Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Port Washington, NY

Rideshare accidents in Port Washington create unique legal challenges that differ significantly from standard car accidents. When you ride in an Uber or Lyft, you enter a complex web of insurance policies, liability questions, and corporate responsibility. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you need a rideshare accident lawyer who understands these complications and can fight for your rights. Parker Waichman LLP has recovered over $2 billion for injured clients, including substantial settlements in auto accident cases. Our team serves Port Washington from our headquarters at 6 Harbor Park Drive, and we’re ready to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation—we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Why Choose Parker Waichman LLP for Your Rideshare Accident Claim

When you’re injured in a rideshare accident, you need an attorney who understands both personal injury law and the unique insurance landscape of companies like Uber and Lyft. Parker Waichman LLP brings decades of experience handling complex accident cases. Our founding partners have over 40 years of combined experience, and our team includes 20+ attorneys who focus on personal injury and mass tort litigation.

We’ve recovered millions for clients injured in auto accidents, including a $3.51 million settlement for a client who suffered severe injuries from a negligent driver. Our attorneys understand how rideshare companies operate, what insurance policies apply to your situation, and how to identify all available sources of compensation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we recover money for you. We also offer free consultations, so you can discuss your case with a real attorney at no cost.

How Rideshare Accidents Differ from Regular Car Accidents

Insurance Coverage Complexity

Rideshare accidents involve multiple insurance policies that don’t exist in typical car accidents. When you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft, you may have coverage from the rideshare company’s commercial insurance policy, the driver’s personal auto insurance, or both—depending on the circumstances.

The coverage available changes based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. If the driver had the app on and was actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft carry $1 million in liability coverage. If the driver was waiting for a ride request with the app on, coverage may be limited. If the driver had the app off, you may only have access to the driver’s personal insurance policy, which often carries lower limits.

New York’s No-Fault system pays your initial medical bills, but strict deadlines apply. You generally must file a No-Fault Application (Form NF-2) within 30 days of the accident. If you miss this strict deadline, the insurance carrier can legally deny your medical claims, leaving you with the bills. However, rideshare accidents often involve injuries serious enough to exceed these no-fault thresholds, allowing you to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. Understanding New York personal injury law is essential to maximizing your recovery.

Independent Contractor Status

Rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification affects liability in important ways. Because drivers are independent contractors, rideshare companies sometimes argue they’re not responsible for driver negligence. However, courts have increasingly held rideshare companies accountable for their drivers’ actions, especially when the company controls how drivers operate.

An experienced rideshare accident attorney in Port Washington knows how to navigate these liability questions and hold all responsible parties accountable—including the rideshare company itself, the driver, and any other vehicles involved in the accident. This is why choosing the right lawyer matters for your case outcome.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage in New York

Uber and Lyft maintain significant insurance policies to cover accidents involving their drivers. New York law is stricter than other states. Under VTL Article 44-B, while a passenger is in the vehicle, rideshare companies must provide at least $1.25 million in liability coverage (higher than the national $1 million standard). This ensures greater protection for victims of catastrophic injuries in Port Washington.

The coverage picture changes depending on what the driver was doing when the accident occurred. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s commercial policy applies. If the driver was waiting for a ride request with the app on, coverage may be more limited. If the driver had the app off, the driver’s personal insurance becomes the primary coverage source.

Underinsured motorist coverage is another important resource. If the at-fault driver carries insufficient insurance, your own underinsured motorist coverage can help bridge the gap. Parker Waichman LLP identifies all available insurance sources and pursues claims against each one to maximize your recovery. Our personal injury attorneys have extensive experience navigating complex insurance disputes.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Port Washington

Rideshare drivers cause accidents for many of the same reasons other drivers do. Distracted driving ranks among the most common causes—drivers checking navigation apps, responding to ride requests, or using their phones take their attention off the road. Speeding and reckless driving also cause rideshare accidents, as do failures to follow traffic laws like running red lights or making unsafe lane changes.

Vehicle maintenance issues sometimes contribute to accidents. A rideshare driver operating a vehicle with faulty brakes, worn tires, or other mechanical problems may lose control or fail to stop in time. Driver fatigue also plays a role, especially for drivers working long shifts to maximize earnings. Identifying the specific cause of your accident helps establish negligence and strengthens your claim. Understanding types of car accidents can help you recognize liability.

