Navigating the Blame Game: Uber & Lyft Accidents in New York
Uber and Lyft platforms have reshaped how New Yorkers commute, providing convenience at the tap of an app. However, with this transformation comes a new layer of complexity when accidents happen involving these services.
Determining who is at fault in car accidents involving Uber or Lyft can be tricky since, depending on the circumstances of the case, the fault can fall on the drivers, the companies, and other parties on the road.
Stick around to dive deeper into this tangled web where technology meets personal injury law.
Who to Sue After a Ride-Sharing Accident
Pinpointing liability in an Uber or Lyft accident involves closely examining how the incident unfolded. If a driver’s ride-share app is off, they are just like any other private motorist—the responsibility for any mishaps lies with them. However, if they are logged into the app and either waiting for a job or in the middle of a ride, both they and the company might be at fault, depending on the circumstances.
When third parties are involved, things can get even more convoluted. For instance, if poor road conditions contributed to the accident, a government entity responsible for maintaining safe streets could be liable. Similarly, if a vehicle malfunction played a role in what went down—a faulty brake system perhaps—then the car manufacturer might also find themselves facing claims.
Uber & Lyft’s Coverage Explained
Traditional drivers are fully covered by their personal policies. However, the waters get murky once you step into the world of ride-sharing. Uber and Lyft drivers are required to have their own insurance, but this only kicks in under certain conditions.
If they are logged into the app and on their way to pick up a passenger or already have someone in tow, that is when the company’s sizable policy—sometimes up to $1 million—takes precedence over personal coverage.
If both driver error and outside factors contribute to an accident, both personal and company-provided insurance might need to step up simultaneously, ensuring all bases are covered.
Navigating Post-Accident Steps: Ready, Set, Prepare
“Scoring compensation after an accident is not always easy. You have to be strategic from the jump,” says personal injury lawyer Neal Goldstein of Goldstein & Bashner. First, medical attention is crucial not just for your health but also for documenting injuries that could support your claim later. No matter how minor it seems, get checked.
Next up is scene documentation. Take pictures of everything from vehicle damages to street signs and visible injuries—all pivotal evidence. The sooner you do this, the fresher and more apparent everything will be.
You need to consult a lawyer early, too. Engage one swiftly because a savvy legal expert can dramatically steer the course of your compensation journey toward more favorable outcomes.
Decoding Recoverable Damages in Ride-Sharing Incidents
Though ride-sharing entities like Uber and Lyft flaunt coverage of up to $1 million, the compensation you receive is deeply influenced by your specific circumstances.
Key types of recoverable damages include medical expenses, which cover both initial treatment and ongoing healthcare needs; loss of wages for any work missed due to injuries; and pain and suffering, which compensates for physical discomfort and emotional stress stemming from the accident. There can also be claims related to property damage or necessary lifestyle adjustments due to lasting impairments.
Partnering with a proficient lawyer often significantly enhances the scope of recoverable damages. Their legal expertise ensures that every potential area of compensation is explored and maximized.
