Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law | April 22, 2025 | Uber Accidents
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have made getting around Florida easier than ever. Whether you’re visiting the Sunshine State or want a safe way to get home after a night out, these services offer convenience at your fingertips. But there are important safety and practical considerations to keep in mind. Here are five key things you should know before using Uber or Lyft in Florida.
1. You Should Always Verify the Driver and Vehicle
Safety should begin before you even step into the car. Always double-check your driver’s details when they arrive. Both Uber and Lyft provide information about your driver and vehicle, including their name, photo, car model, color, and license plate number. Make sure all these details match before you enter the vehicle.
The concern? There are many cases of people driving for Uber or Lyft using someone else’s identity. This usually involves someone signing up for the service using stolen driver’s license information. This is usually done by someone who does not have a license or would not be accepted due to their criminal history or driving record.
2. Insurance Coverage Can Be Complicated
Rideshare insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status in the app at the time of an accident. The large commercial policies are generally only in effect when the rideshare driver is en route to pick up a passenger or while transporting a passenger. Otherwise, reduced coverage may be in effect, or even the driver’s personal auto insurance.
If another driver caused your Lyft or Uber accident and they are uninsured, the rideshare company’s commercial uninsured/underinsured coverage should cover you as a passenger.
However, it gets more complicated with Florida’s no-fault insurance laws. If you have your own car insurance policy or have a family member in your household with coverage, you will go through your own policy for PIP benefits. You can only file a claim against the rideshare policy, or another at-fault driver, if you meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold or if another exception applies.
Because of this complexity, it’s highly recommended that you contact a car accident lawyer for a free consultation. That way, you can learn about your best path forward for recovering the most amount of compensation possible.
3. Drivers Undergo Background and Driving Checks
Uber and Lyft require drivers to pass background checks and have clean driving records. Drivers must provide their social security numbers, driver’s license details, and undergo regular screenings.
However, the system isn’t foolproof. Unfortunately, there have been instances where drivers with criminal records or serious driving violations have slipped through the cracks.
4. Uber and Lyft Offer Safety Features for Riders
Both Uber and Lyft have built-in safety features to keep riders secure. A popular tool is the ability to share your trip with a friend or family member directly from the app. This way, someone you trust can track your location and know exactly when you arrive safely.
Other safety features include emergency assistance buttons. In an urgent situation, you can quickly connect with emergency responders through the app. Lyft offers a Smart Trip Check-in feature, which detects unexpected delays or stops, and Uber has RideCheck, which checks on you if your ride goes off course or stops for too long.
Using these tools can add another layer of safety to your rideshare experience.
5. Don’t Set Your Address as a Destination
To be safe, do not use your exact address as your pick-up or drop-off location. Instead, set your destination as a safe, well-lit location nearby or at least a few houses away. This helps protect your privacy and keeps strangers from knowing exactly where you live.
After you exit the vehicle, wait until the driver leaves before walking to your home. This simple precaution helps ensure your privacy and security, especially if you’re riding alone or late at night.
An Attorney Can Help After an Accident
Using Uber and Lyft in Florida can be safe, convenient, and hassle-free if you follow these basic guidelines. By verifying driver details, using available safety features, and protecting your home address, you can reduce the risk of being the victim of crime. If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, get in touch with an attorney today for a free consultation to learn about your options.
Contact an Orlando personal injury lawyer at Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law Today
For more information, please contact Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law to schedule a free consultation. We have five convenient locations in Florida, including Orlando, Palm Bay, Melbourne, Cocoa, and Titusville.
Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Orlando, FL Office
633 E Colonial Dr
Orlando, FL 32803
Phone: (407) 801-3000
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4620 Lipscomb Street N.E Suite #3K
Palm Bay, FL 32905
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1600 W Eau Gallie Blvd #205j
Melbourne, FL 32935
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Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Cocoa, FL Office
717 S Cocoa Blvd STE 203
Cocoa, FL 32922
(321) 449-8042
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Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law – Titusville, FL Office
4527 S Hopkins Ave Suite B
Titusville, FL 32780
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