Rideshare Accident Attorney Orlando

Your Trusted Partner in Rideshare Accident Cases

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become an integral part of life in Orlando, offering convenient transportation for residents and the millions of tourists who visit our city each year. While these services provide a valuable alternative to driving, the increase in rideshare vehicles on our busy roads has also led to a rise in complex and devastating accidents. When a crash occurs, victims are often left confused about their rights, facing off against powerful corporations and multiple insurance companies.

Determining liability and securing fair compensation after a rideshare accident is significantly more complicated than in a typical car wreck. You need an advocate who understands the specific laws and insurance policies governing Uber and Lyft in Florida. At the Law Office of Modoline Altenor, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of those injured in rideshare accidents. We have the skill and determination to untangle the complexities of your case and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

If you were injured as a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, contact a dedicated Uber accident lawyer in Orlando. 

Call the Law Office of Modoline Altenor at (407) 378-1606 today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

Why Are Rideshare Accident Claims So Complicated?

Unlike a standard two-car accident, where you typically deal with one other driver's insurance, a rideshare crash can involve several policies. Uber and Lyft provide commercial insurance coverage for their drivers, but its application depends entirely on the driver's status in the app at the exact moment of the crash. Understanding these distinctions is critical to your claim.

The legal and insurance landscape is divided into three main periods:

Driver is Offline or Using the App for Personal Use

If the rideshare driver is not logged into the app or is using their vehicle for personal reasons, Uber or Lyft's corporate insurance does not apply. In this scenario, you would file a claim against the driver's personal auto insurance policy, just as you would in any other car accident.

Driver is Available and Waiting for a Ride Request

This is a gray area where many claims become contentious. The driver is logged into the app and available to accept rides, but does not yet have a passenger. During this period, the driver's personal insurance may deny the claim, and the rideshare company's limited liability coverage applies. This coverage is typically lower than their full policy and includes:

• $50,000 in bodily injury liability per person
• $100,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
• $25,000 in property damage liability per accident

Driver is En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or on a Trip

Once the driver has accepted a ride request and is on their way to pick up a passenger, or if a passenger is already in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft's full $1 million commercial liability insurance policy is in effect. This policy covers injuries to passengers, people in other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Navigating which policy applies and proving the driver's status requires immediate and thorough investigation, something a skilled Lyft accident attorney in Orlando is equipped to handle.

Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents in Orlando

While rideshare accidents can be caused by any form of negligence, some factors are particularly common in this industry. Drivers are often under pressure to complete as many trips as possible, which can lead to dangerous behaviors, including:

• Distracted Driving: Constantly interacting with the rideshare app on their phone is a major cause of driver inattention.
• Drowsy Driving: Many drivers work long hours, sometimes after another full-time job, leading to fatigue and slowed reaction times.
• Speeding: Rushing to pick up a passenger or reach a destination quickly can lead to speeding and aggressive driving.
• Unfamiliarity with the Area: Especially in a tourist hub like Orlando, drivers may be overly reliant on GPS and not familiar with local traffic patterns or hazards.
• Sudden Stops or Illegal U-turns: Drivers may make unpredictable maneuvers to pick up or drop off passengers in unsafe locations.

What Steps Should You Take After an Orlando Rideshare Accident?

The actions you take immediately after a crash are crucial for protecting your health and your legal rights.

• Call 911: Report the accident and request police and emergency medical services. A police report is vital evidence.
• Seek Medical Attention: Get a medical evaluation as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some serious injuries have delayed symptoms.
• Gather Evidence: If you are able, take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Get contact information from the rideshare driver and any witnesses.
• Take a Screenshot: Open the Uber or Lyft app and take a screenshot of your trip information. This is critical proof of the driver's status.
• Report the Accident to Uber/Lyft: Use the app to officially report the crash to the rideshare company.
• Do Not Give a Recorded Statement: Do not speak to any insurance adjusters or give a recorded statement before consulting with an attorney.
• Contact a Rideshare Accident Attorney in Orlando: Let a legal professional handle communications with the insurance companies and protect your interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the Uber or Lyft driver wasn't at fault for my accident?

If another driver was at fault, you would primarily file a claim against that driver's insurance policy. However, if that driver is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company's Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply if you were on an active trip.

Does Florida's no-fault law apply to rideshare accidents?

Yes. Florida's Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law still applies. Your own PIP insurance is typically the first source of coverage for your medical bills, regardless of fault. However, for serious injuries that exceed your PIP limits, you can pursue a claim against the at-fault party.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly for my injuries?

Suing the company directly is difficult, as they classify their drivers as independent contractors. However, their $1 million insurance policy is designed to cover injuries caused by their drivers' negligence during active trips. A lawyer can help determine the most effective legal strategy.

How much does it cost to hire a rideshare accident attorney?

At the Law Office of Modoline Altenor, we handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront fees. We only get paid if we win a settlement or verdict in your favor.

What if I was a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a rideshare driver?

You have the same rights to compensation as anyone else injured by a negligent driver. Which insurance policy applies will still depend on the driver's status in the app at the time of the collision.

Reach Out for Compassionate & Professional Legal Support

Don't face the legal aftermath of a rideshare accident alone. Let the Law Office of Modoline Altenor be your advocate. 

Contact us today for a free, comprehensive review of your case and learn how we can help you move forward.