With the 2009 launch of UberCab in San Francisco, the ridesharing movement was born. Ridesharing provided early users of the app-based service a convenient way to travel with affordable fares. Also, drivers seeking easy cash could register to drive without the headache of becoming an official taxi operator. Amazingly, in just under a decade, Uber, as it is now called, is flourishing in 570 cities worldwide, and shows no sign of slowing down.
Close on the heels of Uber’s success, Lyft elevated its rideshare game and made becoming a competitive player quickly, operating in 300 cities, globally. While many rideshare companies and cities have made attempts to get into the rideshare business, Uber and Lyft remain the undisputed leaders in the field.
The success of ridesharing has not come without a cost. Many cities have pushed forward complaints against Uber and Lyft for various reasons, including some Florida cities as well. Some worry that the average rideshare driver may not be as skilled as a professional taxicab driver, or that these drivers’ personal cars may not be as sound or regularly serviced as a taxicab company’s vehicle. Additionally, traditional taxicab companies have voiced their concerns that these new rideshare companies may put them out of business. As a result of this, cities have implemented their own rideshare services; such as Austin, Texas banning Uber and Lyft and creating their own rideshare service called RideAustin. But through all the turmoil, rideshare companies have weathered the storm and appear to be here to stay.
New Service, New Insurance
As the rideshare concept expanded, insurance coverage issues became a concern for riders, pedestrians, other drivers, passengers, and the rideshare companies as well. The current state of rideshare insurance coverage is complex to say the least, and even though rideshare companies profess that they have big dollar policies to cover accidents, some of their requirements are difficult if not impossible to satisfy. For this reason, it is critical to consult with an experienced rideshare attorney if you are involved in a rideshare accident.
Potential Risks for Drivers and Riders
As Uber and Lyft are relatively new to the transportation market, Florida laws that directly address ridesharing are limited. And with limited regulation, rideshare passengers and drivers alike carry certain risks when utilizing the rideshare app-based service. And while neither Uber nor Lyft has offered up thorough stats regarding the total amount of accidents that have occurred involving their drivers, the internet is certainly inundated with countless stories of rideshare accident problems, injuries, and insurance nightmares.
The rideshare giants, Uber and Lyft, both offer coverage for accidents, but there are still special circumstances and situations that could play a part in making a claim difficult to file especially if they deny coverage altogether.
Protect Your Rights: Work With An Experienced Rideshare Accident Attorney
Regardless of opinion, rideshare giants Uber and Lyft are a part of the transportation industry in Florida. And while cost of a fare might be lower, your risk might be higher if you find yourself involved in a rideshare accident. Protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Call us for a free consultation if you have been involved in a rideshare accident. There is no obligation and we’ll consult with you about your accident. But always remember, if you’re in an accident, take care of yourself and get medical attention right away, as nothing is as important as your good health and well being.
Get your questions answered - call us for your FREE consultation at 800-835-5762
