New York Rideshare Accident Lawyer

For many New Yorkers, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get around the city. From navigating busy intersections near Times Square to zipping along the FDR Drive or dropping off passengers near Brooklyn’s iconic Barclays Center, these vehicles are everywhere in our bustling metropolis. But with their constant presence on the streets, accidents involving rideshare drivers have become an unfortunate reality. If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a rideshare accident, The experienced team at Hach & Rose, LLP, is here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Rideshare accidents can create confusion and stress, especially when dealing with multiple insurance companies and responsible parties. You need a New York City rideshare accident lawyer who understands this complex legal landscape and will fight tirelessly for your rights.

Why Choose Hach & Rose for Your New York City Rideshare Accident Claim?

When you’re recovering from a rideshare accident, the last thing you need is added stress. At Hach & Rose, we work hard to make this process as smooth as possible for you. For nearly 25 years, our firm has proudly served New Yorkers, offering skilled and compassionate representation to accident victims. Here’s why clients trust us with their rideshare accident claims:

• Proven Results: Our attorneys have recovered over $1 billion in settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients. From minor injuries to life-altering accidents, we build strong cases that get results.
• Personal Attention: Whether your case is worth $10,000 or $10 million, we treat every client with the same level of care and dedication.
• Experience That Matters: Rideshare accident claims are unique. They involve complex insurance policies, gig economy regulations, and the liability of large corporations like Uber and Lyft. We have the experience and resources to tackle even the most complex claims.
• Compassionate Advocacy: At Hach & Rose, LLP, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can have. We’re here not just to represent you but to truly support you through this process.

Choosing the right legal team can make all the difference. When you hire us, you’re gaining an ally who will relentlessly advocate for your best interests. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Trust Hach & Rose to help you rebuild after a rideshare accident.

Who May Be Eligible to File an Uber or Lyft Accident Claim?

Determining eligibility for a rideshare accident claim can be complicated. However, if negligence or recklessness was involved, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Here are a few examples of individuals who may be eligible:

• Rideshare Passengers: If you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft during the accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries.
• Drivers of Other Vehicles: If a rideshare driver was at fault for your accident, you may be eligible to file a claim against Lyft or Uber’s insurance, depending on the driver’s status at the time.
• Pedestrians and Cyclists: If you were struck by a rideshare vehicle, whether as a pedestrian, cyclist, or someone else on the road, you may also be entitled to compensation.
• Rideshare Drivers: If you drive for Uber or Lyft and were injured in an accident caused by another party, you may have a claim for damages. This could include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

Eligibility often depends on factors like the driver’s app status or whether multiple parties may share partial responsibility.  Accidents happen fast, but the aftermath can leave lasting challenges. No matter what role you were playing at the time of the crash, you could be eligible for compensation. Contact our team today to learn more about your legal options.

How Does Insurance Work After an Uber or Lyft Accident in NYC?

Insurance coverage after a rideshare accident can feel like a puzzle, especially when trying to figure out which policy applies. Uber and Lyft provide varying levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status during the accident. It’s important to know how these policies work to protect yourself and secure the compensation you need. Here’s a breakdown of the coverage scenarios that might apply based on the rideshare driver’s app status:

Offline or the App is Off

If a rideshare driver is not logged into the app at the time of the accident, they are considered to be “offline.” This means that Uber or Lyft’s insurance does not apply. Instead, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy will likely provide coverage for any resulting damages or injuries. Unfortunately, personal insurance policies often have lower coverage limits, and they may attempt to deny claims, particularly if the driver was using their vehicle for rideshare purposes at the time. When you’re dealing with an accident under these circumstances, Hach & Rose can step in to deal with the insurance companies, so you don’t have to.

Available or Waiting for a Ride Request

When the rideshare driver has the app on and is waiting for ride requests, a limited version of Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance applies. Typically, this includes:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury
• $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 for property damage

This period can be tricky, as rideshare companies may try to distance themselves from liability. Additionally, your own insurance may need to play a role if the damages exceed the policy limits. Our legal team will work to ensure all applicable coverage is fully utilized for your benefit.

En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or During a Ride

Once a driver accepts a ride and is either on the way to pick up a passenger or actively transporting them, Uber or Lyft’s full insurance policy is in effect. These policies typically include:

• $1 million in third-party liability coverage
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
• Contingent collision and comprehensive coverage (if the driver has their own collision coverage)

This is the most comprehensive coverage rideshare companies offer, but even so, claiming compensation from these policies can be challenging. If you’ve been hurt as a rideshare passenger or another road user, we know how to cut through red tape and fight for the compensation you are owed.

