Being involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in St. Petersburg can be confusing and overwhelming. Unlike typical car crashes, rideshare accidents involve additional layers of insurance, corporate policies, and liability questions that complicate the claims process.

Whether you were a passenger, a rideshare driver, or another party injured in a crash involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, this guide will walk you through what to do next. From understanding Florida’s insurance rules to taking legal action, we break down every step to help protect your rights and build a strong claim.

At Bernstein Law, we understand the unique challenges rideshare victims face. If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in St. Petersburg, call us at (727) 209-7957 today to speak directly with attorney Derek Bernstein and get the legal help you need.

Rideshare accident cases involve more than just two drivers exchanging insurance — they often include multiple layers of coverage, corporate policies, and Florida-specific legal rules. Being aware of these factors is essential to filing a successful claim.

Rideshare Insurance: How Coverage Works

Uber and Lyft use a tiered insurance system that changes depending on what the rideshare driver was doing at the time of the accident:

• App off: Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
• App on, no passenger yet: Uber or Lyft provides limited liability coverage (typically $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident).
• En route to a passenger or during a trip: Uber or Lyft offers up to $1 million in liability coverage, plus potential uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.

Determining the exact status of the app at the time of the crash is critical, as it affects which insurance policy applies and what compensation may be available.

Who’s Covered Under These Policies

Rideshare-related coverage doesn’t just apply to the driver:

• Passengers in Uber or Lyft vehicles are typically protected under the company’s $1 million liability policy once the trip has started.
• Rideshare drivers may rely on a combination of their personal policy and Uber/Lyft coverage, depending on their app status.
• Third parties, such as pedestrians, cyclists, or other drivers struck by a rideshare vehicle, may also be covered, depending on whether the rideshare driver was actively using the app.”

Identifying your role in the crash helps clarify which insurance applies and how to file your claim properly.

Florida’s No-Fault (PIP) Rules & When They Don’t Apply

Florida is a no-fault state, which means that Personal Injury Protection (PIP) applies first, regardless of who caused the accident. Whether you’re a rideshare passenger, an Uber or Lyft driver, or someone else involved in the crash, your own PIP coverage typically pays for medical expenses and some lost wages.

However, if your injuries meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold, you can step outside of the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault party. This allows you to seek additional damages such as pain and suffering, lost future earnings, and long-term or permanent medical costs.

Since rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurers and complex coverage rules, it’s crucial to distinguish when PIP applies and when it doesn’t to safeguard your legal rights.

Understanding Florida’s Modified Comparative Fault Law

In 2023, Florida revised its comparative fault law, capping compensation based on fault percentage. If you are found more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.

This means that any assigned fault in a rideshare accident can reduce your compensation proportionally or even bar recovery entirely. Given the frequent disputes over fault in rideshare crashes, careful evaluation of this law’s impact on your case is vital.

Florida’s no-fault system, layered insurance, and comparative fault law create a complex claims environment. An experienced lawyer can help navigate these challenges, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

A rideshare accident can be overwhelming and confusing. Taking quick, careful action after the crash can protect your health and legal rights.

Here’s what to do right away:

Prioritize Safety and Medical Attention

First and foremost, check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you feel okay, seek immediate medical care, symptoms can appear hours or days later. If it’s safe, move to the side of the road or another secure area to avoid further danger.

Call 911 and Request a Police Report

Always call 911 to report the accident. A police report creates an official record that supports your claim. Stay at the scene until officers arrive, answer their questions factually, and ask how to get a copy of the crash report for your records.

Collect Important Information

Gather contact and insurance details from everyone involved, including:

• Rideshare driver’s name and phone number
• Personal and rideshare company insurance information
• Screenshots of the trip showing the app status, pickup/drop-off locations, and ride times
• Contact info of any witnesses who saw the accident

Document the Scene with Photos

Take clear photos of:

• All vehicles involved, highlighting visible damage
• Road conditions, street signs, and traffic signals
• Any visible injuries you or others may have

These images serve as powerful evidence for your claim.

