Rideshare accidents come with unique challenges tied to insurance policies, driver classification, and evolving laws. A Jacksonville rideshare accident lawyer can explain how these factors affect your case and outline the legal steps required to pursue a claim.
At The Schiller Kessler Group, we are here to help you understand your rights, determine liability, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. With over 30 years of experience handling personal injury claims, we know what it takes to get our clients the money they need. Get started with a free consultation with a Jacksonville car accident lawyer today.
Why Hiring a Rideshare Accident Attorney in Jacksonville Is Critical for Establishing Liability
Rideshare accident claims are unlike standard car accident cases. One of the major distinctions is that rideshare companies, like Uber and Lyft, classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This distinction allows them to limit their legal responsibility when a driver causes an accident, creating additional hurdles for injured victims seeking compensation.
Despite these complications, there are legal avenues available for victims to pursue claims against not just the driver, but potentially the rideshare company itself or other involved parties. A knowledgeable Jacksonville personal injury lawyer can perform a thorough investigation to identify every liable party and explore all your legal options for recovering damages.
Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties may include:
- The rideshare driver
- The rideshare company
- Another negligent driver involved in the crash
- A third party who wasn’t directly involved in the crash but whose actions caused the crash
- A vehicle manufacturer
- The governmental department in charge of maintaining the roads in the area where the crash occurred
In many cases, the first step is to file a claim against the rideshare driver’s personal auto insurance provider. However, if that coverage is insufficient or the insurance company denies your claim, your attorney can help you explore alternatives, such as pursuing compensation through the rideshare company’s commercial policy or taking legal action through the courts.
More people choose The Schiller Kessler Group because they know that we're a cut above other personal injury law firms.
Jacksonville Rideshare Accident Victims Must Act Quickly
Florida law limits the amount of time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. Due to a law change in 2023, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in Florida is now two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file your case within this timeframe, your right to seek compensatory damages may be permanently lost.
Because of this strict deadline, it’s essential to contact a Jacksonville rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer will ensure all legal paperwork is filed properly and on time, and that vital evidence, such as video footage, vehicle damage, and witness statements, is collected and preserved while it’s still fresh.
Delaying legal action can significantly weaken your case. As time passes, physical evidence may disappear, and eyewitness memories can fade. By getting legal support early, you increase your chances of building a strong, evidence-backed claim.
No matter what time of day it is, you can contact The Schiller Kessler Group to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
How the Rideshare Company’s Insurance Applies in Jacksonville Rideshare Collisions
One of the most confusing aspects of rideshare accidents is determining whether you are able to file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurance provider. Uber and Lyft both offer tiered insurance coverage, and the level of coverage available depends on the working status of the driver at the time of the crash.
The Rideshare Driver Is Offline
If the rideshare driver was not logged into the app at the time of the accident, they are considered “off duty.” In these cases, only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. The rideshare company bears no legal responsibility for the actions of the driver under these circumstances.
If your damages exceed the limits of the driver’s private insurance coverage, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit against them directly. Unfortunately, recovering full compensation can be difficult if the driver has limited assets or minimal coverage.
Rideshare Driver Is Online and Waiting for a Ride Request
When the driver is logged into the app and waiting to be matched with a passenger, rideshare companies provide contingent liability coverage, which acts as secondary insurance. This coverage includes:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
However, before this coverage kicks in, you must first pursue compensation through the driver’s personal policy. If their insurer denies your claim or their coverage is insufficient, you can then pursue the contingent coverage provided by the rideshare company. If your damages exceed this coverage as well, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover the full value of your losses.
Driver Is Online and Has Accepted a Ride or Is Transporting a Passenger
Once a ride request is accepted, the rideshare company’s commercial insurance policy becomes fully active. This is true whether or not the driver has picked up a passenger yet. This policy provides coverage for up to $1 million in damages.
While this level of coverage offers better protection, it doesn’t guarantee a quick or easy payout. You’ll still need to prove fault, document your injuries, and demonstrate the value of your losses. Insurance companies may challenge your claim or offer lowball settlements. That’s why working with an experienced rideshare accident attorney in Jacksonville is so important.
Contact an Experienced Rideshare Accident Lawyer Serving Jacksonville Today
At The Schiller Kessler Group, we understand the intricacies of rideshare accidents in Jacksonville. Our firm has helped over 30,000 injury victims recover the compensation they deserve, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for you. Don’t let confusion or legal red tape stand between you and the financial recovery you need.
If you or a loved one were injured in a rideshare accident in Jacksonville, reach out to us today to schedule a free case evaluation and let us help you take the next step toward healing and holding those responsible accountable.
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