Tampa Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer

Were You Riding in an Uber or Lyft When a Crash Left You Injured in Tampa, FL?

Uber and Lyft are popular ridesharing options, especially in such a crowded and lively city as Tampa, FL. Ultimately, Uber and Lyft have contributed to the decrease in drunk driving accidents, and the drivers have to meet certain safety criteria before being hired, but this does not mean that Uber and Lyft vehicles are immune from collisions, or from legal consequences of negligence. If the carelessness of a driver caused you harm (either as a passenger, pedestrian, or driver of another vehicle), The Florida Law Group can help you fight for justice in the form of fair financial compensation.

Rideshare Laws in Florida

Florida law treats Uber, Lyft, and other transportation network companies (TNCs) differently than traditional taxi services. Rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees, which complicates the liability process in an accident.

Under Florida Statutes Section 627.748, rideshare companies must maintain specific insurance coverage for their drivers, depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

Driver is Logged Off the App

When the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, they are operating the vehicle for personal use. In these situations, the driver’s personal auto insurance applies, just like any other motor vehicle accident. Neither Uber nor Lyft is liable in these circumstances.

Driver is Logged In but Has Not Accepted a Ride

If the driver is actively available for rides but hasn’t accepted one, Uber or Lyft provides contingent liability coverage. This means their policy steps in only if the driver’s personal auto insurance does not fully cover the damages. This tier of coverage includes:

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

Claims under this type of coverage often lead to disputes and require a skilled Tampa rideshare accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.

Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Has a Passenger in the Vehicle

Once a ride has been accepted or a passenger is in the car, Uber and Lyft provide a $1 million commercial liability insurance policy. This coverage is much more comprehensive and covers injuries to passengers, third-party drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

In addition to liability coverage, Uber and Lyft offer uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) protection, which may come into play if you are injured in a hit-and-run or the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.

FAQs About Uber & Lyft Accidents in Tampa, FL

What should I do if I’m injured in a rideshare accident?

Seek immediate medical attention, report the accident to the police, and document everything (photos, contact info, app screenshots). Then contact a Tampa rideshare accident attorney to evaluate your claim and protect your rights.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?

Generally, no. Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, which limits direct liability. However, their insurance policies can still be accessed for compensation depending on the driver’s status during the accident.

Is there a deadline for filing a claim?

Yes. Florida law now imposes a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including rideshare accidents. Don’t delay—contact a lawyer as soon as possible to avoid losing your right to compensation.

What types of damages can I recover?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed in the accident)

How The Florida Law Group Can Help

Rideshare accident claims often involve multiple insurance companies, disputed liability, and complex legal issues. At The Florida Law Group, we thoroughly investigate your accident, gather critical evidence, and pursue every available source of compensation. Whether negotiating with Uber or Lyft’s insurance providers or taking your case to court, we provide aggressive, personalized legal representation.

We represent all types of victims in Uber and Lyft accidents, including:

• Passengers in rideshare vehicles
• Other motorists hit by a rideshare vehicle
• Pedestrians and cyclists
• Rideshare drivers injured by another negligent party