Fatal Rideshare Accidents: Can You Sue Uber or Lyft for a Wrongful Death?
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in cities across Florida, offering convenience for everyday commutes and social outings. However, with the growing presence of rideshare vehicles on the road, tragic incidents involving fatal crashes have also increased.
When a loved one is killed in an accident involving a rideshare driver—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or occupant of another vehicle—grieving families are left with urgent questions: Who is liable? Can Uber or Lyft be sued for wrongful death?
Florida’s wrongful death laws do allow surviving family members to pursue compensation when negligence causes a fatal accident. However, rideshare accidents involve unique legal challenges, particularly when determining whether companies like Uber or Lyft can be held responsible. Our West Palm Beach Uber accident lawyers explore the legal options available to families after a fatal rideshare accident, including the available insurance, driver liability, and the potential for claims against the rideshare company itself.
Understanding Liability in Fatal Rideshare Accidents
Determining who is legally responsible for a fatal rideshare crash depends on the specific facts of the incident. Liability may fall on the rideshare driver, another driver, or, in some circumstances, on Uber or Lyft themselves. Key factors include whether the rideshare driver was actively working at the time of the crash, whether third parties were involved, and what caused the accident.
In a wrongful death claim, surviving family members must establish that the defendant’s negligence or wrongful act caused the death. In the context of a rideshare accident, this could include:
- Distracted driving (e.g., using the rideshare app while driving)
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Driving under the influence
- Violation of traffic laws
- Failure to properly screen or supervise drivers (in certain cases)
When Is Uber or Lyft Liable for a Fatal Crash?
Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This distinction is critical, as it generally protects the companies from being vicariously liable for a driver’s negligent actions under traditional legal principles. However, that does not mean victims and their families are without recourse.
Both companies carry substantial insurance policies that may apply depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
1. The Driver Was Not Logged Into the App
If the driver was not logged into the Uber or Lyft app at the time of the crash, then they are considered to be driving personally, and neither company’s insurance policy applies. In this case, only the driver’s personal auto insurance can be pursued.
2. The Driver Was Logged In But Had Not Accepted a Ride
When the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, it is possible the rideshare provides liability coverage which is additional to any liability coverage the driver has personally.
3. The Driver Was En Route or Transporting a Passenger
If the accident occurs while the driver is on their way to pick up a passenger or actively transporting one, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in third-party liability coverage. This is the most substantial coverage available and is often the primary source of recovery in fatal rideshare accidents involving passengers, pedestrians, or other motorists.
Can You Sue Uber or Lyft Directly for Wrongful Death?
While rideshare companies carry insurance, filing a direct lawsuit against Uber or Lyft is more difficult due to their classification of drivers as independent contractors. However, it may be possible in certain limited situations, such as:
- If the company was negligent in hiring or retaining a dangerous driver (e.g., failing to screen for criminal history or a history of reckless driving)
- If the company’s app design encourages distracted driving or fails to meet basic safety standards
- If company policies or practices contributed to unsafe driving behavior
Pursuing direct liability against Uber or Lyft requires a thorough investigation and may involve claims of negligent supervision, product liability, or failure to warn. These cases are complex and often require expert analysis.
What Families Should Do After a Fatal Rideshare Accident
If your loved one has died in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, it is essential to take the following steps:
- Preserve all available evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any video footage.
- Do not accept any settlement offers without speaking to an attorney.
- Contact a wrongful death lawyer experienced in handling rideshare-related claims. These cases often involve multiple insurers, overlapping policies, and legal defenses unique to the rideshare industry.
A skilled attorney can help determine all potential sources of liability, gather critical evidence, and fight for full compensation on your family’s behalf.
Contact Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather
While rideshare services have become an everyday convenience, they are not without risk. When negligence results in a fatal crash, Uber and Lyft’s liability may not be automatic, but their insurance policies and business practices can still play a central role in a wrongful death claim. Understanding the nuances of Florida’s wrongful death laws and rideshare liability is essential for families seeking justice after a tragic loss.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal accident involving Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service, the attorneys at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather are here to help. We have the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of wrongful death claims and hold negligent parties accountable.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward justice.
Sources:
insurancejournal.com/news/southeast/2025/01/03/806810.htm
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/Sections/0440.11.html
valuepenguin.com/rideshare-car-insurance-florida
