Close Menu
Home > Lyft Accidents

Orlando Lyft Accident Lawyers

Being injured in a Lyft accident in Orlando can be confusing and stressful. You may be dealing with serious medical issues, mounting bills, and insurance companies that seem more interested in protecting their bottom line than in fairly compensating you. At Orlando Accident Attorneys, we provide personal, hands-on legal representation, ensuring that you work directly with an experienced attorney who will advocate fiercely on your behalf. Our Orlando Lyft accident lawyers combine our deep knowledge of Florida law with a concierge approach to client service, giving each client the attention they deserve while taking on insurance companies that often try to minimize or deny claims.

Lyft Accidents and Insurance Coverage

Florida’s personal injury system adds complexity to rideshare accidents in Orlando. As a no-fault state, the law generally requires individuals to rely on their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance for initial medical expenses, regardless of fault. However, when a Lyft driver is involved, the insurance landscape changes depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

  • Driver not logged into the Lyft app: Only the driver’s personal insurance applies. Lyft’s coverage is not triggered.
  • Driver logged in but waiting for a ride request: Lyft offers contingent liability coverage, which includes up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.
  • Driver en route to pick up a passenger or during a trip: Lyft’s insurance increases to $1 million for liability coverage.

Insurance companies often try to argue that a driver’s personal insurance, rather than Lyft’s policies, applies, or that injuries are less severe than they actually are. An attorney experienced in Lyft accidents can make sure these companies do not take advantage of the confusion.

Florida Law on Transportation Network Companies

Florida law regulates Lyft and other Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) through Chapter 627.748 of the Florida Statutes. Under this law, Lyft drivers must submit to background checks, provide vehicle and personal information, and meet minimal eligibility requirements. While these regulations are intended to protect passengers, they do not require advanced training or formal safety education for drivers. This can lead to situations where inexperienced or unprepared drivers are operating vehicles in complex traffic conditions, posing risks to passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians.

Lyft Driver Requirements and Risks

Similarly, Lyft’s requirements to become a driver in Florida are relatively light. Drivers must be at least 25 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and pass a background check. Their vehicle must meet age and safety criteria, including owning a 2009 or newer 4-door vehicle with 5-8 seats, excluding taxis, stretch limousines, or non-Express Drive rental vehicles.

While these requirements ensure that drivers have a basic level of eligibility, they do not mandate any form of comprehensive driver education or training. Drivers are not required to undergo defensive driving courses, possess advanced driving skills training, or have any other form of specialized instruction. This lack of formal training can result in drivers being ill-prepared to handle challenging driving conditions or emergency situations, potentially leading to accidents.

Added Dangers from Rideshare Drivers

Several factors contribute to the increased risk of accidents involving Lyft drivers:

  • Fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours, often driving after completing full-time jobs. This extended driving time can lead to fatigue, impairing reaction times and judgment. Fatigued drivers may misjudge distances, speed limits, or stop signs, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
  • Unfamiliarity with Routes: Rideshare drivers may not be familiar with all areas they are driving to, especially if they are new to the region or are driving in less familiar neighborhoods. This unfamiliarity can lead to navigation errors and increased accident risk.
  • Distractions from Technology: The use of GPS devices and the Lyft app can distract drivers from the road. Constantly checking the app for ride requests, navigation instructions, or other information diverts attention from driving, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • Economic Pressures: Drivers may feel compelled to accept every ride request to maximize earnings, leading them to drive during late hours or in adverse conditions. This pressure can result in drivers pushing themselves beyond safe limits, contributing to accidents.

Understanding these risks is essential for both drivers and passengers. If you’ve been involved in an accident with a Lyft driver, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who understands the complex rideshare insurance requirements and can ensure your rights are protected.

Why Choose Orlando Accident Attorneys

Orlando Accident Attorneys is a boutique personal injury firm that provides clients with dedicated, white-glove service. Clients work directly with an experienced attorney, not just case managers or paralegals. We bring extensive trial experience and a deep understanding of Florida law to every case. Our attorneys know how insurance companies operate and will fight to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Unlike larger firms, our boutique approach allows us to devote personal attention to each client. We respond quickly, guide you through the process, and aggressively advocate for your rights at every stage of your claim.

Serving Throughout Orlando

We serve clients throughout Orlando, ensuring you have access to local attorneys who understand the region and its roads. Areas we serve include:

  • Winter Park
  • Dr. Phillips
  • Lake Nona
  • Baldwin Park
  • College Park
  • Audubon
  • Thornton
  • Winter Garden
  • Celebration
  • Oviedo

Whether your accident occurred in a busy downtown intersection or a quieter residential street, our team is ready to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is liable in a Lyft accident?

Liability can depend on whether the driver was logged into the Lyft app, whether the driver was en route to pick up a passenger, or whether the driver’s negligence or that of another driver played a role. We investigate all parties to identify those responsible.

2. How do rideshare insurance policies interact with personal insurance?

Florida law and Lyft’s policies create a complex interaction. Our attorneys determine which insurance applies and ensure you can access the full coverage available.

3. Can fatigue or distraction be used as evidence?

Yes. Evidence of fatigue, distraction from the Lyft app, or unfamiliarity with the area can support your claim by showing the driver was negligent.

4. Does Lyft provide compensation for psychological trauma?

Victims can pursue compensation for emotional distress, including PTSD, alongside physical injuries.

5. What makes Orlando Accident Attorneys different?

We provide boutique, hands-on service. You work directly with experienced attorneys who guide you personally, fight for your rights, and ensure insurance companies cannot take advantage of you.

Contact Our Orlando Lyft Accident Lawyers Today

If you’ve been injured in a Lyft accident in Orlando, you need professional legal assistance to recover the full value of your claim. At Orlando Accident Attorneys, we combine compassionate guidance with zealous advocacy to secure the compensation you deserve. Call now for a free consultation and let our attorneys help you get started on your path to recovery.