How Do Rideshare Accidents Happen in Polk County?
With major highways like Interstate 4, U.S. Highway 27, and State Road 60, Polk County sees a high volume of Uber and Lyft traffic. Rideshare drivers are constantly looking at their apps for new rides, leading to distracted driving, sudden stops, and unsafe lane changes.
Some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents include:
- Driver distraction: Rideshare drivers frequently check their phones for directions, ride requests, or passenger messages.
- Fatigued driving: Many Uber and Lyft drivers work long hours, leading to drowsiness and slower reaction times.
- Speeding and reckless driving: Some rideshare drivers rush between fares to maximize earnings.
- Failure to yield: Rideshare drivers may stop suddenly or cut across lanes to pick up or drop off passengers.
- Intoxicated drivers: While rideshare services help reduce drunk driving, not all Uber and Lyft drivers follow the rules.
Accidents involving rideshare vehicles can be complicated because multiple insurance policies may be involved, including the driver’s personal insurance, Uber or Lyft’s coverage, and third-party claims. In cases resulting in
wrongful death, navigating these overlapping policies becomes even more critical to ensure the victim’s family receives the justice and compensation they deserve.
Who Is Responsible for a Rideshare Accident?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on the status of the driver at the time of the crash:
- The rideshare driver was not logged into the app – The driver’s personal auto insurance applies, just like any other car accident.
- The driver was logged into the app but had not accepted a ride – Uber or Lyft provides limited liability coverage in this situation.
- The driver had accepted a ride or was transporting a passenger – Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage for injuries and damages.
If you were injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, hit by a rideshare vehicle as a
pedestrian, or involved in a collision with a rideshare driver, you may have multiple legal options for seeking compensation.
What Should You Do After a Rideshare Accident?
If you are involved in a rideshare accident in Polk County, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Call 911 and report the accident: Request a copy of the police report.
- Seek medical attention immediately – Even if you feel fine, injuries can worsen over time.
- Document everything: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicles involved, and any visible injuries.
- Get contact information: Collect details from the rideshare driver, other drivers, and any witnesses.
- Check the Uber or Lyft app: Your ride history can help prove the driver was actively working at the time of the crash.
- Do not speak to insurance companies without a lawyer: Insurance providers may try to minimize your claim.
- Consult a rideshare accident attorney: A lawyer can help you navigate Uber and Lyft’s complex insurance policies.
What Compensation Is Available for Rideshare Accident Victims?
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
Rideshare companies have aggressive legal teams working to protect their profits—you need an attorney who will fight just as hard for you.
Related: Should You Accept an Insurance Settlement After a Rideshare Accident in Florida?
Other Personal Injury Cases We Handle in Polk County
In addition to rideshare accident cases, Kemp Injury Law handles a wide range of personal injury claims, including:
- Car Accidents: Wrecks on Interstate 4, U.S. Highway 98, and Florida Avenue are common.
- Motorcycle Accidents: Many motorcycle crashes involve drivers failing to yield to bikers.
- Truck Accidents: Accidents with commercial trucks often result in catastrophic injuries.
- Boating Accidents: Polk County’s lakes see frequent boat collisions and watercraft-related injuries.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Rideshare and delivery drivers frequently fail to watch for pedestrians in busy areas.
- Construction Accidents: Worksite injuries can involve unsafe equipment, falls, or electrical hazards.
Call Kemp Injury Law to Talk to a Polk County Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today
If you were injured in an accident involving an Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare vehicle, you deserve to know your legal options. At Kemp Injury Law, we help victims stand up to powerful rideshare companies and fight for the compensation they need to recover.
