Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers in The Bronx
A late-night rideshare trip through the vibrant streets of the Bronx can be a convenient way to travel, but an unexpected collision can turn your world upside down. One moment, you’re headed home or to a gathering with friends, and the next, you’re dealing with pain, medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. When everything calms down, you need someone to help you understand the complex legal issues involved in rideshare accidents.
At Greenspan & Greenspan, we have decades of experience helping victims of rideshare accidents recover compensation for their injuries. If you’re looking for a Bronx rideshare accident lawyer, contact us today to see how we can help you.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in the Bronx
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how people travel in the Bronx. However, these conveniences come with risks, as rideshare accidents can involve:
- Passengers of an Uber or Lyft,
- Pedestrians or cyclists struck by a rideshare vehicle, or
- Passengers and drivers of other vehicles.
Rideshare accidents often lead to unique legal challenges, such as determining who is at fault and understanding complex insurance policies. If you or a loved one have been injured in a rideshare accident, our knowledgeable Bronx rideshare accident attorney can help you overcome these hurdles and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Key New York Laws Governing Rideshare Accidents
New York has specific laws and regulations that apply to rideshare accidents.
Insurance Requirements for Rideshare Drivers
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law requires rideshare companies to maintain specific insurance coverage throughout the various stages of a driver’s ride:
- App off. The driver’s personal insurance applies.
- App on, no passenger. Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage up to $75,000 per person, $150,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Passenger en route. When the rider is in the vehicle or the driver is on the way to pick up a rider, the coverage increases to $1.25 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Understanding insurance requirements and when they apply can significantly affect how you handle your claim.
Notice of Claim for Municipal Liability
In New York, you have a strict 90-day deadline to file a notice of claim from the accident date. This notice is a formal heads-up to the city about the accident and your intent to seek compensation for injuries or damages. Missing this deadline could prevent you from suing the city and getting the compensation you deserve.
Taxi Medallion Owners Operating Through Rideshare Platforms
Some drivers in the Bronx own taxi medallions but also work for Uber or Lyft. In these cases, liability may overlap between the medallion owner’s insurance, the rideshare company’s coverage, and possibly the medallion’s insurance policies. Handling these layers requires an experienced attorney familiar with New York’s unique taxi and rideshare regulations.
Steps to Take After a Bronx Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, taking the following steps can strengthen your case:
- Prioritize medical care. Get medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Medical records provide essential evidence of your damages.
- Report the accident. Contact the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. You should also report the incident through the rideshare app.
- Collect evidence. Take videos and pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries you sustained. Be sure to exchange contact information with the rideshare driver, passengers (if you were on a shared ride), and any witnesses present.
- Consult an attorney. Contact a Bronx Uber accident lawyer to discuss your options and ensure proper filing of your claim.
Seeking legal advice early on can help protect your rights and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
The Importance of Hiring a Bronx Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Our Bronx rideshare accident attorney guides you through the challenging terrain of multiple insurance policies and intricate liability questions by:
- Identifying the responsible parties. We identify and investigate all parties involved in the accident to pinpoint who caused your injuries. These parties may include the rideshare driver, company, other drivers, or vehicle manufacturers.
- Negotiating with insurance companies. Insurers often employ aggressive tactics to minimize payouts. Your attorney negotiates, demanding fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Understanding applicable laws. Claims involving government entities or taxi medallion owners present unique challenges. We also ensure the accurate and timely filing of all required documents to comply with regulations.
A skilled Bronx Lyft accident lawyer will protect your rights and handle your case with the care it deserves.
What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different from Traditional Car Accidents?
Rideshare accidents differ from traditional car accidents in several ways, including:
- Insurance complexities. Multiple policies may apply, including the driver’s personal insurance and the rideshare company’s commercial coverage, which can lead to disputes over which policy is responsible for covering specific damages.
- Company policies. Uber and Lyft each have their own claims processes. For instance, Uber’s terms of service require notification through their app or website, while Lyft may request additional documentation before processing a claim.
- Employment vs. independent contractor status. Uber and Lyft drivers are typically classified as independent contractors, limiting the companies’ direct liability.
- Difference between rideshares and NYC taxis. Registered NYC taxis operate under a medallion system with separate insurance and regulatory requirements, unlike rideshare vehicles. They lack the high-level commercial insurance coverage rideshares provide during active rides.
Dealing with a traditional car accident is difficult enough. Rideshare accidents can be even more complex. A knowledgeable rideshare accident lawyer can help you navigate the road to obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Take Charge and Contact a Bronx Rideshare Accident Attorney Today
Life doesn’t stop after a rideshare accident, but the path to recovery can feel daunting. At Greenspan & Greenspan, we handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. With decades of experience and a commitment to our clients, we’re ready to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today, and let us develop a strategy to rebuild your future—one step at a time.
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