Miami Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys With the Experience You Deserve
Slightly more than a third of American adults have used a ridesharing service. An Uber or Lyft ride is a way for many people to get to work when their car is being repaired, and it is also a safe means of transportation for those who enjoy Miami’s vibrant nightlife. While most rideshare drivers are safe, accidents do happen.
When they do, they can leave passengers injured, or worse. That is where we step in. If you need a Miami Uber or Lyft accident lawyer, our experienced team can help. Panter, Panter & Sampedro is a leading personal injury law firm with dedicated lawyers that have extensive experience litigating rideshare accident cases against Uber, Lyft, and other services. Call us now at 305-662-6178 for a REQUEST YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW
When it comes to rideshare accident cases, choosing the right law firm can make all the difference. Here’s why Panter, Panter & Sampedro stands out:
- Proven Results: Our team has recovered millions of dollars for accident victims in Miami and throughout Florida.
- Specialized Expertise: We have extensive experience handling complex Uber and Lyft accident claims, ensuring you get the best representation possible.
- No Recovery, No Fee: We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
- Personalized Service: We work one-on-one with each client, providing compassionate and tailored legal support.
- 24/7 Availability: Accidents don’t follow a schedule, and neither do we. Our team is here for you whenever you need us.
Understanding Uber & Lyft Accident Cases
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation in Miami and across the nation. However, as their popularity has grown, so too have the number of accidents involving rideshare vehicles. Understanding the unique legal challenges of these cases is essential.
Unique Legal Challenges in Rideshare Accident Cases
Uber and Lyft accident cases differ from standard car accidents due to the involvement of commercial insurance policies, multiple parties, and unique liability rules. Rideshare companies operate under a tiered insurance system, with coverage depending on what “period” the driver was in at the time of the accident:
- Period 1: The driver is logged into the app but has not accepted a ride request. Coverage is limited ($50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident for injuries and $25,000 for property damage).
- Period 2: The driver is en route to pick up a passenger. Coverage increases to $1 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Period 3: The passenger is in the vehicle. Full coverage applies, including up to $1 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Types of Rideshare Accident Victims We Often See in Miami
Our Uber accident attorneys and Lyft accident lawyers represent a variety of victims, including:
- Passengers injured in rideshare vehicles.
- Rideshare drivers injured due to another motorist’s negligence.
- Pedestrians and cyclists struck by Uber or Lyft vehicles.
- Motorists involved in collisions with rideshare drivers.
Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Miami
Being involved in an Uber or Lyft accident can be a disorienting experience. In Miami, where ridesharing services are popular, knowing what to do after such an incident can be crucial in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the necessary assistance. The following is a list of steps to take after an Uber or Lyft accident in Miami:
Check for injuries: Check yourself and others involved in the accident for any injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
Ensure safety: Move to the shoulder of the road or other safe location, if possible, to avoid further risk of injury from oncoming traffic or other hazards.
Contact the police: Call the police to report the accident, regardless of its severity. A police report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes. Once law enforcement has completed their police report, request a copy.
Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident, including the Uber or Lyft driver.
Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any damages to vehicles and any visible injuries. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Report the accident to Uber or Lyft: Contact Uber or Lyft to report the accident and initiate their internal review process. Provide them with all the relevant details of the accident.
Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to seek medical attention after an accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can assess your condition.
Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the necessary details and cooperate with their investigation.
Avoid discussing fault: Refrain from admitting fault or making any statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. Stick to the facts when discussing the accident.
Consider legal representation: If you’ve been injured in the accident, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney who has experience with Uber and Lyft accidents. They can help protect your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents
Common injuries associated with rideshare (Uber and Lyft) accidents include whiplash, soft tissue injuries, broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Whiplash, a neck injury caused by a sudden jerking motion, is particularly common due to the nature of rear-end collisions, which are prevalent in urban areas where rideshares operate. Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, can also occur from the impact of a collision. Head injuries, ranging from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries, can result from the force of the accident. Additionally, broken bones and spinal cord injuries can occur, leading to long-term disabilities and complications. These injuries can have a significant impact on a person’s life, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These injuries can range from concussions to severe brain damage, often requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care. We work with medical experts to calculate the full impact of a TBI on your life and pursue maximum compensation.
