Been Injured By A Rideshare Car?
Rideshare cars, like those representing Uber and Lyft, occupy a somewhat unique grey zone in terms of auto accident liability. In these crashes, determining who may be held liable if injuries result must take more factors into account than in an ordinary auto accident case – and being on the clock will usually result in a different outcome than if the driver is off work. The right attorney can help you understand whether or not you have a case if you have been injured.
Not A Taxicab
Rideshare companies, referred to as transportation network companies (TNCs) in Florida law, contract with an individual or group of people to transport them from one place to another. What many users do not understand is that these drivers are explicitly not taxicabs, and are thus not burdened by rules made for taxi drivers. For example, unlike in a normal taxicab, medical coverage is not guaranteed by an Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance if an accident occurs.
Uber and Lyft drivers, unlike others who drive for a living, are not constantly on the clock – and thus, Florida’s legislature has decided that commercial insurance offered by the TNC does not apply unless the driver is ‘at work’ – that is, they are logged into the relevant app on their phone and are actively looking for rides or picking up a prearranged fare. This can sometimes place an injured rider in an awkward position.
Different Levels Of Insurance Coverage
If you are injured in an accident involving a rideshare car, either as a rider or a pedestrian, it is crucial that you act quickly if you believe there is a case against the driver. Not only are there multiple potential work statuses for a driver, but depending on the facts of your situation, multiple different insurance companies may wind up involved in your case.
Florida’s statutes, thankfully, are fairly clear on liability for the TNC – if the driver was not on the clock, their personal auto insurance should provide primary coverage for the injured plaintiff. If they were logged into the app, but had no rider, the TNC’s insurance will be on the proverbial hook for limited coverage. If the driver is logged into the app and engaged in an active rideshare, the TNC’s insurance will fully apply.
Contact An Orlando Rideshare Accident Attorney
The odds of being involved in a rideshare accident are low, but anything can happen on the road. If you have been injured in this kind of crash, an Orlando rideshare accident attorney from the Hornsby Law Group can help ensure your medical bills are paid and your peace of mind begins to heal. Call our office today to schedule a consultation.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0627/Sections/0627.748.html