The Insurance Company Made Me an Offer. Should I Take It?

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you might feel relieved when the insurance company quickly offers you a settlement. The truth, however, is that accepting an initial offer could leave you with far less than you need and deserve. Before you agree to anything, it’s critical to consult a qualified lawyer who can review the offer and explain your options. Insurance companies often act swiftly, not out of concern for your well-being, but to protect their bottom line. Their goal is to settle your claim for as little money as possible. They may apply pressure, telling you it’s a “final offer” or implying you’ll get nothing if you don’t act fast. Some of the common tactics they use to shortchange victims include:

• Undervaluing Your Injuries: Initial settlements rarely account for the true cost of medical expenses, ongoing care, or the long-term impact of your injuries.
• Rushing You to Settle: Insurance companies know that accident victims are often overwhelmed with bills and uncertainties. They use this to their advantage by pushing a quick settlement that may not fully cover your losses.
• Downplaying Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, are harder to quantify. Insurers often ignore or downplay these damages to reduce what they owe you.
• Shifting Blame: They may try to pin part of the responsibility for the accident on you. This can reduce the amount they must pay out under New York’s comparative negligence laws.

At Hach & Rose, we know their playbook. Our experienced attorneys can assess your claim, negotiate with the insurance company, and make sure you receive fair compensation. Don’t settle for less than you’re entitled to. Speak with a lawyer before making any decisions that could impact your future.

Compensation Available to New York City Rideshare Accident Victims

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare service, you may be entitled to a range of compensation to address your physical, emotional, and financial losses. Compensation can include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes current bills for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy, as well as anticipated future medical needs.
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings: If your injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you can pursue compensation to cover your lost income and reduced earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages recognize the emotional and physical toll your injuries have taken, including chronic pain, emotional trauma, and diminished quality of life.
• Property Damage: If your vehicle, bike, or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you can claim the cost of repairs or replacement.
• Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident caused permanent limitations or changes to your appearance, you may be entitled to compensation for the significant life impacts these injuries bring.
• Wrongful Death: If you lost a loved one in a rideshare accident, you might be eligible to pursue compensation for funeral expenses, lost future income, and the emotional toll of your loss.

Every case is unique, so the amount you may be entitled to will depend on the specific circumstances of your accident. The team at Hach & Rose can thoroughly investigate your case and ensure all opportunities for compensation are explored.

NYC Rideshare Accident Claim FAQs

Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding rideshare accident claims in New York City: How much does a personal injury attorney cost at Hach & Rose? We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything upfront. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t recover compensation in your case, you owe us no attorney’s fees. What if I’m partly to blame for the accident? Under New York’s comparative negligence laws, you may still be eligible for compensation even if you share some blame for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. Our attorneys will work to minimize your liability and maximize your recovery. What is the statute of limitations for filing a rideshare accident claim in New York? For personal injury cases, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim in New York. However, certain circumstances, such as claims involving government entities, may have different deadlines. It’s best to consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss important time limits. Do I need a lawyer if the driver’s insurance or rideshare company seems cooperative? Even if the rideshare company or insurance adjusters appear helpful, it’s essential to have legal representation. Their goal is to limit payouts, and without a lawyer, you risk accepting a settlement that doesn’t cover your true losses. A skilled lawyer will ensure your rights are protected, and your compensation is fair.

Contact the New York City Rideshare Accident Lawyers at Hach & Rose Today

An accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver can leave you with overwhelming costs, stress, and uncertainty about what comes next. The compassionate team at Hach & Rose can help you recover the compensation you need. When you work with us, we will:

• Investigate your accident to identify all liable parties.
• Navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and negotiate on your behalf.
• Gather evidence, including witness statements and accident reports, to build the strongest possible case.
• Advocate tirelessly for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to under the law.

Our team has won over $1 billion in settlements and verdicts for our clients, and we are ready to fight for you, too. Don’t wait to start your claim. Time matters in personal injury cases, and the sooner you act, the better your chances of securing full compensation. Contact Hach & Rose today at (212) 779-0057 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced New York City rideshare accident lawyer. We’re ready to stand by your side and help you regain control of your life.