Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed the way people get around New York City, but when accidents happen, an auto accident attorney New York riders trust can be essential. You can hail a ride to nearly any corner of Manhattan or Brooklyn with the touch of a smartphone screen. But what if your rideshare trip turns dangerous, and you get into a car accident?
If you’re hit by a rideshare driver, figuring out who’s legally responsible can get complicated fast. Unlike traditional accidents, rideshare collisions involve multiple parties: the driver, the rideshare company, and potentially others. That’s why it’s essential to consult with an experienced auto accident attorney in New York who understands how to handle these unique cases.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
In the majority of New York car accidents, the at-fault driver is held responsible. However, rideshare vehicles get layers more complicated than that.
- The Rideshare Driver: If the at-fault driver was the driver who made the mistake, i.e., they were speeding, distracted, or failed to yield, they may be liable individually. But their insurance may not cover your injuries in full.
- Uber or Lyft: Uber and Lyft both provide additional coverage insurance, but not for every facet of the driver’s work. If the driver was logged in to the app and waiting between ride requests, driving to a pickup location, or picking up a passenger, Uber or Lyft coverage may become activated.
- Third Parties: In some cases, a different automobile, a pedestrian, or even the government (like the City of New York for road obstructions) can be held accountable.
An experienced Manhattan car accident attorney will thoroughly investigate the wreck to find out all potentially liable parties and leave no stone unturned.
How Rideshare Insurance Works in New York
Uber and Lyft both offer tiered policies based on what the driver was doing when he crashed:
- Offline: If the driver is offline, his own personal car insurance is on the hook.
- App On, No Passenger: If the driver had the app active but was waiting for a ride request, Uber or Lyft provides limited liability coverage during this period.
- Ride Accepted or Passenger in Car: Once the driver accepts a ride or has a passenger in the vehicle, the rideshare company’s full liability coverage becomes active.
It is important to know these differences when seeking compensation. A Brooklyn or Manhattan car accident lawyer will be able to work these policies to your benefit.
Injured as a Passenger?
If you were a passenger in a rideshare accident, you deserve to be paid back, regardless of who was at fault. But even so, you can still face a challenge in dealing with insurance providers that try to keep you from receiving significant payouts.
That’s where obtaining an experienced car accident attorney in New York can be a lifesaver. They will ensure your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering are reimbursed.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Manhattan
- Call 911 and seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
- Document everything: Take photos, gather witness info, and get the rideshare driver’s details.
- Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through the app.
- Contact a car accident attorney whether you’re in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or anywhere in NYC.
Time is valuable. New York’s statute of limitations provides you with typically three years to present a claim, but speed is just what makes your case better.
In Brief
A rideshare accident in Manhattan could disrupt your life; there is no reason to handle it alone. Liability is complicated, and insurance companies will not be eager to pay. This is why a veteran Manhattan car accident attorney or car accident attorney Brooklyn is your best bet.
An experienced New York car accident attorney will help you cut through the disinformation, negotiate with insurance providers, and battle for the compensation you deserve. If you were hurt, don’t wait. Find the legal help you deserve to get on with your life.