How Does Florida’s No-Fault Law Affect Rideshare Accident Claims?
Since Florida is a no-fault state, all drivers—including Uber and Lyft drivers—must carry PIP insurance.
PIP Insurance Covers
- Up to 80% of medical bills (capped at $10,000 for emergencies)
- Up to 60% of lost wages
- Death benefits if the accident was fatal
However, PIP does not cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, or full wage replacement—and $10,000 doesn’t go far if you’re seriously hurt.
You can step outside the no-fault system and file a claim against Uber, Lyft, or another driver if:
- Your injuries are severe (defined under Florida law as significant, permanent, or disabling).
- Your damages exceed your PIP limits (medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering).
- The at-fault party was grossly negligent (such as driving under the influence).
This is where Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies come into play.
Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage in Jacksonville, FL
If you were in a rideshare accident in Jacksonville, you might assume Uber or Lyft will automatically cover your injuries. But Florida’s no-fault law changes how claims work—your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance pays first for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.
Uber and Lyft only provide coverage when their drivers are actively using the app, and the amount of coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
Let’s break down what that means for you.
Driver Logged Off
No Rideshare Coverage
If the Uber or Lyft driver wasn’t logged into the app, their personal auto insurance applies. Uber and Lyft provide no coverage.
- Your own PIP insurance will cover medical bills and lost wages up to $10,000.
- If your injuries exceed PIP limits, you may be able to file a claim against the driver’s personal insurance for additional damages.
- If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own UM/UIM coverage (if you have it) may be an option.
Driver Logged In (Waiting for a Ride Request)
Limited Rideshare Coverage
Once a driver logs into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide some liability coverage, but it doesn’t automatically cover you:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
Important!
Your own PIP coverage still applies first for medical bills and lost wages. Only if your injuries are severe enough to exceed PIP limits can you pursue a claim against Uber or Lyft’s liability coverage.
Driver En Route or Transporting a Passenger
$1 Million Policy
Once the driver accepts a ride or has a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide their highest level of coverage:
- $1 million in third-party liability insurance
- $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
- Collision coverage (if the driver has personal collision coverage)
Again, Florida’s no-fault law requires your PIP coverage to pay first for medical expenses and lost wages. If your injuries are severe enough to step outside the no-fault system, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through Uber or Lyft’s insurance.
How We Help You Navigate Rideshare Insurance Claims
Since multiple insurance policies may be involved, these cases get complicated fast. Uber and Lyft won’t make it easy, and insurance companies look for ways to minimize what they pay.
At Brooks Law Group, we’ll untangle the insurance mess, determine what coverage applies to your case, and fight to get you the maximum compensation possible.
Get Your Free Case Review
