When Are Rideshare Drivers Responsible for Accidents in Miami?

Highly Experienced Miami Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers Serving Passengers Hurt in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare drivers play a growing role in Miami’s transportation system, but accidents involving Uber and Lyft drivers are fairly common and can raise complex questions about who is liable. If you’ve been involved in a crash with a rideshare driver—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another motorist—you may be wondering when the driver is personally responsible for your injuries and damages. Understanding the specific circumstances that determine responsibility is crucial for pursuing the compensation you need. The Miami Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada are here to help you every step of the way.

Rideshare Drivers Are Independent Contractors

One key factor that complicates rideshare accident cases is the employment status of Uber and Lyft drivers. These companies classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification allows the companies to shift much of the liability to the drivers themselves.

So, while Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers during specific phases of their rideshare activities, drivers may still bear personal responsibility for damages under certain conditions.

When Rideshare Drivers Are Personally Liable for an Accident

Rideshare drivers may be held personally responsible for accidents in the following situations:

1. The Driver Is Not Logged into the Uber or Lyft App

If a rideshare driver is using their vehicle for personal purposes and isn’t logged into the app at the time of the accident, Uber or Lyft’s insurance may not apply. In this case, the driver’s personal auto insurance is responsible for covering your damages.

If the driver lacks sufficient coverage or their policy excludes coverage for accidents involving commercial activities, you may need to pursue a Miami car accident lawsuit against the driver directly to recover your losses including pain and suffering.

2. Negligence or Reckless Driving

Rideshare drivers are expected to follow the same rules of the road as any other driver. If a rideshare driver causes an accident due to their negligent or reckless driving—such as speeding, texting while driving, or running a red light—they can be held personally responsible for the damages they cause.

Even if the driver is logged into the app or transporting a passenger, their actions may result in additional claims against them in addition to what the rideshare company’s insurance covers.

3. Driving Under the Influence

Rideshare companies have strict policies prohibiting drivers from operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but violations unfortunately still occur. If an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident while impaired, they may face both criminal charges and personal liability for the damages they cause by their actions.

While Uber or Lyft’s insurance may provide coverage during these incidents, the driver’s actions could expose them to additional lawsuits, potentially including punitive damages.

4. Inadequate Maintenance of the Vehicle

Rideshare drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles to ensure they’re safe for passengers and other road users. If an accident occurs due to a mechanical failure—such as faulty brakes or worn tires—the driver may be held liable if they failed to maintain their car properly.

In such cases, you might be able to pursue compensation from the driver, especially if their negligence directly contributed to the crash and your resulting injuries.

Shared Responsibility: When Multiple Parties Are Liable

In some cases, responsibility for a rideshare accident isn’t limited to just the driver. Liability may be shared between the driver, Uber or Lyft, and other parties, such as another motorist or even a vehicle manufacturer. Here are a few scenarios where shared responsibility may arise:

• Another Driver’s Negligence: If another driver’s actions contributed to the crash, their insurance may share liability for your damages alongside the rideshare driver.
• Defective Vehicle Parts: If a faulty part, such as a defective tire, airbag, or brake system, contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the vehicle or part could be held partially responsible.
• Employer Negligence: While rare, if Uber or Lyft failed to adequately vet a driver or ignored complaints about unsafe behavior, they may share liability for the accident.

Get Started on Your Case by Speaking with Our Experienced Miami Rideshare Lawyers

Determining responsibility in a rideshare accident often involves untangling complicated insurance policies, investigating the behavior of multiple drivers, and understanding Florida’s liability laws. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, our Miami Uber and Lyft accident attorneys are committed to helping accident victims identify all potentially liable parties and recover the full compensation they need to move forward. If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver, don’t wait to seek help. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 305-448-8585 or complete our secure online contact form today. We do not get paid unless and until there is a financial recovery.

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