Uber is a great way to get to or from Miami International Airport, go out for the evening without worrying about drinking and driving, or take any trip you want to make without driving yourself or taking public transportation. Uber is convenient, fast, and comfortable. You know the cost of the trip in advance, and payment is cashless. You also choose the type of service you want, whether looking for something cheap or a luxury ride, going green in an electric vehicle, or seeking extra legroom. Whether you need a car that can accommodate large groups, a wheelchair, or comes with a child car seat, Uber has the ride you are looking seeking.
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Despite all its advantages, taking an Uber is not without its risks. Uber drivers are not professional drivers. Instead, they are regular people and just as prone to car accidents as any member of the general public. True, one might expect Uber drivers to be more careful and attentive since they are driving for pay and responsible for the safety of their passengers. Still, some aspects of the job increase the risk of car accidents in an Uber. For instance:
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Some Uber drivers spend long hours on the road deadheading, driving around while waiting for fares. Extra time on the road increases the odds of getting into a wreck and increases the likelihood of drowsy driving and fatigue.
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Many Uber drivers use Uber as a side gig in addition to their full-time job. They are driving a shift for Uber after a grueling day job increases the odds of fatigue, distraction, and drowsy driving.
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Uber drivers are busiest at night and on weekends when most traffic accidents happen, including those involving drunk drivers.
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Uber drivers are more likely to be distracted by their G.P.S. as they ferry passengers to unfamiliar destinations.
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Some Uber drivers also log into the Lyft app while driving to maximize the rides they get, increasing the chances of dangerous distractions while driving.
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Uber reported at least 97 fatalities in 2017 and 2018, but university studies show traffic deaths have risen since 2011 when Uber started to take off. Whether this increase in accidents is due to more cell phones and distracted driving, the rise of Uber, or a combination, is uncertain. Unfortunately, the surge in Uber has also caused people to use less public transportation, putting more cars on roads, creating more traffic and more chances for a crash. Contact our experienced Miami Dade County Uber accident lawyers today for more information or assistance.
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Florida’s T.N.C. Law for Uber Drivers
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Florida state law has addressed the issue of Transportation Network Companies (T.N.C.s) like Uber and Lyft. Florida law protects the public by keeping people from driving for Uber who have a record of drunk driving or reckless driving and certain violent crimes or sex offenders. While these laws might help keep passengers safe from crimes or assaults, they don’t do much to keep passengers safe from a bad driver. Uber drivers cannot have a suspended or revoked driver’s license in the last three years, but they can have up to three moving violations on their record and still drive for Uber under the law.
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Notably, state law does not put vehicle maintenance requirements on Uber drivers. The individual driver is entirely left alone to determine how well they care for their cars, including tires, brakes, windshield wipers, and signal lights. Florida also has no laws on the maximum number of hours people can drive for Uber in a given period, despite the risks of drowsy and distracted driving by fatigued drivers.
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In Florida, there are liability insurance requirements that the driver, the T.N.C., or a combination of the two must be met. These requirements are as follows:
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When the driver is logged into the app but has not accepted a ride notification, coverage equal to $50,000 for bodily injury to one person, $100,000 for bodily injury to more than one person, and $25,000 for property damage
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Once the driver has accepted a ride notification, $1 million in liability coverage until the ride is completed
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Uber drivers who are not logged into the app should have no-fault (P.I.P.) coverage and Uninsured Motorist (U.M.) coverage, but bodily injury liability (B.I.L.) is not required by law.
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In addition to the liability insurance it provides, Uber also covers its drivers with contingent comprehensive and collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible and UM/UIM coverage while logged in.
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Helping Uber Drivers, Other Drivers, and Injured Passengers
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Kaba Law Group, P.L.L.C. represents car accident injury victims, whether they were hit by an Uber driver or injured while driving for Uber. Each situation presents its own unique challenges and complications, so retaining a personal injury specialist is the right move toward achieving success on your claim.
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Passengers injured while riding in an Uber might have a claim against the Uber driver, the other driver, or both. Each driver’s insurance company might dispute its share of any liability, leaving the injured passenger struggling to sort it out. Kaba Law Group, P.L.L.C. can help you navigate this complicated situation by determining the right way to pursue a compensation claim. In this case, one thing is certain; the accident wasn’t your fault. Call Kaba Law Group, P.L.L.C. for passionate, diligent representation of your claim or claims.
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We Are Here To Help With Your Uber Car Accident
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At Kaba Law Group, P.L.L.C., our lawyers have the professional skills, legal knowledge, and trial experience that you can trust and rely on for results.
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If you were in a crash with an Uber driver, Kaba Law Group and our Miami Dade County Uber Car Accident lawyers have the legal experience and dedication you need to represent you. We will help you to determine who was at fault and hold them accountable for compensating you for the total value of your injuries and resulting damages. We help you get the compensation that you deserve!
Call us today at (305)-245-9990 or schedule an free appointment online https://kabalaw.cliogrow.com/book, fully private, and confidential consultation and learn more about how we can help.