Uber/Lyft/Rideshare Accidents in Daytona Beach

Rideshare companies have made local travel more convenient than ever. While it is great to be the passenger instead of the driver, rideshare accidents are not uncommon—and are often legally challenging.

If you were involved in such a crash, understanding the basic steps to take can help you better protect your claim. After seeking the medical care you need, an important next step is to consult with a local car accident attorney who has experience with Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Daytona Beach.

Do Rideshare Drivers Have Additional Training or Skills?

When you use a rideshare service, you may feel confident knowing that a professional is transporting you. In reality, those who drive for Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies may not have any more experience than you or be any more familiar with the area.

Driving for Rideshare Companies

Ultimately, rideshare workers are only required to carry a driver’s license and pass a basic background check. Transporting other people for pay, however, is an immense responsibility, and the following factors increase the risk of a crash:

• Interacting with the app while driving
• Locating safe pickup and drop-off spots in areas that may be unfamiliar
• Locating unknown passengers who are waiting to be picked up
• Entering and exiting traffic frequently and making repeated stops

Negligence Behind the Wheel

To maximize their earnings, rideshare drivers often feel pressured to complete rides quickly and move on to the next passenger. In the process, some engage in less-than-safe practices, such as speeding and other forms of aggressive driving. In addition, the rideshare app itself can be a dangerous distraction.

Common forms of rideshare driver negligence that can result in a crash include:

• Driving while impaired
• Disregarding traffic laws
• Failing to adjust for road conditions or weather
• Driving while exhausted

If an Uber or Lyft driver’s negligence caused you harm in Daytona Beach, our knowledgeable rideshare accident lawyers can guide you toward a fair settlement.

How Do Rideshare Claims Differ From Other Car Accident Claims?

The state uses a no-fault system for car accidents. This means that as an injured driver, you must first turn to your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage after the crash, regardless of who caused the accident. However, PIP limits are relatively low, and if your losses exceed your coverage, you may be able to pursue additional compensation from the Uber driver’s insurance coverage.

This is where the filing process becomes more complex. Which insurance coverage applies depends on the Uber or Lyft driver’s activity at the time of the crash and their status on the rideshare app. If they were transporting a passenger or headed to a pickup, you can file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurer, which typically provides higher coverage limits.

However, if the driver was logged into the app but waiting for an assignment, their personal insurance provides the primary coverage. If your losses exceed those personal limits, the rideshare company’s policy may then apply. If the driver was not using the app at all, only their personal insurance applies.

A Daytona Beach rideshare collision attorney can help you determine which policy applies and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to after the crash.

Call a Daytona Beach Attorney To Discuss Your Rideshare Accident Claim

Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents in Daytona Beach often leave victims confronting serious losses. At Rue & Ziffra, we welcome the opportunity to use our experience and legal skill to pursue the compensation you deserve. Our team is in your community and on your side. Call us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.