Should You Report an Accident From an Uber Ride in Florida?

September 27, 2024, 4:00AM. By LAS Staff Writer

While Uber has insurance policies in place to protect passengers, the process can be complicated

Miami, FL If you’ve been in an accident while riding in an Uber in Florida, you might be wondering what steps you should take next. Florida's laws around rideshare accidents can be complicated, and it’s essential to handle the situation carefully. Reporting an Uber accident can be crucial for your safety, financial security, and legal rights. Here’s what you need to know.

Uber's Policy on Accident Reporting

Uber’s insurance policy is designed to cover both drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. If you were involved in an accident during an Uber ride, the first step is to report the incident to Uber through their app or customer service. Uber’s insurance typically covers:

• Up to $1 million in third-party liability.
• Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
• Contingent collision and comprehensive coverage (if the driver has personal coverage).

However, dealing with Uber’s insurance can be tricky, and they will investigate the accident thoroughly. Uber may contact you with settlement offers or request a statement, but it’s critical not to make any decisions without consulting a legal expert.

Call an Injury Attorney Before Accepting Any Compensation

Even if the accident seems minor or Uber offers immediate compensation, you should contact a personal injury attorney before accepting any offer. Uber’s insurance team may try to settle your claim quickly, often offering less than you deserve.
An attorney can help you:

• Navigate the complexities of Uber’s insurance policies.
• Ensure all your injuries are properly accounted for, including delayed or hidden injuries.
• Maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

In Florida, if you are injured in an Uber accident, the clock is ticking. There are statutes of limitations on how long you have to file a lawsuit, so prompt action is essential.

Example: Driving Through Jacksonville, Florida

Imagine you’re in an Uber, driving through Jacksonville, Florida, a city known for its sprawling bridges and historic architecture. You might be traveling along I-95, which cuts through the city and offers views of downtown's high-rises like the Bank of America Tower or passing TIAA Bank Field, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Alternatively, your Uber could be navigating through busy streets like Bay Street or Riverside Avenue, known for their heavy traffic during rush hours.

Suddenly, another vehicle runs a red light at the intersection of Main Street and Forsyth Street, crashing into your Uber. You feel a jolt but seem okay, just shaken up. The driver might tell you it’s nothing to worry about and offers to handle the situation. However, this is where things get tricky.

What Happens Next?

After the accident, your Uber driver might report the crash to Uber and exchange information with the other driver, but this isn’t where your involvement should end. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured at the moment, symptoms like whiplash or back pain could develop hours or even days later.

In this Jacksonville example, if you didn’t report the accident to Uber yourself or seek legal advice, you could miss out on vital compensation that covers medical bills and long-term injuries. That’s why calling an injury attorney immediately after an Uber accident, even if you think you’re okay, is crucial. They can help you navigate Uber’s insurance and protect your rights before accepting any offer or settlement.

Why Reporting the Accident Matters

Even if the Uber driver tells you that reporting the accident isn’t necessary, you should still file an accident report with Uber and consider calling local authorities. In Florida, Uber drivers are required to have coverage, but without a proper report, you may face challenges if injuries become apparent later or if compensation issues arise.

By reporting the accident, you are establishing a formal record, which can be crucial if you need to claim against Uber’s insurance policy or if there’s a dispute about who was at fault.

Stay Safe Traveling

If you’re involved in an Uber accident in Florida, especially in busy cities like Jacksonville, the most important thing is to stay calm, report the accident to Uber, and seek legal counsel before accepting any compensation. Consulting an attorney will ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve for any injuries or damages sustained.

While Uber has insurance policies in place to protect passengers, the process can be complicated, and their priority might not align with yours. Make sure you prioritize your health and legal rights by involving a professional as soon as possible.