Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Melville, NY

If you were injured in a rideshare accident in Melville, you deserve compensation. Parker Waichman LLP helps accident victims recover damages from Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies. Our experienced attorneys understand rideshare liability and insurance coverage. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Contact our Melville rideshare accident attorneys today for a free consultation.

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Melville, NY 201 Old Country Rd Suite 145, Melville, NY 11747, United States 631-390-0800

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Rideshare Accidents in Melville: What You Need to Know

Rideshare accidents happen every day across Long Island. When an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident, multiple insurance policies may come into play. The rideshare company’s insurance, the driver’s personal insurance, and your own insurance may all be involved. This complexity makes it difficult for accident victims to understand their rights. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rideshare accidents have increased significantly in recent years.

Parker Waichman LLP has recovered over $2 billion for injured clients. Our legal team focuses on rideshare accident cases. We understand the unique challenges these cases present. Additionally, we know how to navigate the insurance coverage gaps that often leave victims without compensation. If you need assistance with your case, our car accident lawyer team in Melville, NY is ready to help. View our case results and client testimonials to see how we’ve recovered compensation for accident victims.

Understanding Rideshare Driver Liability

Rideshare drivers are independent contractors, not employees of Uber or Lyft. This classification affects liability in accident cases. When a rideshare driver causes an accident, the driver may be liable for damages. However, the rideshare company may also be liable under certain circumstances. Understanding rideshare driver liability is essential for protecting your legal rights.

Rideshare companies have limited liability for driver actions. They argue that drivers are independent contractors responsible for their own conduct. However, rideshare companies can be held liable for negligent hiring or retention of dangerous drivers. Our attorneys investigate whether the rideshare company failed to properly screen or monitor the driver. This is similar to how we handle general car accident liability cases across Long Island.

The driver’s personal auto insurance may also apply. Coverage depends on whether the driver was logged into the rideshare app at the time of the accident. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s commercial insurance typically applies. If the driver was logged off, personal insurance applies. Understanding Uber accident liability is crucial for protecting your rights. Learn more about how we handle rideshare accident claims as well.

Rideshare Insurance Coverage: Closing the Gaps

Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for accidents. However, coverage gaps exist that can leave passengers without compensation. Understanding these gaps is crucial for protecting your rights. The Insurance Information Institute provides detailed information about rideshare insurance requirements and coverage limits.

When a rideshare driver is actively transporting a passenger, New York law is stricter than other states. Under VTL Article 44-B, the rideshare company must provide at least $1.25 million in liability coverage (higher than the national $1 million standard). This policy also provides No-Fault benefits for your medical bills. New York Insurance Law § 5102 establishes specific no-fault insurance requirements that apply to rideshare accidents.

Coverage gaps occur when the driver is logged into the app but waiting for a ride request. During this period, coverage may be limited or fall into a gap between the driver’s personal insurance and the rideshare company’s commercial policy. Our attorneys work to identify all available insurance coverage and pursue claims against every responsible party. Learn more about rideshare insurance claims to understand your options and maximize your recovery.

When a driver is logged off the app, personal auto insurance applies. The rideshare company’s insurance does not cover accidents during this period. However, if the driver was negligent, the driver’s personal insurance should cover your damages. Our personal injury attorneys have extensive experience navigating these complex insurance scenarios.

How We Calculate Rideshare Accident Compensation

Compensation in rideshare accident cases includes multiple types of damages. Our attorneys work to recover the full amount you deserve. Under New York CPLR § 1411, comparative negligence rules allow you to recover even if partially at fault.

Medical expenses form the foundation of your claim. This includes emergency room treatment, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care. We also pursue compensation for future medical expenses related to your injuries. Our team evaluates all medical records to ensure complete documentation of your damages.

Lost wages compensate you for income lost while recovering from your injuries. If your injuries prevent you from working, you deserve compensation for that lost income. Additionally, if your injuries reduce your earning capacity long-term, we pursue compensation for that loss. We work with economic experts to calculate lifetime earning capacity losses.

