Navigating the vibrant streets of Miami—from the bustling financial district of Brickell to the scenic MacArthur Causeway—often involves rideshares, taxis, or limousines. While these services offer convenience, accidents involving for-hire vehicles present unique legal challenges. If you were injured as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, Altman Law Firm is here to help you understand your options and pursue justice.
Unlike standard car accidents, crashes involving Uber, Lyft, taxis, or luxury limousines involve multiple layers of insurance coverage. In Florida, rideshare companies are governed by specific insurance requirements that fluctuate depending on whether the driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or actively carrying a passenger. Taxis and limousines also operate under distinct local and state regulations. Sorting through these policies requires a deep understanding of Florida personal injury laws to identify who is liable for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
When pursuing compensation after a collision on busy Miami thoroughfares like Biscayne Boulevard or I-95, it is essential to understand Florida's modified comparative fault system. Under this rule, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident, you are barred from recovering damages. Additionally, Florida law strictly limits the timeframe for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Acting quickly ensures that critical evidence, such as rideshare GPS data, dashcam footage, and witness statements, is preserved before it is lost.
For-hire vehicle accidents can result in devastating injuries, from severe whiplash and broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. In the most tragic cases, collisions lead to wrongful death, leaving families to cope with sudden, immense loss. Jeffrey S. Altman provides compassionate, comprehensive representation to help grieving families and injured victims seek accountability. We handle the communication with aggressive insurance adjusters so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
First, seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Next, report the accident to the police and ensure an official report is filed. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, license plates, and road conditions. Be sure to screenshot your rideshare app receipt and driver details. Finally, avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney.
In Florida, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance typically serves as the primary coverage, even if you were a passenger in a for-hire vehicle. However, if your injuries are severe or exceed your PIP limits, you may be eligible to seek compensation through the rideshare company's commercial liability policy or the taxi company's insurance, depending on who was at fault.
Florida operates under a modified comparative fault system. This means your recovery can be reduced by your percentage of fault. Crucially, if you are determined to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, you cannot recover any damages from the other parties. An attorney can help present a strong case to accurately establish liability.
Under Florida law, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits based on negligence is two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, the timeline is also generally two years. Failing to file within this window typically bars you from pursuing legal action, making prompt consultation critical.
Many personal injury claims involving rideshares or taxis are resolved through negotiations and settlements outside of court. However, if the insurance companies refuse to offer a fair settlement, taking the case to trial at the Miami-Dade County Courthouse may be necessary to seek the compensation you deserve.
Contact Altman Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation regarding your Miami rideshare or taxi accident claim. Call (305) 373-3730.