Don’t Admit Fault or Post on Social Media

Avoid admitting blame at the scene, even casually. Also, do not post about the accident on social media, as insurance companies might use your posts against you later.

Save This Step-by-Step Post-Rideshare Accident Checklist

Stress can make it hard to remember every detail. Screenshot this checklist to ensure you don’t miss any important steps.

Taking these actions promptly can protect your well-being and strengthen your legal case. After you’ve handled these steps, consulting an experienced St. Petersburg rideshare accident lawyer can provide the guidance you need to navigate the complex claims process ahead.

After a rideshare crash, one often overlooked but critical step is properly notifying the platform involved. Whether you were a passenger, driver, or third party, alerting Uber or Lyft starts a formal record of the incident and may trigger insurance coverage. Here’s how to do it and what to expect.

How to Report a Rideshare Accident in St. Petersburg

Both Uber and Lyft make it relatively easy to report accidents through their apps:

• In the Uber app: Go to “Your Trips,” select the relevant ride, and choose “Report an Issue” > “I was in an accident.”
• In the Lyft app: Tap the ride from your trip history, then select “Get Help” > “Report a Safety Issue.”

If you weren’t the passenger or driver, such as a pedestrian or another motorist, you can also report the crash through Uber’s or Lyft’s official support websites.

What to Expect After Reporting Your Rideshare Accident

Once you report the accident, either the rideshare company or its insurance provider may follow up for additional information. They might request:

• A written or recorded statement
• Photos from the scene
• Trip receipts or ride history
• Medical documents related to your injuries

Remember, these companies and their insurers protect their bottom line, not your best interests. Be cautious when communicating and avoid sharing too much without legal guidance.

Why Legal Guidance Matters Early

What you say to Uber, Lyft, or their insurers can directly affect your ability to receive compensation. Even small misstatements, like minimizing your injuries or guessing about fault, can be used against you.

That’s why it’s wise to speak with a personal injury attorney before engaging further. At Bernstein Law, we help rideshare accident victims navigate this process with confidence. We handle communication with Uber or Lyft on your behalf to keep your rights and recovery as the priority.

Navigating a rideshare injury claim is rarely simple, especially in Florida, where state-specific laws, corporate insurers, and multi-layered coverage policies add complexity. At Bernstein Law, we don’t treat your case like a number. We deliver focused, attorney-led representation designed to stand up to big insurance companies and achieve real results for Florida victims.

Direct Access to Attorney Derek Bernstein

When you hire Bernstein Law, your case doesn’t get handed off to a case manager or buried in a legal assembly line. You speak directly with attorney Derek Bernstein from day one through resolution. Every legal strategy is tailored to your unique circumstances — no cookie-cutter approaches. You get personalized legal guidance from someone who’s genuinely invested in your outcome.

Experience with Florida Rideshare Insurance Disputes

Florida’s insurance system is unique, and rideshare claims add an extra layer of complexity. We understand how Uber and Lyft coverage interacts with Florida’s no-fault rules, know how to identify when your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold to pursue a fault-based claim, and have extensive experience pushing back against delay and denial tactics commonly used by national insurers targeting Florida victims.

We Build Cases That Stand Up to Corporate Insurance Teams

Winning your case starts with building it the right way, and that’s where we excel. We thoroughly investigate details like the driver’s app status to pinpoint the applicable coverage, gather and preserve crucial evidence such as app data, police reports, and medical records, and negotiate assertively with corporate insurers, always prepared to take your case to trial if needed.

Highly Experienced in the Pinellas Courts

We’re based in Florida, which makes a real difference. We know the local court systems in St. Petersburg and throughout the state, understand how local traffic laws, law enforcement, and area medical providers can impact your case, and combine personalized one-on-one support with the strength of a statewide legal advocate.

At Bernstein Law, we’ve built our reputation by putting Florida clients first, not case volume. If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident, we’re here to listen, guide, and fight for the recovery you deserve.

Navigating rideshare insurance after a crash can be overwhelming. Here are answers to some of the most common questions Florida accident victims have about Uber and Lyft coverage.

What Kind of Insurance Does Uber or Lyft Provide in Florida?

