Rideshare Accident Lawyer Rockland County, NY
When you are in a rideshare accident in New York, it is time to speak with a Rockland County, NY rideshare accident lawyer to see what can be done about filing a claim. You have the right to pursue compensation when you have been the victim of a rideshare accident and speaking with a lawyer can help you understand what steps to take to prepare for your claim. It is crucial to be prepared to gather as much evidence as possible since many rideshare companies–Uber and Lyft, for example–will try to deny responsibility and say that their drivers are independent contractors. This can complicate matters and make it confusing when trying to pinpoint who is responsible. Trust the team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. to help you with your accident case.
Will any insurance cover my injuries after a rideshare accident?
You may feel distraught at the idea that the responsible party might not cover your medical records and other damages after you were injured in a rideshare accident. Because of how complicated these cases can be, you want to work with a Rockland County rideshare accident lawyer as early on in the process as possible to set yourself up for success. For example, you may think that you can simply file with the rideshare driver’s insurance but this may not be the best route to go. Their personal insurance may not cover accidents that happen when they are using their car for commercial use. Your lawyer will be able to investigate the best way to file for compensation.
What if someone else was responsible for causing the accident?
If you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft and another driver was responsible for the accident, you would approach this similarly to how you would a traditional car accident case. You would file your injury claim with the at-fault driver and pursue compensation through their insurance. It may feel more complicated if you are using a ridesharing service at the time of the accident, but if your driver was not responsible you can pursue compensation from the other party.
What kinds of damages are available in these accidents?
Similar to other vehicle accidents, there are many types of damages that may be available to you. It is possible to win damages for:
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Medical expenses, past, present, and future
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
Get Help For Your Rideshare Accident Claim Now
You should not underestimate what your case is worth. When an insurance agent calls you to talk about a settlement, the best thing you can do is get them to speak with your lawyer for negotiations. Your lawyer will be prepared with an estimate of what your case is worth and will know when an offer is too low. When you are prepared to file a rideshare accident claim, call the trusted team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. Our Rockland County rideshare accident lawyer is here to help with your case.
While rideshare services have revolutionized transportation, they also introduce unique legal considerations when accidents occur, which is why it’s important to have a skillful Rockland County, NY rideshare accident lawyer in your area. Rideshare accident cases involve specific elements that distinguish them from typical car accident cases. Your lawyer will help you understand how a rideshare accident differs from other car accident cases, but in the meantime, we’ve listed five key components to be aware of with rideshare accidents.
Rideshare Company Liability
One unique element in rideshare accident cases is the potential liability of the rideshare company itself. Rideshare companies typically classify their drivers as independent contractors, which can complicate matters when determining who is responsible for the accident. However, rideshare companies may also have liability coverage that comes into play when the driver is actively engaged in providing services through the platform. Understanding the rideshare company’s liability policies and how they apply to the accident is crucial for determining the available sources of compensation.
Insurance Coverage
Rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurance policies, adding complexity to the claims process. Rideshare drivers typically have their personal auto insurance policies, which may have limitations or exclusions for accidents that occur while driving for hire. Rideshare companies typically provide insurance coverage that applies when the driver is en route to pick up a passenger or during an active ride. Determining the applicable insurance coverage, including the driver’s personal policy, the rideshare company’s coverage, and any other involved parties, is crucial for pursuing a successful claim.
Driver Status and Activity
Another unique element in rideshare accident cases is the driver’s status and activity at the time of the accident. Rideshare drivers can be classified into three distinct periods: offline, online but awaiting a ride request, and actively transporting a passenger. The driver’s status at the time of the accident determines which insurance coverage applies and may affect the level of liability of the rideshare company. Establishing the driver’s status and activity during the accident is essential for determining the appropriate legal and insurance considerations.
Gathering Electronic Evidence
Rideshare accident cases often involve the use of technology and electronic evidence. Rideshare platforms maintain detailed records of driver activity, including trip logs, timestamps, and GPS data. This electronic evidence can be crucial in establishing the driver’s actions leading up to the accident and determining liability. Additionally, gathering evidence from the involved parties’ smartphones, such as call records or text messages, may provide valuable information about the circumstances surrounding the accident. Understanding how to access and utilize this electronic evidence is vital in building a strong case.
Complex Liability Determination
Rideshare accidents can involve multiple parties, making liability determination more complex than in typical car accidents. Liability may extend beyond the rideshare driver to include other motorists, pedestrians, or even third parties responsible for road maintenance or defective vehicles. Analyzing the actions and responsibilities of each party involved in the accident is crucial for accurately determining liability and pursuing appropriate compensation. Skilled Rockland County rideshare accident lawyers with experience can help navigate the complexities of liability determination and ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.
When you’re searching for a dedicated Rockland County rideshare accident lawyer, don’t hesitate to contact Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman. We will tirelessly fight for your rights and ensure you are receiving maximized compensation for your rideshare accident.