From the vibrant streets of Hempstead to the scenic shores of Montauk, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become essential for daily commutes and leisure travel throughout Long Island.
However, when accidents involving these services occur on Long Island, victims need a skilled Rideshare Accident Lawyer to protect their rights and secure fair compensation.
At William Mattar Law Offices, we understand the complexities of rideshare accident cases and are committed to helping you navigate the legal process.
Whether you're a passenger, driver, or third party affected by a rideshare accident in popular areas like Garden City or the Hamptons, our experienced team is here to support you. Don't face this challenging time alone. Contact William Mattar Law Offices today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice you deserve.
Why Choose William Mattar Law Offices for Your Rideshare Accident Claim?
The legal team at William Mattar Law Offices has extensive experience handling complex personal injury cases, including those involving rideshare services. We understand the unique challenges that arise in Uber and Lyft accidents, such as determining liability between the driver, the rideshare company, and other involved parties.
Our attorneys are well-versed in New York's transportation laws and the specific regulations governing rideshare companies, ensuring we can effectively navigate your case.
We have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. We employ a comprehensive approach to each case, thoroughly investigating the accident, gathering crucial evidence, and working with expert witnesses when necessary.
Our team is committed to maximizing your compensation, covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages you may have incurred. We also pride ourselves on our client-centered approach, providing personalized attention and keeping you informed throughout the legal process.
If you suffered injuries in an Uber or Lyft accident in Long Island, contact William Mattar Law Offices to discuss your case. We offer free initial case consultations and a “no fee until we win” guarantee, meaning you don’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Contact us today to discuss your case and to hear your options for financial recovery.
How Common Are Uber and Lyft Accidents?
Accidents involving rideshares such as Uber and Lyft are similar to other motor vehicle accidents. Many of the same factors that contribute to other car accidents, including speeding, distracted driving, etc., can play a role in a rideshare crash.
A recent survey of Boston area rideshare passengers found that roughly 15% of ridesharing trips in Boston replace more “spatially efficient modes of travel,” such as public buses and trains. This suggests that increasing rideshare vehicles in the region could exacerbate traffic congestion in peak traffic periods.
According to a study conducted by Rice University and the University of Chicago, introducing rideshare services in major cities has led to a 3% annual increase in fatal accidents.
The study found that traffic fatalities rose from just under 33,000 before rideshare services became popular to over 37,000 as they became more mainstream. The study posits that rideshare services have put more cars on the road, leading to more accidents, injuries, and deaths involving drivers, passengers, bikers, and pedestrians.
How Does Insurance Work in a Long Island Rideshare Accident?
Rideshare companies maintain an insurance policy for rideshare drivers and other motorists and passengers in the event of an accident. The accident coverage will generally vary depending on the rideshare state (for example, whether the driver has picked up a passenger or not)
If an Uber accident injures you, various rules determine the insurance coverage available through the company policy.
For New York Uber drivers, the available coverage will depend on whether the driver was online (logged into the app) at the time of a rideshare collision. Here’s a possible breakdown:
- If a driver is involved in an accident while their app is off, they must use their personal car insurance.
- If a driver is in an accident while their app is online and awaiting a trip request, rideshare coverage generally includes liability for bodily injury (up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage).
- If an Uber or Lyft driver is involved in an accident while they are “on trip” or en route to pick up a rider or while a rider is in the car, rideshare coverage will include:
- up to $1 million in auto liability insurance
- uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage
- contingent collision and comprehensive insurance
This tiered system can complicate claims, as determining the driver's exact status at the time of the accident is crucial. Additionally, rideshare companies may try to avoid liability by arguing the driver was an independent contractor.
It's important to note that these policies may have limitations and exclusions. For instance, they might not cover the driver's injuries or damage to their vehicle in certain circumstances.
What Compensation is Available to Long Island Rideshare Accident Victims?
Rideshare accident victims in Long Island may be eligible for various types of compensation, depending on the specifics of their case:
- Medical expenses: This covers current and future costs related to treating injuries sustained in the accident, including hospital bills, medication, physical therapy, and any necessary long-term care.
- Lost wages or income: Compensation for income lost due to time away from work during recovery, as well as potential future earnings if the injury affects long-term earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident and injuries.
