Martin County Uber, Lyft, Taxi & Limo Accident Lawyer
Whether you are commuting along US-1 in Stuart, taking a rideshare home from a night out in Jensen Beach, or using a car service to get to the airport, you expect to arrive safely. Unfortunately, accidents involving Ubers, Lyfts, taxis, and limousines happen across Martin County roadways. When a commercial or rideshare driver is involved in a crash, the resulting insurance claims can be incredibly complex. At The Altman Law Firm, led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, we help injury victims navigate the confusing aftermath of rideshare and taxi collisions. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a sudden accident takes on your life, and we are here to help you understand your legal options.
Why Uber, Lyft, and Taxi Accidents Are More Complicated
A standard car accident usually involves two drivers and their personal auto insurance policies. However, when an Uber, Lyft, taxi, or limo is involved, multiple insurance policies and corporate entities may come into play. Rideshare companies have tiered insurance coverage that depends on whether the driver was waiting for a request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting someone. Taxi and limo companies also carry commercial policies with different coverage limits. Determining whose insurance applies and dealing with corporate adjusters requires a thorough investigation of the crash.
Navigating Martin County's Busy Roadways
Martin County sees a steady flow of local traffic and seasonal visitors, especially along major corridors like Interstate 95, Florida's Turnpike, and A1A. Rideshare and taxi drivers often rely heavily on GPS navigation, which can lead to distracted driving, sudden stops, or illegal U-turns as they search for a passenger's exact location. Additionally, the pressure to complete as many trips as possible can encourage speeding or fatigued driving. If you were injured as a passenger, a pedestrian, or the driver of another vehicle, identifying the exact cause of the crash is a critical step in pursuing a claim.
Understanding Your Rights Under Florida Law
Following a crash, it is important to act promptly. Florida law imposes a strict statute of limitations on personal injury claims, meaning you only have a limited window of time to file a lawsuit. Furthermore, Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your potential recovery may be reduced, and if you are more than 50 percent responsible, you may be barred from recovering damages entirely. Because evidence can disappear quickly and insurance companies move fast to protect their interests, having legal guidance early in the process can help preserve your rights.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays my medical bills if I am injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft?
If you are injured while riding as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you are generally covered by the rideshare company's commercial insurance policy, which typically carries significant liability limits. However, your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage may also play a role depending on the circumstances. We can help you identify all available sources of coverage.
What should I do immediately after a taxi or limo accident in Martin County?
First, prioritize your health by seeking medical attention, even if you feel fine initially. Call law enforcement so an official crash report is filed, which is crucial for any future claim. If you are able, take photos of the scene, get the driver's information including their commercial license or rideshare app details, and collect contact information from witnesses.
Can I still pursue a claim if the rideshare driver wasn't carrying a passenger yet?
Yes, but the available insurance coverage may differ. If the driver had the app turned on and was waiting for a ride request, a lower level of contingent liability coverage usually applies. If they were en route to pick someone up, the higher commercial coverage typically kicks in.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a rideshare or taxi accident in Florida?
Florida recently updated its statute of limitations for general negligence claims, reducing the time limit for most personal injury cases from four years to two years from the date of the accident. Wrongful death claims also have a two-year statute of limitations. Failing to file within this timeframe generally results in losing your right to seek compensation.
Does The Altman Law Firm handle cases outside of Miami?
Yes. While The Altman Law Firm is based in Miami, Jeffrey S. Altman and our team represent injury victims throughout the state of Florida, including Martin County and the surrounding Treasure Coast communities.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber, Lyft, taxi, or limo accident, contact The Altman Law Firm today to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. Call (305) 373-3730.