- Back Injuries: Spinal injuries, herniated discs, and other back problems can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility. Our team ensures you receive compensation for medical expenses and the potential loss of earning capacity.
- Burns: Burns can occur in severe collisions and may result in permanent scarring or disfigurement. We fight to secure compensation for medical treatments, surgeries, and emotional trauma associated with burn injuries.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, such as the lungs or kidneys, can be life-threatening. We work quickly to ensure victims receive the compensation needed for emergency care and ongoing treatment.
- Broken Bones: From simple fractures to complex breaks, these injuries often require surgeries and lengthy recovery periods. We factor in all medical costs, including physical therapy, when calculating your claim.
- Fractures: Similar to broken bones, fractures can disrupt daily life and result in lost income. Our attorneys will seek compensation to cover all related costs.
- Whiplash: A common neck injury in rear-end collisions, whiplash can lead to chronic pain and stiffness. We’ll ensure your pain and suffering are fully accounted for in your case.
- Lacerations: Cuts and wounds from an accident can result in infections and scarring. We’ll advocate for compensation to cover medical treatments and any resulting cosmetic concerns.
- Bruises: While seemingly minor, bruises can sometimes indicate more serious underlying injuries. We ensure all injuries, big or small, are considered in your claim.
- Road Rash: Often seen in pedestrian or cyclist accidents, road rash can cause painful abrasions and scarring. Our team seeks fair compensation for these injuries.
- PTSD: Psychological trauma can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. We’ll work with mental health professionals to quantify the emotional impact of your accident and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Determining Liability in Miami Uber & Lyft Accidents
Car accident attorneys determine liability in Uber and Lyft accidents by examining various factors, such as the circumstances of the accident, the applicable laws and regulations, and the insurance coverage of the parties involved. To gather evidence, they often review police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Additionally, lawyers may investigate the driver’s history and training, as well as the maintenance records of the vehicles involved. In some cases, attorneys may also analyze data from the ridesharing company’s app, including GPS tracking and driver logs. By carefully examining these factors, car accident attorneys can build a strong case to establish liability and pursue compensation for their clients.
Liability in rideshare accidents can be complex. It often depends on factors such as:
- Driver Negligence: Was the Uber or Lyft driver at fault due to speeding, distracted driving, or another form of negligence?
- Third-Party Negligence: Did another motorist cause the accident?
- Vehicle Maintenance Issues: Was the rideshare vehicle properly maintained?
- Rideshare Company Responsibility: In some cases, Uber or Lyft may be held liable for inadequate driver vetting or insufficient insurance coverage.
Our Lyft accident attorneys and Uber accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify all liable parties and build a strong case on your behalf.
Let Panter, Panter & Sampedro Represent You in Your Uber or Lyft Accident Claim
Navigating the legal aftermath of a rideshare accident can be daunting. At Panter, Panter & Sampedro, we work with medical experts to assess the full extent of your injuries and ensure you receive proper compensation.
Statute of Limitations for Uber & Lyft Accident Claims in Florida: How Long Do I Have to File An Uber or Lyft Accident Claim?
On March 24, 2023, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill (HB) 837 reducing Florida’s statute of limitations for general negligence cases from four years to two years. In other words, a lawsuit alleging negligence that accrued after March 24, 2023, must now be filed within two years of the date of the alleged negligence or the claim will be forever barred. This means that individuals who have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Florida typically have up to two years to file a claim for compensation for their injuries and damages. It’s important to note that this time limit is strict, and if a claim is not filed within the statute of limitations, the injured party may lose the right to seek compensation. Therefore, individuals involved in Uber or Lyft accidents in Florida must consult with an experienced personal injury attorney promptly to understand their rights and ensure they meet all necessary deadlines.
Uber and Lyft Accident Frequently Asked Questions
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Rideshare Accident?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (past and future).
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Uber Accident Attorney?
We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our fees are only collected if we win your case.
Can I File a Claim if I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes, Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Call Panter, Panter & Sampedro Today
When you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, time is of the essence. Let an experienced Uber accident attorney or Lyft accident lawyer at Panter, Panter & Sampedro fight for your rights. With our proven track record, personalized approach, and commitment to justice, we’ll work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, Call us now at 305-662-6178 for a REQUEST YOUR FREE CASE REVIEW