- Property damage: Reimbursement for repair or replacement of personal property damaged in the accident, such as a vehicle or personal belongings.
- Disability or disfigurement: Additional compensation if the accident results in permanent disability or visible scarring.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Damages for the inability to participate in activities or hobbies enjoyed before the accident.
- Wrongful death benefits: In fatal accidents, family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
The amount and types of compensation available will depend on factors such as the severity of injuries, the impact on daily life, and the specific circumstances of the accident. An experienced attorney can help assess your case and pursue all applicable forms of compensation.
Who May Be Liable in a Long Island Uber or Lyft Accident Case?
In a Long Island rideshare accident, you can hold several parties liable, depending on the specific circumstances of the incident:
- Rideshare driver: If the driver's negligence caused the accident, they may be held personally responsible.
- Rideshare company (Uber or Lyft): These companies may be liable, especially if the accident occurred while the driver was actively engaged in a ride or en route to pick up a passenger.
- Other motorists: If another driver's actions contributed to or caused the accident, they could be held liable.
- Vehicle manufacturers: In cases where vehicle defects contributed to the accident, the manufacturer might be held responsible.
- Government entities: If poor road conditions or inadequate signage contributed to the accident, local municipalities or state agencies could face liability.
- Passengers: In some cases, if a passenger's behavior distracted the driver or otherwise contributed to the accident, they might share some liability.
- Third-party contractors: The repair shop could be held liable if the rideshare vehicle was recently serviced and a mechanical failure led to the accident.
Determining liability in rideshare accidents can require the careful analysis of a lawyer due to the multiple parties involved and the varying insurance coverage depending on the driver's status at the time of the accident.
How Can a Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Help after a Long Island accident?
Rideshare accident cases can be complicated for several reasons. Working with an accident attorney can alleviate many of the stresses involved in recovering compensation for an injury. Here are some ways a lawyer from William Mattar Law Offices can provide valuable assistance with your rideshare accident case should our firm be retained:
- Case evaluation: We'll thoroughly assess your case, examining all details to determine the best legal strategy.
- Investigation: Our team will conduct a comprehensive investigation, gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Liability determination: We'll identify all potentially liable parties, which is crucial in rideshare accidents due to their complex nature.
- Insurance negotiations: We'll handle communications with insurance companies, protecting your rights and pursuing fair compensation.
- Legal representation: If necessary, we'll represent you in court, presenting a strong case on your behalf.
- Damage calculation: We'll accurately calculate all damages, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Expert consultation: When needed, we'll work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and economic experts to strengthen your case.
- Client advocacy: We'll be your dedicated advocate throughout the process, keeping you informed and fighting for your best interests.
- Settlement negotiation: We'll skillfully negotiate for a fair settlement, and if one isn't offered, we're prepared to take your case to trial.
By leveraging our experience with rideshare accident cases and our commitment to client success, we aim to secure the best possible outcome for your case while allowing you to focus on recovery.
Rideshare Accident Lawyer FAQs
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a rideshare accident in Long Island?
In New York, you generally have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, time limitations can be much shorter or lawsuits may require compliance with a condition precedent. We start the process as soon as possible to preserve evidence and ensure compliance with insurance claim deadlines.
Can I still receive compensation if I wasn't wearing a seatbelt during the rideshare accident?
Yes, you can still seek compensation, but your damages may be reduced under New York's comparative negligence laws. The court will determine to what extent your injuries were caused by not wearing a seatbelt.
What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident in Long Island?
Ensure your safety first, then call 911 to report the accident. Document the scene with photos, gather contact information from witnesses, and seek medical attention even if you feel fine.
How are rideshare accidents different from regular car accidents in terms of legal proceedings?
Rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurance policies and complex liability issues. Additionally, rideshare companies may attempt to distance themselves from liability by classifying drivers as independent contractors, making these cases more challenging to navigate without experienced legal representation.
Contact an Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney After Your Long Island Crash Today
Dealing with a rideshare accident claim can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. At William Mattar Law Offices, we're committed to providing Long Island Uber and Lyft accident victims with legal representation they can trust. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of rideshare accident cases and is dedicated to fighting for your rights and maximizing your compensation.
Contact William Mattar Law Offices today at (516) 444-4444 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us use our knowledge and resources to help you focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Remember, we're here to help you get the compensation you need and the justice you deserve.