Pain and suffering damages compensate you for the physical pain and emotional trauma of the accident. These damages recognize the impact of your injuries on your quality of life. Your recovery amount is reduced by your percentage of fault under New York’s comparative negligence rule. However, you can still recover even if you are partially at fault. Our personal injury lawyer team has successfully recovered millions in accident injury compensation. See our results page for examples of settlements and verdicts we’ve obtained.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

Taking the right steps immediately after an accident protects your legal rights. Our attorneys recommend the following actions. According to the New York State Bar Association, prompt action is critical in personal injury cases.

First, seek medical attention and file your insurance paperwork immediately. In New York, you generally must file a No-Fault Application (NF-2) within 30 days of the accident to have your medical bills paid. If you miss this strict deadline, the insurance company can deny your medical coverage entirely.

Second, document the accident scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and traffic signs. Get contact information from witnesses. Request the police report and obtain the rideshare driver’s information. This evidence is crucial for establishing liability in your case.

Third, report the accident to the rideshare company. Uber and Lyft have specific procedures for reporting accidents. Follow these procedures carefully and keep records of all communications. Our attorneys can guide you through this process to ensure you protect your rights.

Fourth, contact an experienced rideshare accident attorney. Do not accept settlement offers from insurance companies without legal advice. Insurance companies often offer less than your claim is worth. Our attorneys negotiate aggressively to recover maximum compensation. Contact our office today to discuss your case with a qualified attorney.

Why Choose Parker Waichman LLP for Your Rideshare Accident Case

Parker Waichman LLP has decades of combined experience handling rideshare accident cases. Our attorneys understand the unique liability issues these cases present. We have recovered millions in compensation for rideshare accident victims. Our team includes attorneys recognized for their expertise in personal injury law.

Our firm holds the Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, the highest rating available. We have been recognized by Best Lawyers in America since 2010. Additionally, our attorneys have been named Super Lawyers and included in the National Trial Lawyers Top 100. These recognitions reflect our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.

We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our free consultation allows you to discuss your case with an experienced attorney at no cost. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide legal guidance. Visit our results and testimonials page to see how we’ve helped clients recover the compensation they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim?

While New York generally gives you three years to file a lawsuit, if your rideshare vehicle collided with a government vehicle (like a town truck or city bus), you generally have only 90 days to file a Notice of Claim. Missing this deadline can destroy your case.

Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule. You can recover compensation even if you are 99% at fault. However, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you recover $80,000. Our attorneys work to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your recovery.

What if the rideshare driver was uninsured?

Rideshare companies are required to maintain insurance coverage under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Article 44-B. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s insurance applies. If coverage is unavailable, your own uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Our attorneys investigate all available coverage options to ensure you receive full compensation.

How much is my rideshare accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on multiple factors. Medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering all affect your case value. The severity of your injuries, your age, and your earning capacity all matter. Our attorneys evaluate these factors and provide a realistic assessment of your case value. Contact us for a free case evaluation.

How long does a rideshare accident case take?

Most cases settle within 6-12 months. However, some cases require litigation and take longer. Our attorneys work efficiently to resolve your case quickly while pursuing maximum compensation. We keep you informed throughout the process and explain all settlement offers before you decide.

Do I need an attorney for my rideshare accident case?

Rideshare accident cases involve complex insurance coverage issues. Insurance companies have experienced adjusters and attorneys working to minimize your compensation. An experienced rideshare accident attorney levels the playing field. We negotiate aggressively and pursue litigation when necessary. Our team has successfully handled thousands of accident cases.

What should I do if the rideshare company denies my claim?

Contact an attorney immediately. Rideshare companies sometimes deny claims improperly. Our attorneys challenge these denials and pursue litigation if necessary. We have successfully recovered compensation in cases where rideshare companies initially denied liability. Do not accept a denial without consulting with an experienced attorney.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP Today for a Free Consultation

If you were injured in a rideshare accident in Melville, contact Parker Waichman LLP today. Our experienced attorneys are ready to help you recover compensation. Call 800-968-7529 for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case.

You deserve compensation for your injuries. Let our legal team fight for your rights. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with one of our Melville accident attorneys.

Rideshare Accident Lawyer In Melville, NY