Types of Injuries and Compensation You May Recover

Rideshare accidents can cause serious injuries that affect your health, finances, and quality of life. Medical expenses form the foundation of most claims. These include emergency room treatment, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care. Some injuries require long-term treatment, and your claim should account for future medical needs.

Lost wages represent another significant category of damages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for income you lose during your recovery. If your injuries cause permanent disability, you may recover compensation for lost earning capacity—the difference between what you would have earned and what you can earn going forward. Pain and suffering damages compensate you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.

Permanent disability or disfigurement may also warrant additional compensation. In cases where a rideshare accident results in death, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims to recover compensation for their loss. Catastrophic injuries from rideshare accidents often qualify for substantial damages.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

Your actions immediately after a rideshare accident can significantly impact your case. First, seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Some injuries develop over hours or days, and medical records create important documentation of your injuries.

Document the accident scene if you’re able to do so safely. Take photos of vehicle damage, the accident location, traffic signs, and road conditions. Get contact information from witnesses who saw the accident. Preserve the rideshare app records showing the driver’s information and trip details. Report the accident to the rideshare company through the app.

Avoid admitting fault or discussing the accident with the other driver’s insurance company without legal representation. Don’t accept a quick settlement offer without understanding the full extent of your injuries. Contact Parker Waichman LLP for a free consultation as soon as possible after your accident. Understanding when to get an attorney can protect your legal rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the rideshare driver was at fault?

If the rideshare driver caused the accident through negligence, you can pursue a claim against the driver and the rideshare company’s insurance. The rideshare company carries substantial liability coverage when a driver is actively transporting a passenger. Your attorney will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a case showing the driver’s negligence caused your injuries. This is similar to pursuing claims in other car accident cases.

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

New York law gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should contact an attorney much sooner. Early investigation preserves evidence, identifies witnesses, and allows your attorney to build the strongest possible case. Insurance companies also have deadlines for claim notices, so prompt action protects your rights. Learn more about the timeline for car accident claims.

Will my case go to trial or settle?

Most rideshare accident cases settle before trial. Insurance companies often prefer to settle rather than face the uncertainty and expense of litigation. However, your attorney should be prepared to take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation. Parker Waichman LLP has the experience and resources to handle complex litigation when necessary. Review our verdicts and settlements to see examples of our results.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

New York follows a ‘Pure’ Comparative Negligence rule (CPLR § 1411). Unlike states that bar you from suing if you were mostly to blame, in New York, you can recover compensation even if you were 99% at fault. Your payout is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Don’t assume you have no case just because you made a mistake. An experienced attorney can argue that the rideshare driver bears primary responsibility for the accident. Understanding how comparative negligence works is crucial to your case.

How much does it cost to hire Parker Waichman LLP?

Parker Waichman LLP works on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we recover money for you. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict we obtain, so we’re motivated to maximize your recovery. We also offer free consultations, so you can discuss your case with an attorney at no cost. Learn more about lawyer fees and settlement structures.

Can I claim compensation if I was a passenger, driver, or pedestrian?

Yes. Passengers injured in rideshare accidents can pursue claims against the rideshare company and driver. If you were driving for a rideshare company when another vehicle hit you, you can claim against that driver’s insurance. Pedestrians struck by rideshare vehicles can also pursue claims. The specific process varies depending on your role in the accident, but Parker Waichman LLP handles all three types of cases. We also handle pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents.

What evidence do I need for my rideshare accident claim?

Key evidence includes medical records documenting your injuries, photos of vehicle damage and the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, rideshare app records showing the driver’s information, and documentation of lost wages. Your attorney will gather this evidence and use it to build a compelling case for compensation. Understanding the importance of police reports and documentation strengthens your claim.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP for Your Free Rideshare Accident Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Port Washington, don’t wait to seek legal help. Parker Waichman LLP has the experience, resources, and commitment to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call 800-968-7529 today to schedule your free consultation. We serve Port Washington and the surrounding areas, and we’re ready to fight for your rights. Our Port Washington personal injury attorneys are available to discuss your case.

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