As Florida’s capital, Tallahassee is home to Florida State University, the historic Capitol Building, and vibrant spots like Cascades Park and Railroad Square Art District. The city’s growing population, combined with an influx of visitors from areas such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Leon County, has led to an increased number of Uber and Lyft drivers on local roads.
Although rideshare services offer convenient transportation, a greater volume of trips can also heighten the risk of collisions. If you’re involved in a car accident with a rideshare vehicle, you may face serious challenges, from brain injury or spinal cord trauma to mounting medical bills. Such injuries can alter your life in an instant.
Introduction
Should you or a loved one experience harm in a vehicle collision with an Uber or Lyft driver, our dedicated Tallahassee Uber Accident Lawyer team is ready to uphold your legal rights. Backed by extensive experience, the attorneys at Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys fight for fair compensation on behalf of those dealing with accident injuries. From broken bones to wrongful death cases, we have the resources, legal know-how, and track record to guide you toward the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Although each rideshare accident unfolds differently, several recurring factors frequently contribute to these collisions:
- Distracted Driving: Using mobile phones to accept riders, check navigation, or send messages can result in missed traffic signals or dangerous maneuvers.
- Drowsy or Overworked Drivers: Some rideshare drivers put in long shifts to maximize their earnings, which can lead to fatigue and delayed response times behind the wheel.
- Reckless or Impaired Operation: Excessive speeding, running stop signs, or driving under the influence are serious forms of negligence that commonly cause devastating crashes.
- Insurance Coverage Gaps: The driver’s insurance may not always match the higher coverage offered by Uber or Lyft. Disputes frequently arise when assessing liability after a collision.
- Careless or At-Fault Driver Negligence: Failure to follow traffic laws can result in major property damage, significant medical expenses, and questions over who bears financial responsibility.
No matter the cause, collaborating with an experienced accident attorney can be the key to holding the at-fault motorist or the rideshare company accountable for your accident claim.
Florida Law, Insurance, and Your Legal Rights
In Florida, all drivers must carry auto insurance that includes Personal Injury Protection (PIP). However, if injuries are severe, these basic benefits rarely suffice.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage: PIP partially offsets immediate expenses such as medical bills, but it can be inadequate for victims facing extensive rehabilitation or permanent disability.
- Additional Policy Limits: If your injuries outpace the insurance policy of the at-fault driver, you can file a personal injury claim against the broader coverage provided by Uber or Lyft (when the rideshare driver is actively engaged in transporting a passenger).
- Insurance Company Negotiations: Adjusters may try to minimize claims for auto accident victims. A Tallahassee accident lawyer or personal injury attorney who understands Florida law can push back against lowball offers to help you pursue the full amount you deserve for your accident claim.
Keep in mind that Florida’s statute of limitations restricts how long you can wait to file an accident claim. Acting quickly preserves your right to recover costs associated with bodily injury, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How Our Law Firm Helps Rideshare Accident Victims
At Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys, we champion accident victims in Tallahassee and beyond. Our legal representation includes:
- Free Consultation and Case Review: We conduct an initial free case evaluation to gauge the viability of your accident claim against Uber, Lyft, or other at-fault parties.
- Comprehensive Investigation: Our legal team collects crucial evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and scene photographs, to establish cause and liability.
- Insurance Coverage Analysis: We assess where PIP coverage ends and when the rideshare company’s insurance policy begins, ensuring no aspect of potential compensation goes overlooked.
- Negotiations with the Insurer: Whether dealing with a personal motor vehicle insurer or the rideshare company, our attorneys strive for a settlement that addresses your medical expenses, lost earnings, and future care needs.
- Litigation on a Contingency-Fee Basis: If pre-trial negotiations fail, our personal injury lawyer team is prepared to litigate your car accident case in court. You only pay legal fees if we secure a financial recovery on your behalf.
By partnering with an experienced Tallahassee attorney from our firm, you’ll have a dedicated ally focused on obtaining maximum compensation for your losses.
Navigating the aftermath of an Uber accident in Tallahassee can be complex due to the city’s busy roads, tourist traffic near Florida State University, and Florida’s no-fault insurance laws. Our team at Kaiser Romanello has compiled answers to common questions from Tallahassee clients to help you understand your rights and next steps after a rideshare collision.
What should I do immediately after an Uber accident in Tallahassee?
Prioritize Safety: Ensure everyone involved is safe. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident site, vehicle damage, and injuries. Collect contact and insurance information from all drivers and witnesses.
Report to Uber: Notify Uber through the app’s Safety Incident Reporting Line, found in the Ride Details or Help section.
Consult an Attorney: Contact a Tallahassee rideshare accident lawyer before speaking with insurance companies to protect your rights.
Who is liable for an Uber accident in Tallahassee?
Liability depends on the circumstances:
If the Uber driver is at fault: Uber’s $1 million liability insurance policy typically covers passenger injuries and damages.
If another driver is at fault: The other driver’s insurance is primary, but Uber’s policy may cover gaps if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
If fault is unclear: Uber’s insurance often steps in to protect passengers while liability is determined. Determining fault can be complex, so consulting an experienced attorney is crucial.
What types of compensation can I seek as an Uber accident victim?
As a passenger or third party injured in an Uber accident, you may be eligible to recover:
Medical Expenses: Current and future costs for treatment, hospital stays, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
Other Expenses: Out-of-pocket costs like transportation or home care. An attorney can help calculate the full value of your claim to avoid low settlement offers.
What types of injuries are common in Uber accidents?
Rideshare accidents can cause injuries similar to other car accidents, including:
Head and Brain Injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries from impact.
Broken Bones: Fractures, which may require surgery or cause long-term pain.
Neck and Back Injuries: Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or spinal cord damage, potentially leading to paralysis.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, or whiplash. Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable to severe injuries.
Does Uber’s insurance cover me as a passenger?
Yes, if you were a passenger in an Uber vehicle during the accident, you are covered by Uber’s $1 million liability insurance policy while the driver is “in-trip” (en route to pick you up or during the ride). This applies regardless of who caused the accident. However, accessing this coverage may involve dealing with insurance adjusters, so legal representation is recommended.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each Uber accident case in Tallahassee is unique, and outcomes depend on specific circumstances. Consult with a qualified attorney at Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys for personalized guidance. We do not guarantee specific results, and past performance does not indicate future outcomes.
Resources for Tallahassee Uber Accident Victims
If you’ve been involved in an Uber accident in Tallahassee, several resources can assist you in navigating the legal and recovery process for your accident claim. The Tallahassee Police Department (850-891-4200) provides crash reports for accidents within city limits. The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website (flhsmv.gov) offers crash data and insurance information. For court-related matters, the Leon County Courthouse (301 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32301) handles civil cases, including motor vehicle and rideshare accident claims. Our team at Kaiser Romanello can guide you through these resources and connect you with additional support, such as medical providers or victim advocacy groups, to aid your recovery.
Contact Information
If you’ve been injured in a vehicle accident in Tallahassee or Leon County, contact Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys at 844-877-8679 for a free case evaluation. Our Tallahassee Uber Accident Lawyer team serves Tallahassee and surrounding regions, working diligently to secure the compensation you deserve for your accident claim. From pinpointing at-fault independent contractors to navigating PIP coverage disputes, we’re prepared to advocate for your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.
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