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When you or a loved one is injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. You may face medical bills, lost income, and the stress of dealing with insurance companies. At Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, P.C., we are here to help you navigate these challenges and secure the compensation you deserve. As experienced New Rochelle rideshare accident lawyers, we advocate for your rights and support you every step of the way.
The Value of Rideshare and the Complexity of Accidents
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation in New Rochelle, offering convenience and accessibility for residents and visitors alike. However, this innovation also introduces unique legal complexities when accidents occur. Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare accidents involve multiple layers of insurance coverage, detailed app data, and specific legal frameworks. These intricacies make it essential to work with a knowledgeable New Rochelle rideshare accident lawyer who can navigate these challenges effectively.
Rideshare in New York
Rideshare services began operating in New York in 2017, a relatively recent development compared to the long history of taxis. While New York is traditionally known for its iconic yellow cabs, rideshare services have rapidly gained a significant foothold, providing an alternative mode of transportation for millions of residents and visitors. This shift underscores the importance of understanding the distinct legal and insurance challenges associated with rideshare accidents.
Rideshare Business Model
Understanding the value of rideshare services is crucial. They operate under a dynamic model where drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees. This classification creates a gray area for holding the rideshare company accountable for an accident.
Layers of Insurance Coverage
Additionally, rideshare companies’ insurance policies often have multiple layers of coverage. For example, Uber and Lyft typically provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, but coverage depends upon whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger or simply logged into the app. Navigating these complexities requires the expertise of a skilled New Rochelle rideshare accident lawyer.
Comparative Negligence
New York’s comparative negligence rule allows you to recover compensation even if you are partially at fault, though your share of fault will reduce your recovery. A knowledgeable New Rochelle rideshare accident lawyer can help identify all liable parties, minimize the impact of comparative fault, and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Why You Need Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers
When you work with Greenspan & Greenspan, you gain a trusted partner committed to your full recovery. Here’s how we can help:
- Understanding New York rideshare laws. We have extensive knowledge of the laws governing rideshare companies and their insurance policies. For example, under New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law, vehicle owners are typically liable for accidents caused by permissive drivers. However, rideshare companies often attempt to limit their liability.
- Gathering evidence. We’ll thoroughly investigate your case, collecting crucial evidence like rideshare app data, police reports, and eyewitness accounts to build a strong claim.
- Negotiating with insurers. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. We’ll handle negotiations, ensuring they don’t pressure you into accepting a settlement that doesn’t cover your damages.
- Representing you in court. If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial and fight for the compensation you deserve.
When you choose Greenspan & Greenspan, you’re getting a team that genuinely cares about your well-being and future.
Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Determining liability is a crucial step in maximizing your recovery. An experienced New Rochelle rideshare accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case to identify all responsible parties and ensure we pursue every avenue for compensation. This comprehensive approach is essential given the layered and sometimes overlapping insurance policies that come into play in rideshare accidents. Rideshare cases often require reviewing app activity logs, determining whether the driver was “on the clock,” and assessing whether rideshare-specific insurance policies apply.
Additionally, evidence like GPS data and communication records can provide critical details about the accident timeline. When all is said and done, there are a few parties that may be liable.
The Rideshare Driver
If the driver’s negligence caused the accident, they may be held responsible. This can include instances where the driver was distracted, fatigued, or violating traffic laws.
Uber or Lyft
These companies provide insurance coverage, but their liability depends on whether the driver was actively engaged in a ride. If the driver was en route to pick up a passenger or actively transporting one, Uber or Lyft’s $1 million liability policy may apply. However, if the driver was simply logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, a lower level of coverage might be available.
Other Drivers
In multi-vehicle accidents, other drivers may share liability if their actions contributed to the crash. Understanding how the accident happened is important to determining your path forward in this situation.
Vehicle Manufacturers
If a defect in the rideshare vehicle or another involved vehicle played a role in the accident, the manufacturer or a repair company could be held liable. Examples may include faulty brakes or power steering failure.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
Taking the proper steps after a rideshare accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek medical attention. Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor immediately. Medical records are critical to your claim.
- Report the accident. Notify the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. Additionally, make sure to report the incident to the rideshare company through their app.
- Gather evidence. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from witnesses and other parties involved.
- Consult a New Rochelle rideshare accident attorney. Contact Greenspan & Greenspan to discuss your case. Early legal representation can strengthen your claim.
Injuries often require extensive medical treatment, leading to significant financial and emotional burdens. As your New Rochelle Uber accident lawyer, we will fight to ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Following these steps can help strengthen your case.
Contact a New Rochelle Rideshare Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, P.C., is here to help. As your New Rochelle Lyft accident lawyer, we are committed to securing the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation.
When you choose Greenspan & Greenspan, you get a team that will stand by you, fight for your rights, and work tirelessly to help you rebuild your life. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. Together, we’ll work to rebuild your future.
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