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There has been much talk in the media about ridesharing operations like Uber and Lyft. The programs that these companies offer are viewed as alternatives to taxi cabs; however, how safe are ridesharing programs? Randall Spivey, a Ft. Myers personal injury lawyer, knows that although these operations have gained popularity in cities like Orlando and others throughout Florida, the safety risks are very real.

Make no mistake about it -- ridesharing has seemingly taken over major cities overnight. While it is true that they come with their fair share of advantages, they can also spawn a number of possible issues and concerns, namely in regard to passenger (and driver) safety.

Lawmakers Seek Rules for Ridesharing Services
According to a Jacksonville news report, Florida lawmakers want drivers who work for ridesharing companies to carry a state-backed insurance policy and be subject to more stringent background checks.

Senator David Simmons, with respect to requiring the insurance coverage, said the following: “First things first, and that’s taking care of citizens in the state of Florida who may be injured as a result of an injury in an automobile in which there was ridesharing for which there’s absolutely no insurance coverage.”

What If You’ve Been Hurt in a Ridesharing Accident?
There’s been much discussion about the safety of operators of ridesharing vehicles, but what about the passengers? To be sure, passengers are equally at risk of injuries when riding in such vehicles. Depending on the severity of the accident, those involved may sustain very serious injuries, some of which may be life-altering.

Still, there is concern over the amount of coverage provided to a passenger in case the worst happens. That said, anyone who has been involved in an accident while riding in an Uber, Lyft or other ridesharing company vehicle is encouraged to speak to a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to learn of their legal rights and options.

Unfortunately, those who have been involved in ridesharing accidents are already familiar with the legal issues arising after such incidents. The industry is still new and growing and sadly, there are quite a few loopholes that some ridesharing companies may utilize to avoid paying for a passenger’s injuries.

For instance, individuals using such services should be aware that the ridesharing company’s so-called additional coverage may not actually provide coverage for you. In particular, lawmakers have noted that the companies’ insurance policies might not cover certain aspects of an accident, such as a passenger’s medical costs or underinsured motorists.

Additionally, some companies may expect passengers to cover themselves through their own insurance company. Naturally, in the event of an accident in which the driver’s insurance policy does not cover your injuries, you will likely seek coverage from your own insurance company.

But what happens in cases in which an individual only carries minimal insurance, or even worse, no insurance at all because he or she does not drive?

Ridesharing companies are on the rise, but it important to ensure you remain as safe as possible. In the event of an accident, you should be able to seek compensation for your injuries from those responsible. If you have questions or have been hurt in a ridesharing accident, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. right away to discuss your options under the law.