New Yorkers rely on ridesharing services every day to get them where they need to go, and it’s easy to see why. For many people, they’re more convenient, more affordable, and quicker than alternative transit options. But as beneficial as they might be, rideshares like Uber are just as susceptible to accidents as any other mode of transportation.
If you or a loved one experiences a rideshare accident, you need to know your rights. Under New York law, Uber is classified as a transportation network company (TNC). This classification means Uber has to follow specific rules and insurance requirements that can affect your ability to get the compensation and benefits you’re entitled to.
Bottom line: If you or a loved one has been in an Uber car crash, seeking skilled legal counsel is essential. The seasoned New York City rideshare accident lawyers at Schwartzapfel Lawyers are available for a free consultation. Schedule with us online today or call 516-342-2200 now and get all the money and benefits you deserve.
Insurance Coverage For Uber Drivers In New York
Insurance is an important aspect of Uber accidents, but unfortunately, it’s anything but straightforward.
All drivers in the Big Apple need to have a minimum amount of insurance. However, because Uber drivers are classified as TNCs, they have different requirements than regular people just driving around. The amount of coverage an Uber driver needs depends on whether or not they have a passenger in their vehicle.
When a driver is logged into the Uber app but doesn’t have a passenger, they must carry a minimum of $75,000 for bodily injury to one person, $150,000 for total bodily injury in instances when two (2) or more people are hurt, and $25,000 for property damage. This policy must also include uninsured motorist coverage and no-fault coverage (personal injury protection).
Now, consider this: Once a passenger hops into that Uber, the insurance requirements skyrocket. The minimum bodily injury coverage jumps to a whopping $1.25 million for any person injured in an accident, and the property damage coverage also increases to $1.25 million. This is designed to provide substantial protection in case of a serious accident.
It could make sense to assume that Uber has millions of dollars at their disposal and should be able to compensate you for all of the damages you’ve experienced. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. While Uber does maintain commercial automobile insurance on behalf of its drivers, there’s a catch: They don’t guarantee payment of every claim.
This caveat means that even though Uber has insurance, getting them to pay out can be a battle — and it’s a battle you don’t want to fight alone. It’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side. They understand Uber’s insurance policies and can fight tooth and nail to ensure you get the compensation you’re entitled to.
Remember, insurance companies are in the business of making money, not paying it out. They’ll often try to minimize their liability, and without a skilled attorney, you could end up with far less than you deserve.
So, if you’ve been involved in an Uber accident, don’t let the insurance companies push you around. Contact the seasoned New York car crash attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers today.
We have the experience and knowledge to take on Uber and their insurance company, ensuring you get the maximum compensation possible. Don’t delay: Call us now at 516-342-2200 or schedule your free consultation online today. We’re ready to fight — and win! — for you.
Who’s Liable In New York Uber Accidents?
So, who’s responsible when an Uber accident happens in New York? Under New York personal injury law, if you’re hurt in an accident, you have the right to seek compensation from whoever caused it. Seems fair, doesn’t it? But there’s a catch when it comes to Uber accidents.
To get that compensation, you have to prove that the Uber driver was negligent, meaning they didn’t drive with the care a reasonable person would. In these cases, proving negligence can be tricky.
Uber accidents can happen for many reasons, including but not limited to:
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and incredibly dangerous, but it happens.
- Speeding And Aggressive Driving: Many of us have witnessed erratic drivers on the road. This type of “driving” is extremely unwise, unsafe, and just plain unacceptable.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, fiddling with the radio, or eating can all distract a driver from the road.
- Drowsy Driving: Tired drivers are often just as dangerous as drunk drivers.
These are just some examples of how an Uber driver could have been negligent during your accident. However, proving that any of these reasons caused your accident isn’t a walk in the park.
An experienced attorney can do the heavy lifting for you. They’ll investigate the crash, gather evidence like videos and accident reports, and talk to witnesses, building a solid case to show the Uber driver was at fault.
What Damages Are Available For Uber Accident Victims?
In general, there are three (3) types of damages you could receive after a rideshare accident:
- Economic Damages: These damages are the concrete costs associated with your injuries, like medical bills, lost wages, and future earning losses.
- Non-Economic Damages: These damages cover the pain and suffering you’ve experienced, any permanent disability, and the overall impact on your life.
- Punitive Damages: In rare cases, you might even get punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the Uber drivers if their actions were particularly reckless or outrageous.
Note: The financial compensation you receive should cover not just the financial toll the accident took on you but also the physical and emotional pain. It’s about making things as right as possible.
Remember, after an Uber accident, it’s important to act quickly. The sooner you contact a skilled attorney, the sooner they can start building your case and fighting for your rights. Don’t get overwhelmed by an accident’s aftermath.
Reach out to the seasoned New York car crash attorney at Schwartzapfel Lawyers. We’re here to help you through this tough time and to get you all the money and benefits you’re entitled to. Simply dial 516-342-2200 and allow our award-winning team to take it from there!
Statute Of Limitations For Filing An Uber Accident Lawsuit
In New York, you generally have three (3) years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This concept is called the statute of limitations.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. Certain circumstances might shorten or extend this timeframe. For instance, if the accident involved a government vehicle, different rules might apply. That’s why it is so important to talk to a skilled attorney right away. They can assess your specific situation and make sure no critical deadlines are missed.
Recovering Compensation Even If Partially At Fault
Now, let’s address a common concern: What if you were partly to blame for the accident? Can you still get compensation? In New York, the answer is yes, thanks to pure comparative negligence law. This means that even if you’re partly at fault, you can still recover damages. However, what you can collect is reduced depending on how muchyou’re at fault.
For example, if you were 20% at fault, your financial award would be reduced by 20%. While this might seem fair, insurance companies often try to twist things to their advantage. They might try to pin more blame on you to lower the amount they have to pay out. This is another reason why having a skilled attorney by your side is so important.
What Can You Do After An Uber Accident In New York?
If you or a loved one has been in an Uber accident, here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, Let a doctor look you over. Their records are often essential in proving your injuries and linking them to the accident.
- Contact A Skilled Attorney: This is arguably the single most important step. Your seasoned attorney can protect your rights and fight for compensation, among many other things.
- Report The Accident To Uber: In your report, don’t give any statements or answer questions until you’ve talked to a skilled attorney.
Don’t let the aftermath of an Uber accident leave you feeling lost and confused. Take action and get the help you need by contacting the experienced New York car crash attorneys of Schwartzapfel Lawyers today. We’re ready and able to fight for you every step of the way.
Injured? Call Schwartzapfel Lawyers Now!
If you or a loved one has been in an Uber accident, please don’t try to handle the situation alone. You don’t have to, nor should you. But remember, you have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit in New York.
For a successful outcome, the key is to act promptly and seek skilled legal counsel as soon as possible. Said differently, don’t delay! Your financial future is too important to leave to chance. Protect it today by calling the award-winning New York Uber accident attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers now at 516-342-2200 for a free consultation and peace of mind.
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this page should be considered legal advice. You should seek the appropriate counsel your situation requires. For more information, call 516-342-2200 now!
Sources
Schwartzapfel Lawyers, P.C. | Fighting For You
Insurance for Rideshare and Delivery Drivers | Uber
Uber Ride Accident: What to Do After a Crash | Uber
Statute of Limitations For Personal Injury in New York | NYC Bar
