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Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made getting around Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, and other parts of Polk County more convenient. However, when accidents happen, determining who is responsible for your injuries can be challenging. Whether you were a passenger, driver, pedestrian, or another motorist involved in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
At Kemp Injury Law, we represent individuals injured in car and rideshare-related accidents throughout Polk County. Our firm understands how Uber and Lyft insurance policies work, as well as the tactics rideshare companies use to limit payouts. If you were injured in a car, Uber, or Lyft crash, we will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
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:
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.
Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on the status of the driver at the time of the crash:
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.
If you are involved in a rideshare accident in Polk County, take these steps to protect your rights:
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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?
In addition to rideshare accident cases, Kemp Injury Law handles a wide range of personal injury claims, including:
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.
Your injuries should not be ignored, and neither should your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the first step toward justice.
In 2026, what insurance limits apply in Florida when an Uber or Lyft driver is logged in but has not accepted a ride yet?
Florida’s transportation network company statute requires primary auto insurance while the driver is logged in and available. During that “app on, no ride accepted yet” period, the statute lists minimum liability limits of $50,000 per person, $100,000 per incident, and $25,000 property damage. Once the driver is engaged in a prearranged ride, the statute lists $1 million in primary liability coverage.
Who is responsible for paying damages after an Uber or Lyft accident in Florida?
Responsibility in a rideshare accident often depends on the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the crash. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger, Uber or Lyft's commercial insurance policy typically applies. If the driver was logged in but hadn’t accepted a ride, lower-tier coverage may apply. If the driver was off-duty, only their personal auto insurance is responsible. Determining the exact phase of the ride is crucial for identifying the appropriate insurer. A skilled attorney will help uncover all available insurance coverage to ensure your damages are fully compensated.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly after an accident?
Generally, you cannot sue Uber or Lyft directly, because their drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees. However, their insurance policies still cover accidents that occur during a ride or while the driver is actively using the app. If the company failed to conduct proper background checks or knowingly kept dangerous drivers on the platform, there could be exceptions. Your attorney will review whether direct liability applies based on the facts of your case. In most cases, compensation is pursued through their insurance, not through a corporate lawsuit. A knowledgeable rideshare accident attorney will explore all legal options to hold the appropriate party accountable.
Can passengers file a claim if injured during a rideshare trip with multiple stops?
Yes. Injuries sustained during multi-stop rideshare trips are still covered under the company’s insurance. Whether you were the first or last passenger, liability depends on whether the driver was actively engaged in the trip through the app. Accidents during these rides are generally treated the same as single-passenger rides. Insurance coverage from Uber or Lyft applies while a trip is in progress. Attorneys use ride logs and GPS data to prove coverage was active at the time. This ensures passengers can recover for injuries regardless of trip type.
What happens if the rideshare driver’s personal insurance denies coverage?
If the rideshare driver’s personal insurer denies coverage, the rideshare company’s commercial policy may still apply. Coverage depends on whether the driver was logged into the app and whether a passenger was present. For example, during a ride, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. If the driver was not logged in, only their personal insurance applies. A rideshare accident lawyer will clarify the driver’s status and enforce the correct policy. This prevents insurers from unfairly shifting responsibility.
Are rideshare companies liable if they failed to screen or monitor the driver properly?
Yes. Rideshare companies may be liable for negligent hiring if they failed to screen a driver’s background, driving history, or criminal record. If a driver with a poor safety record caused the crash, this may be used to prove company negligence. Claims can also arise from inadequate driver monitoring after initial onboarding. Attorneys can subpoena company hiring and monitoring records to uncover systemic failures. Holding companies accountable in addition to the driver increases potential recovery. This approach ensures both corporate and individual negligence are addressed.
Why should I hire Kemp Injury Law for a rideshare accident in Polk County?
Kemp Injury Law understands the complexity of rideshare accidents and the unique legal issues that come with Uber and Lyft claims. We have extensive experience handling these types of cases throughout Polk County and across Florida. Our team investigates app records, insurance timelines, and driver status to build a compelling claim. We fight to recover the maximum compensation for your injuries, lost income, and emotional distress. Whether you're a rideshare passenger or hit by a rideshare driver, we know how to hold these companies and their insurers accountable. If you've been injured, contact us today to protect your rights and start your recovery.
