Rideshare Accidents in New York City

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have completely changed the way we travel. Especially in larger metropolitan areas like New York City, they are an immensely popular alternative to public transportation. Not only that, but ridesharing services have been widely recognized as helping decrease the rates of drunk driving.

While using a rideshare service can be cost-effective, easy, and convenient, there will always be a risk whenever your safety relies on a stranger in the driver’s seat. Many Uber or Lyft drivers are former taxi cab and public bus drivers, and many people who use these apps had previously been frequent users of the city’s transportation system. As these rideshare services rise in popularity, so do the number of cars out on the road. An increase in vehicles on the road may also lead to a higher risk of getting into an automobile accident.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a car accident while using a rideshare service, it’s important to contact an experienced New York rideshare accident attorney right away to understand your options. At Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP, we are dedicated to helping victims work through this complex legal process. We hold the right parties accountable, and help you receive the financial compensation you rightfully deserve. For a free case evaluation, please call 800-223-2814.

Rideshare Services in New York

Up until 2017, the State of New York had a somewhat strained relationship with ridesharing. Before then, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft had been banned throughout upstate New York and Long Island due to fears for passenger and driver safety. Now, rideshare services are referred to as transportation network companies (TNCs) and are widely used throughout the state.

In New York City, the insurance laws for these TNCs are different than in other places. All drivers for transportation network companies are required to be licensed by the Taxi and Limo Commission (TLC), to ensure everyone using these services will be matched with an experienced and qualified driver.

Drivers operating outside of the city, however, are not limited to these standards, so there is a higher risk involved. That being said, there’s always going to be some level of risk when using a rideshare service. Regardless of the circumstances, car accidents usually have the same results: serious, and often life-changing injuries.

The Role of Insurance in a Rideshare Accident

After any motor vehicle accident, you’ll look for the insurance coverage. When the accident occurred while using a rideshare service, this can be confusing. First and foremost, as the passenger of the vehicle, you won’t be held liable for the actions of the driver. Once fault has been determined and you file a claim, you will receive an offer from the insurance company of the individual rideshare driver. You could also file a claim with the rideshare company’s insurance provider to cover additional costs in the event of an accident. Uber and Lyft both have commercial insurance policies to protect passengers who are injured while the app is online and the ride is in progress.

What Damages Could I Recover?

Victims of car accidents often find themselves struggling to deal with the many different ways in which their injuries affect their lives. If you have been involved in an automobile accident with the driver of a rideshare vehicle, you may be able to receive financial compensation for your:

• Medical expenses
• Property damage
• Lost future earnings
• Lost income
• Physical rehabilitation
• Emotional pain

 Rideshare Accident Settlement Highlight

“My experience was really, really great.” -Lawrence C.

$485,000.00 Settlement – Uber Driver Injured in Three Car Collision (New York)

*Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome in your case. 

Working With a New York Rideshare Accident Attorney

Following an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, it may not be clear who is actually at fault. Proving liability and filing your claim can be complex due to the separate insurance laws that apply to rideshare services in New York. If you’re dealing with a severe injury on top of that, it can easily turn into a stressful and difficult process.

The experienced New York personal injury team at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP, wants to help you move past this tough experience and get back to living your life. We will answer all of your questions and guide you through filing your claim, working with insurance companies, and recovering damages from the liable parties. Call 800-223-2814 today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.