Answer: Uber and Lyft provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on whether the driver was off duty, waiting for a ride, or actively transporting a passenger. These tiers determine which policy applies and how much compensation may be available in the event of an accident.

I Was a Passenger in an Uber or Lyft. Do I Have to Use My Own Insurance First?

Answer: Yes. Because Florida follows a no-fault system, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage typically applies first, even if you were not driving. However, if your injuries are severe enough to meet the legal threshold, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through the rideshare company’s insurance.

What If the Rideshare Driver was Off-duty During the Crash?

Answer: If the rideshare driver was not logged into the app at the time of the crash, then their personal auto insurance is the only coverage available. In these cases, Uber or Lyft will not provide any insurance support, which can complicate the claims process if the driver’s coverage is limited or denied.

Even when the details seem straightforward, rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurance layers and coverage disputes. If you’re unsure which policy applies to your situation, an attorney can help clarify your options and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Rideshare accidents often leave victims unsure of their legal rights, especially when corporate policies and independent contractors are involved. Here are answers to the most common questions about liability and what steps you can take.

Can I Sue Uber or Lyft Directly After an Accident?

Answer: In most cases, you can’t sue Uber or Lyft directly because their drivers are classified as independent contractors. However, you may still have a valid claim against the rideshare company’s insurance if the driver was actively using the app. Specific legal exceptions do exist, which is why it’s important to consult an attorney about your case.

Can I File a Claim if I Was Hit By an Uber or Lyft Driver?

Answer: Yes. If a rideshare driver struck you while you were walking, biking, or driving, you may be able to file a claim, especially if the driver was logged into the app. The driver’s status at the time of the crash will determine which insurance policy applies and how much compensation may be available.

Do I Need a Lawyer After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Florida?

Answer: While it’s not required, hiring an attorney is often critical in rideshare cases. Insurance companies may dispute fault, minimize injuries, or delay claims. An experienced Florida lawyer can protect your rights, deal with the insurer, and help you recover the compensation you’re entitled to.

Legal guidance can be the difference between a denied claim and a fair outcome. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t wait to get the answers and support you need.

Dealing with a rideshare accident claim can feel overwhelming, especially with strict deadlines and legal procedures involved. These frequently asked questions can help you avoid costly missteps and protect your right to fair compensation.

How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Injury Claim in Florida?

Answer: In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in Florida. However, certain factors could shorten or extend this deadline, so it’s important to take action early and consult with an attorney.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Rideshare Accident Claim?

Answer: You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and future expenses linked to long-term injuries. The specific damages depend on the circumstances of your case and the insurance coverage available.

What Should I Avoid Doing After a Rideshare Accident?

Answer: Don’t admit fault at the scene, post about the accident on social media, or speak to insurance adjusters without legal guidance. These actions could be used to reduce or deny your claim.
Even a small error can impact your recovery. The sooner you understand your legal options and get support, the stronger your case will be.

When your health, finances, and future are on the line after a rideshare accident, the law firm you choose matters. Here’s why injured Floridians turn to Bernstein Law with confidence.

Why Choose Bernstein Law for My Uber or Lyft Accident Case?

Answer: At Bernstein Law, you’re never just a case number. From day one, you work directly with attorney Derek Bernstein — not passed off to a junior associate or case manager. We bring a deep understanding of Florida’s complex rideshare insurance rules, a hands-on approach to gathering evidence, and a proven strategy for holding corporate insurers accountable. Our team is committed to building the strongest case possible and fighting for the outcome you deserve.

We don’t just represent rideshare accident victims, we advocate for them every step of the way.

Rideshare accidents bring unique challenges that require swift, skilled legal action to protect your interests. The sooner you have an experienced attorney by your side, the better your chances of a fair outcome and maximum compensation.

Bernstein Law offers a free consultation to review your case and help you understand your best steps forward with clear, honest advice tailored to your needs.

If you’ve been hurt in an Uber or Lyft crash in St. Petersburg, call Bernstein Law now at (727) 209-7957. Let’s make sure you’re not left with the medical bills and unanswered questions. You deserve an advocate who puts you first.