unique position to be able to navigate the complexities of liability surrounding ridesharing accidents due to having been a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) deputy earlier in his career before he was a Riverview Uber/Lyft accident lawyer.

Franchi Law Is The Team To Hold Your Uber Or Lyft Driver Accountable For Their Negligence

Don’t let an Uber or Lyft accident disrupt your life – let us take the legal burden off your shoulders and seek justice on your behalf.

Through professional communication and personalized attention, William Franchi and the team of Florida personal injury lawyers at Franchi Law Firm will guide you through the legal process, fighting for your rights every step of the way.

Let us help you get back on the road to healing and recovery. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation by calling 813-800-4LAW or booking your appointment online today.