In 2017, former governor Rick Scott signed Florida House Bill 221: Transportation Network Companies. The bill created regulations for ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft. It established insurance requirements and background check standards for drivers.
The bill was passed in response to the growing popularity of ride-sharing services. It was designed to protect consumers and ensure that these companies operate safely and responsibly.
Minimum Insurance Requirements
HB221 establishes two separate minimum insurance requirements for rideshare companies and their drivers. If a driver is logged into the application but not in the process of transportation, the insurance requirements are:
Bodily Injury Coverage – $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident.
Property Damage Coverage – $25,000.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – $10,000 (per Florida law).
On the other hand, if a driver is transporting a customer, the bill calls for:
Bodily Injury/Property Damage Coverage – $1,000,000 minimum coverage.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – $10,000 minimum coverage.
Criminal Background Checks
The bill also requires rideshare companies to conduct local and national background checks on their drivers every three years, performed by a third party.
These background checks must include a review of the driver’s criminal history, motor vehicle record, and other relevant information. Drivers who have been convicted of certain crimes or had their driver’s license suspended or revoked will not be allowed to drive for a ride-sharing company. Driver applications are also subject to a driving record check by the rideshare company.
Companies must send reports as proof of background and driving record checks after administering them to the Department of Financial Services. Failure to comply will result in penalties assessed.
Other Bill Requirements
While minimum insurance requirements and criminal background checks are necessary safeguards to protect riders, that is not all the bill calls for. Here is a list of other requirements that the bill mentions:
- Zero-tolerance policy regarding drugs and alcohol.
- Anti-discrimination and disability policies.
- Disclosure of fare fees to riders beforehand.
- Photo of the driver and their license plate available to riders.
- Rideshare companies must keep records of all drivers and riders.
Fort Lauderdale Rideshare Accident Attorneys
Our team of experienced lawyers at Schlesinger Law Offices, P.A. has a proven track record of success in obtaining justice for rideshare accident victims. We have successfully recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients, and we are dedicated to ensuring that justice is served. If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, we encourage you to contact us today for a free consultation.
For a free initial consultation, fill out our form online or call us today at (954) 467-8800.
