Why Passengers Injured in a Rideshare Accident in New York Need an Attorney

Protecting Your Rights and Pursuing Justice with the Help of Parker Waichman LLP

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a convenient way for millions of New Yorkers to travel, but with their rise, accidents involving rideshare vehicles have also increased. Passengers who sustain injuries in a rideshare accident may face significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Determining liability and securing compensation can be complex, as rideshare companies operate under unique insurance structures and legal frameworks.

If you or someone you love has been injured as a passenger in a rideshare accident in New York, it is essential to understand your rights and the options available to you. Parker Waichman LLP is a New York Rideshare Accident Injury Law Firm dedicated to protecting victims and holding negligent parties accountable. Our attorneys care and can help guide you through this process. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling 800-968-7529 to pursue the justice you deserve.

Understanding Rideshare Accidents and Liability in New York

New York law requires rideshare companies to maintain specific insurance policies that protect passengers in case of an accident. However, determining who is liable—the rideshare driver, another motorist, or even the rideshare company—can complicate your claim.

In New York, rideshare drivers are required to have insurance coverage provided by their rideshare company when they are actively logged into the app. This includes:

• When a Driver is Logged Into the App and Awaiting a Ride Request: Insurance must cover $75,000 per person for bodily injury, $150,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• When a Driver is Transporting Passengers or En Route to Pick Them Up: Companies like Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage up to $1 million.

Despite these safeguards, rideshare companies often attempt to deflect responsibility, leaving passengers to deal with insurance companies, mounting medical bills, and lost wages. Pursuing a claim without an attorney can be overwhelming, especially when multiple parties are involved.

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in New York is three years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death cases, the deadline is two years. Acting quickly is essential to preserve evidence, identify liable parties, and file your claim within these timeframes.

Why Victims Need an Attorney

Rideshare accident claims can involve multiple layers of complexity, from navigating insurance policies to proving fault. A skilled attorney will help identify all potential sources of compensation, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court to ensure justice is served.

Without legal representation, victims often face lowball offers from insurance companies that fail to cover the full extent of their losses. An attorney ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, and financial damages.

How Rideshare Accidents Harm Victims

Passengers in rideshare accidents often sustain severe injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, and internal damage. Beyond the physical harm, these accidents can disrupt lives, causing emotional distress and financial hardship due to medical expenses, lost income, and long-term rehabilitation.

Families of victims who have lost their lives in rideshare accidents face an even greater burden, grappling with the emotional pain of their loss while dealing with funeral expenses and the loss of financial support.

Holding responsible parties accountable through legal action is not only about recovering compensation but also about preventing future negligence and ensuring that rideshare companies uphold safety standards.

Damages Victims May Recover

Victims injured in rideshare accidents in New York may be entitled to recover damages, including:

• Medical expenses, including ongoing treatment and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

A successful lawsuit ensures that victims are compensated fairly and sends a message to rideshare companies about the importance of maintaining safety protocols.

Why Choose Parker Waichman LLP

Parker Waichman LLP has a proven track record of fighting for injured victims and holding negligent parties accountable. Our attorneys understand the intricacies of New York rideshare accident cases, from dealing with insurance companies to pursuing lawsuits against rideshare companies. With our personalized approach, we will thoroughly investigate your claim, gather evidence, and fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve. Our firm has received numerous prestigious awards, including a near-perfect rating from AVVO as well as the highest peer-review rating from Martindale-Hubbell, which has been rating attorneys across the country for more than a century based on feedback from judges and peers. We’ve even been recognized as one of the best personal injury firms in the pages of Best Lawyers.

Rideshare Accident Claims in New York FAQs

What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident in New York?

After a rideshare accident, prioritize your safety and health. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor at first. Report the accident to the police and ensure a report is filed. Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Can I sue both the rideshare driver and the company?

In New York, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are typically covered by $1 million insurance policies when drivers are transporting passengers. You may file a claim against the driver’s insurance, the rideshare company’s policy, or both, depending on the circumstances of the accident. An attorney can help determine liability and ensure you pursue compensation from all responsible parties.

How much time do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident in New York?

New York law generally allows three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is two years. Acting quickly is essential to gather evidence and build a strong case.

What if the rideshare driver was not at fault?

If another driver caused the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance or the rideshare company’s underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage. An attorney can investigate the circumstances of the accident to identify all liable parties.

Why should I choose Parker Waichman LLP to represent me?

Parker Waichman LLP has extensive experience handling complex personal injury cases, including rideshare accidents. Our legal team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective representation, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. With a commitment to excellence and a proven track record, we stand ready to fight for your rights.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP for a Free Case Review

If you or a loved one has been injured as a passenger in a rideshare accident, don’t let the complexities of the legal process prevent you from seeking justice. Parker Waichman LLP is here to help. Contact our New York Rideshare Accident Law Firm today at 800-968-7529 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on healing. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our personal injury law firm is ready to assist you.