Jacksonville Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers
Helping Victims of Rideshare Accidents Get The Justice They Deserve
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft offer the convenience of an easy journey with just a few taps. But when a driver’s negligence leads to a crash, the journey to justice becomes incredibly complex. Victims—whether they are passengers, pedestrians, or occupants of another vehicle—are often left injured and confused, facing off against massive corporations and their powerful insurance companies.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you are not alone. The attorneys at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. have the experience, resources, and insider knowledge to fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
Contact our Jacksonville rideshare accident lawyers by calling (904) 295-1050 for a free, confidential consultation.
The Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. Advantage: Using an Insider’s Perspective to Fight for You
Rideshare accident claims are not like typical car accident cases. They involve layers of corporate insurance policies and legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts. To win, you need a law firm that knows the other side’s playbook.
Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys and former prosecutors. This gives us a distinct strategic advantage. We have firsthand experience with how insurance companies evaluate, defend, and attempt to devalue claims. We use this insider’s perspective to anticipate their tactics, build a more powerful and resilient case on your behalf, and level the playing field against corporate giants like Uber and Lyft.
In this video, our client Ron explains why he chose Edwards & Ragatz, P.A.:
How Rideshare Injury Compensation Works in Florida
After a crash, determining who pays for your injuries depends on the driver's status at the time of the accident. Florida law mandates specific insurance coverage for rideshare drivers, which is broken into different periods:
- Driver is Offline: If the driver’s app is off, they are considered a private citizen. In this case, you would file a claim against their personal auto insurance policy.
- Driver is Available (Waiting for a Ride Request): Once a driver logs into the app and is available to accept rides, a lower level of the rideshare company's insurance is triggered. This typically includes liability coverage for injuries you cause to others if your own insurance isn't enough.
- Driver is En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or Has a Passenger: From the moment a driver accepts a ride request until the passenger exits the vehicle, the full weight of the rideshare company's commercial insurance policy applies. This includes at least $1 million in liability coverage, which can be used to compensate injured passengers, pedestrians, or people in other vehicles.
Our skilled Jacksonville attorneys are adept at investigating the driver's exact status to ensure we pursue compensation from all available insurance policies.
Who Is Liable in a Jacksonville Rideshare Accident?
Determining liability in a rideshare crash isn’t always straightforward. Depending on the details, one or more parties may be responsible:
- The rideshare driver – if their negligence (like distracted driving or speeding) caused the accident
- The rideshare company (Uber or Lyft) – if the driver was actively logged into the app and carrying passengers or en route to pick one up, the company’s $1 million insurance policy may apply
- Other drivers or third parties – such as another motorist, a pedestrian, or even a vehicle manufacturer in the case of defective parts
Our Jacksonville rideshare accident lawyers can review the circumstances of your crash and determine whose insurance should cover your losses.
What To Do If You Are Involved in a Rideshare Accident
The steps you take immediately after an accident are crucial for protecting your health and your legal rights.
- Seek Medical Attention: Your well-being is the top priority. Call 911 and get immediate medical care, even if you feel fine. Some serious injuries may not show symptoms right away.
- Report the Accident: Ensure a police report is filed. This creates an official record of the incident.
- Document Everything: If you are able, take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Gather Information: Collect contact and insurance information from all drivers involved, as well as contact details for any witnesses.
- Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters: Avoid giving any recorded statements to an insurance company. They are trained to use your words against you. Let your legal representatives manage these communications to protect your interests.
Pursuing the Full Compensation You Deserve
Like any motor vehicle accident, multiple parties may be at fault, making the legal process complex. Each party involved may have different insurance coverage policies, particularly the rideshare company, adding layers to claims proceedings. In Florida, you must file a claim within 2 years of the date of the accident for any personal injury claims.
As a victim, you may be entitled to recover compensation for a wide range of damages, including:
- Current and Future Medical Expenses: This includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and any ongoing care.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you lost while unable to work.
- Loss of Future Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your job or earning what you did before the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: For repairs or replacement of your vehicle or other damaged property.
Choose a Jacksonville Rideshare Accident Attorney with Proven Results
When choosing an attorney for your Jacksonville rideshare injury case, you need a competent and compassionate lawyer with a proven track record of taking on complex cases and winning. Our firm has secured record-setting, nationally recognized verdicts for our clients, and we bring that same relentless dedication to every case we handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a rideshare accident lawyer help me?
Our seasoned lawyers can guide you through the complexities of a rideshare accident claim, ensuring each step adheres to Florida's legal framework. From managing insurance negotiations to collecting and presenting evidence, our team works tirelessly to uphold your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly for an accident?
Suing the rideshare company itself can be challenging because they classify their drivers as independent contractors. However, it may be possible if the company was negligent in its own right, such as by hiring a driver with a known dangerous driving record. The primary route for compensation is typically through the company's substantial commercial insurance policy.
How much is my rideshare accident settlement worth?
Every case is unique, and there is no average settlement amount. The value of your claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the total cost of your medical bills and lost wages, the long-term impact on your life, and the available insurance coverage. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to calculate the full value of your damages to ensure we fight for a fair settlement.
How long does an Uber accident settlement take?
The timeline can vary significantly, from a few months to over a year. Simple cases with clear liability and minor injuries may resolve quickly. More complex cases involving severe injuries or disputes over fault will take longer, especially if a lawsuit needs to be filed. Our priority is to secure the best possible outcome for you, not the fastest one.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
We are looking forward to speaking with you regarding your potential rideshare situation and working toward the healing you deserve. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we strive to provide unmatched compassion with record-setting results for each of our clients. Our approach ensures you are informed, empowered, and prioritized every step of the way.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, every second counts. Contact our Jacksonville Uber and Lyft accident lawyer today for your free and confidential consultation!
