How PIP Applies if You’re a Passenger in a Non-Moving Uber/Lyft

Most people understand Florida’s no-fault insurance law in the context of everyday driving. Basically, if you’re in a car accident, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage helps pay for medical expenses, no matter who caused the crash.

But what happens if you’re a passenger in an Uber or Lyft that isn’t even moving when the incident occurs? The answer involves a mix of Florida’s no-fault rules and rideshare-specific insurance coverage. Speak with a Port St. Lucie Personal Injury Lawyer to have your claim reviewed.

PIP and the Rideshare Passenger Scenarios

Under Florida law, all registered drivers must carry $10,000 in PIP coverage. This insurance pays 80% of reasonable medical expenses and 60% of lost wages after a crash, up to policy limits, regardless of fault. It applies whether you’re driving your own car, riding in someone else’s, or even hit as a pedestrian, as long as a motor vehicle is involved.

If you’re riding in an Uber or Lyft that is not in motion (maybe parked at the curb, idling in a lot, or waiting for another passenger) you might still be covered by PIP if:

• Another vehicle struck the rideshare car. If a moving vehicle collides with your Uber or Lyft while it’s stationary, the incident still counts as a motor vehicle accident under Florida law. Your own PIP coverage (from your personal auto policy) is typically the first to apply. If you don’t own a car, PIP coverage may come from a resident relative’s policy.
• You are injured without a collision. Sometimes injuries occur without a crash, such as when a rideshare driver abruptly brakes while parked, a door malfunctions, or you trip exiting the vehicle. In these situations, PIP may still apply if the injury arose from the use, operation, or maintenance of a motor vehicle. The specifics can get complicated, and insurance companies may dispute coverage in non-collision scenarios.

Uber and Lyft carry substantial liability coverage, but the portion that applies depends on the driver’s status in the app. When a rideshare driver is logged in and carrying a passenger (even if the car is not moving) the company’s liability policy is active. But this liability coverage generally kicks in after PIP has paid its share.

For example, if your medical bills exceed your PIP limit or if you suffer permanent injuries, you may be able to pursue additional compensation from the rideshare company’s insurer.

Determining which policy applies, your PIP, a relative’s PIP, the rideshare driver’s policy, or Uber/Lyft’s corporate coverage, can be confusing, especially in a non-moving vehicle scenario. Insurance companies may try to shift responsibility to avoid paying.

After being injured while riding in a non-moving Uber or Lyft, you still have rights under Florida’s no-fault system. Speaking with an experienced Port St. Lucie Personal Injury Lawyer can help you access a full settlement.

Need help navigating a PIP claim after a rideshare injury? Legal support is available if you were hurt in Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Stuart, or Vero Beach. Connect with the attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez. Reach out today, call 561-660-9421.