The surge in peer-to-peer rideshare services has many benefits for passengers who want an easy way to book a ride, whether it be to the airport or to enjoy Miami nightlife. Companies such as Lyft and Uber both offer the convenience of arranging a ride via a phone app connected to your credit card. No need to call a dispatch office or to pay the driver. There are many drivers available, particularly on weekends and in the congested Miami metro area, making these services very popular. This has led to a rise in collisions involving Lyft and Uber cars. The two companies unfortunately do not have the same coverage that a conventional taxi company is legally bound to carry.
Rideshare companies have a different relationship with their drivers which significantly changes insurance coverage requirements. These companies do not currently have to meet the usual licensing and regulatory standards that a conventional taxi company must comply with. They use independent contractors to provide the service, using their own vehicles and their own auto insurance. At Goldberg and Rosen, we have handled numerous cases against Uber. These accident cases are complex due to the fact that insurance coverage issues become clouded due to the relationship between the Uber or Lyft driver and the company.
These companies see themselves only as a connection point between driver and passenger. As there is no employer-employee relationship, liability for damages is considered to be an issue between driver and passenger. As some of the best Uber/Lyft accident lawyers in Miami, we have helped thousands of clients obtain compensation for injuries. Being involved in an Uber or Lyft accident requires the services of a lawyer with experience in highly technical insurance laws. Unlike traditional taxi companies which must adhere to strict insurance requirements, rideshare companies are currently organized to avoid having to insure drivers or their vehicles, since they are privately owned.
