Delivery drivers face constant risks on Florida roads, from reckless drivers to hazardous weather conditions. If you were injured in a car accident while working for GrubHub, UberEats, or DoorDash, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure what to do next. Unlike typical car accidents, a crash during a delivery raises questions about insurance coverage, liability, and legal options.
Understanding your rights and taking the right steps can make all the difference in protecting your health, finances, and ability to work. Here’s what you need to know about handling an accident as a delivery driver in Tampa, Florida, and how a car accident lawyer can help if you've been injured.
Common causes of GrubHub, UberEats, and DoorDash accidents
Food delivery drivers face numerous risks on the road, many of which are completely out of their control. Since they spend a lot of time on the road, they often encounter negligent and reckless drivers. Common causes of delivery and rideshare accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Motorists texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment systems may not see a delivery driver stopping or turning.
- Aggressive driving: Speeding, tailgating, cutting off other vehicles, and weaving through traffic put delivery drivers at risk.
- Drunk or impaired driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times and poor judgment.
- Failure to yield: Some drivers ignore right-of-way rules and make left turns into oncoming traffic or running stop signs, leading to collisions.
- Reckless parking and sudden stops: Other drivers may block roads, bike lanes, or double-park, which forces delivery drivers into unsafe zones.
steps to take after a delivery driver accident
After a crash, your safety comes first. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, follow these steps:
- Check for injuries and seek medical attention: If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, getting checked by a doctor is important since some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.
- Move to a safe location: If possible, pull your car to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic or causing further accidents.
- Call 911 and report the crash: A police report provides important documentation. Officers will collect information, determine fault, and record statements from all involved parties.
- Exchange information with all parties involved: Get all drivers' names, contact details, and insurance information. Also, note each vehicle's make, model, and license plate.
- Take photos and gather evidence: Document vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries, and traffic signs. If possible, take pictures from multiple angles to strengthen your case.
- Speak to witnesses: If bystanders saw the accident, ask for their contact information. Their statements can help prove what happened.
- Notify your delivery service company: Each platform (GrubHub, UberEats, DoorDash) has different policies for reporting traffic accidents. Contact customer support through the app or website to report the incident.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible: Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor. Medical records will be important if you file an injury claim later, as they help prove the extent of your injuries and link them to your crash.
Does GrubHub, UberEats, or DoorDash provide insurance coverage for accidents?
Delivery service companies provide limited insurance coverage, but it depends on when the collision happened. Here are the scenarios when insurance applies:
- If you were not logged into the app: You must rely on your personal auto insurance, as the company’s coverage doesn't apply.
- If you were logged in but had not accepted a delivery: Some companies offer limited liability coverage, but personal insurance is still the primary coverage.
- If you were actively delivering an order: Most companies provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, but you may still need additional insurance.
What happens if I am at fault for the crash?
If you caused the crash, liability falls on your personal auto insurance or the company’s coverage (if you were actively delivering). However, many personal auto policies exclude coverage for commercial use.
In Florida, a no-fault state, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault. However, PIP doesn't cover vehicle damage. If you don’t have commercial auto insurance, you could end up paying for repairs out of pocket.
What if another driver was at fault for the accident?
If another driver caused the crash, you can file a claim against their insurance for property damage and any medical expenses or lost wages that exceed the PIP limit. However, not all drivers carry adequate coverage. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to:
- Use your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage if you have it.
- Seek compensation through the delivery company’s insurance policy, if applicable.
- File a personal injury lawsuit if insurance doesn't adequately cover your damages.
What compensation can I recover after a delivery driver accident?
If another driver was at fault or company-provided insurance applies, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses: This includes emergency care, hospital visits, surgery, rehabilitation, and therapy.
- Lost wages: If injuries prevent you from working, you may recover current and future lost income.
- Property damage: Compensation for vehicle repairs or replacement if your car was damaged in the crash.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and long-term disability.
Contact Armando Personal Injury Law Today
If you were injured in a delivery driver accident in Tampa, you need experienced legal help to go through the claims process and recover the compensation you deserve. Armando Personal Injury Law fights for injured delivery drivers who have suffered injuries because of someone else's negligence.
Attorney Armando Edmiston has extensive experience handling car accident claims, negotiating with insurance companies, and securing fair settlements for victims. To get started, call us or contact us online and set up your free, no-obligation case consultation with one of our attorneys.
“Armando and his staff are incredible. Very professional and attentive. Any time I had questions or concerns about my case (which was quite often), they were happy to answer and give me peace of mind. If I ever have a need for an attorney in the future, I will always use and recommend Armando.” – M.C., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