Even with taxi and ridesharing services such as Uber, accidents can occur. When wrecks happen and the customer is injured, they may be able to file a claim for compensation. However, because the Uber or taxi driver is contracted through another company, unique legal issues may arise.
If you were injured in an accident while being transported in an Uber or taxi, a West Palm Beach Uber/taxi accident lawyer could help you understand the responsibilities of the Uber/taxi driver and your potential right to financial recovery. Contact a dedicated car wreck attorney who could help you potentially hold your Uber or taxi driver accountable.
Legal Requirements for West Palm Beach Uber Drivers
If a passenger sustains injuries in a car accident while riding in a taxi, the taxi company has coverage that can provide compensation for the rider’s injuries. Situations involving an Uber driver may be more complex, however, because they operate their own vehicles with their own car insurance policies. This raises questions about whether the driver’s insurance company or Uber’s insurance company is liable. A West Palm Beach Uber/taxi accident lawyer could explain the law, passed in May 2017, that provides requirements with respect to Uber driver insurance coverage and background checks.
Uber Laws
CS/HB 221, which is applicable throughout the state of Florida, ensures that an Uber driver or other transportation network company driver has sufficient coverage if a passenger is injured in an accident.
The law requires an Uber driver who is logged into their account but is not carrying a passenger to have a coverage of $100,000 for death and bodily injury per incident, $50,000 for death and bodily injury per person, and $25,000 for property damage. If the Uber driver has an Uber passenger in the vehicle, the law requires primary automobile liability coverage of at least $1 million for death, bodily injury, and property damage.
The new Uber law also requires all Florida Uber drivers to submit to a background check. Driving for Uber is not permitted if the potential driver has been convicted of:
- A felony
- A DUI misdemeanor
- A misdemeanor for reckless driving or hit and run
- A misdemeanor for fleeing a police officer
- A misdemeanor for violent or sexual offenses
What to Do After an Uber/Taxi Accident
Despite the new insurance requirements imposed on Uber drivers and the existing insurance requirements for taxi drivers, pursuing a personal injury claim involving Uber/taxi accidents can present unique challenges. For example, if the Uber or taxi driver did not cause the accident, the claimant should pursue the driver who did cause the accident to gain compensation from their insurance company. However, if that driver was underinsured or not insured at all, the Uber or taxi driver’s insurance may be responsible for the passenger’s damages. This is one situation where a West Palm Beach Uber/taxi lawyer may be necessary, as the driver and Uber will likely try to argue they are not liable.
In some cases, it is possible to pursue a claim for damages against the taxi company, which employs its drivers. If an Uber is involved, this may be more complicated because its drivers are defined as independent contractors. This means Uber itself cannot be held liable for the driver’s negligent or reckless driving.
Let a West Palm Beach Uber/Taxi Accident Attorney Help
If you were injured while in an Uber or taxi, a West Palm Beach Uber/taxi accident lawyer could help you navigate the personal injury laws regarding Uber and taxi accidents. An attorney could talk to you about your legal options and help you seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Call today to set up a free consultation to learn more.
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