New York City Rideshare Accident Lawyer

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When you hop into an Uber or Lyft in New York City, you expect to get where you’re going safely. Whether it’s a quick trip to the buzzing streets of Times Square, a scenic ride over the Brooklyn Bridge, or heading down the busy lanes of Fifth Avenue, rideshare services are a convenient way to travel. But a rideshare accident can turn your day upside-down in a moment, leaving you with injuries, questions, and concerns about what comes next.

If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare crash, you’re not alone. At William Mattar Law Offices, we understand how overwhelming this situation can feel. That's why we’re here to help. Our legal team focuses on cases involving motor vehicle accidents—including those involving rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. If you need a  rideshare accident lawyer after a crash in New York City, we’re prepared to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact William Mattar Law Offices today to get started on your path to recovery.

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Why Choose William Mattar Law Offices for Your NYC Rideshare Accident Claim?

At William Mattar Law Offices, we understand the unique challenges of rideshare accident claims. With years of experience helping accident victims across New York, we've developed the knowledge and resources necessary to handle complex Uber and Lyft accident claims.

Here’s why so many New Yorkers trust us with their cases after a rideshare crash:

  • Years of Legal Experience. Accidents involving Uber and Lyft can be complicated because they involve multiple parties, including the rideshare company, the driver’s insurance, and even your own insurance provider. We know how to cut through the red tape and ensure you’re treated fairly.
  • Track Record of Success. Our team has already helped clients throughout New York State recover significant financial settlements and awards. That speaks to our dedication and ability to pursue favorable results.
  • Compassionate Advocacy. Suffering an injury in a crash is one of the most difficult experiences a person can face. We approach every case with empathy, keeping you informed and supported every step of the way.
  • New York Focus. We’re not just any law firm—we’re a law firm that deeply understands New York roads, New York laws, and the unique challenges faced by New Yorkers after an accident.

When you choose William Mattar, you’re choosing a law firm that genuinely cares about your future. Our goal? To get the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages or income, pain and suffering, and more—all while helping you restore your peace of mind.

Who May Be Eligible to Make a Rideshare Accident Claim?

If you were involved in a rideshare accident in New York City, you may be wondering who has the right to file a claim. Rideshare accidents can impact many people, including passengers, drivers, and pedestrians. Here's who may be eligible to seek compensation after a crash involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle.

  • Rideshare Passengers: If you were injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you might be entitled to compensation. Whether the accident was caused by your rideshare driver, another motorist, or even a bicycle courier in bustling traffic, claims can be pursued to help cover your injuries and other damages.
  • Other Drivers and Pedestrians: If a rideshare driver caused your injuries—whether you were crossing the street near the Flatiron Building or driving through Midtown Manhattan—you may also have the right to seek compensation under New York's insurance laws.
  • Rideshare Drivers: Even drivers operating for Uber or Lyft may be eligible to file a claim if another motorist caused the accident. Furthermore, drivers hurt in collisions while on the job may need guidance navigating questions of liability and insurance.

Everyone's situation is unique, which is why it’s so important to seek the advice of a knowledgeable NYC rideshare accident lawyer. We’ll listen to your story and help determine the best path forward.

How Does Insurance Work After a New York City Uber or Lyft Accident?

Dealing with the insurance system after a rideshare accident may seem overwhelming. Who is responsible for paying your medical bills? Should you contact your driver’s personal insurance or the rideshare company itself? These are common questions, but the answers depend largely on the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the accident.

Here’s a closer look at how the insurance coverage changes depending on whether the driver was offline, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger.

Offline or the App is Off

If an Uber or Lyft driver is not logged into the rideshare app at the time of the accident, they are considered "offline." This means they’re essentially driving as a regular motorist, not as a rideshare operator.

In New York, which is a no-fault state, the injured party's own personal injury protection (PIP) insurance typically covers their medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault in the accident. This means that if you are injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver who is offline or has the app off, your own PIP insurance would generally be the first to cover your injuries. The driver's personal auto insurance would come into play primarily for property damage or if the injuries are severe enough to exceed the no-fault threshold, allowing for a liability claim.

Available or Waiting for a Ride Request

When a rideshare driver is online and waiting for a passenger to request a ride, they are considered "available." During this time, Uber and Lyft provide contingent insurance coverage. This means the rideshare company’s insurance only kicks in when the driver’s personal policy doesn’t cover the damages.

For example, Uber offers the following coverage when their driver is marked as “available” in New York City:

  • Third-party liability of up to $75,000 for bodily injury per person
  • Up to $25,000 for property damage per accident

These limits may help cover expenses if you’re injured by an active rideshare driver, but they often won’t be enough to provide full compensation in serious accidents. 

En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or During a Ride

When a rideshare driver has accepted a ride request or is actively transporting a passenger, more robust insurance coverage applies. Both Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability insurance while drivers are en route to pick up or drop off passengers. Additional coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, may also be available.

This increased coverage provides peace of mind for injured passengers, but filing a claim is not always straightforward. Multiple parties—including the driver’s personal insurance, the rideshare company, and even the other motorist’s insurance—may be involved. That’s why having a knowledgeable legal team like William Mattar in your corner is so important.

Should I Accept the First Offer from the Insurance Company?

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in New York City, you might get a call from the insurance company sooner than you expect. They may offer you a settlement for your injuries and damages. But should you take it? The short answer is no. Chances are that first offer isn’t in your best interest.

Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly—and for as little money as possible. Their goal is to protect their bottom line, not to provide you with fair compensation. By accepting their first offer, you might be signing away your right to pursue what you’re truly owed.

Here are some common tactics insurance companies use to shortchange accident victims:

  • Downplaying your injuries. They might argue that your injuries aren’t “that serious,” even if you’re in pain or require ongoing treatment.
  • Rushing the process. They’ll push you to settle quickly, knowing you might not yet understand the full scope of your damages.
  • Taking advantage of confusion. These companies know how to exploit the complexities of insurance laws to offer you less than you deserve.

Before agreeing to anything, it’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. They will review the offer, calculate the full value of your claim, and negotiate on your behalf to maximize your compensation. You only get one chance to settle your case, so make it count.

Compensation Available to NYC Rideshare Accident Victims

A rideshare accident can disrupt every part of your life. From mounting medical bills to lost income, the aftermath of a crash can feel overwhelming. If you’ve been injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft in New York City, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including but not limited to:

  • Medical Expenses. These include costs like emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any future treatment related to your injuries.
  • Lost Wages and Earning Potential. If your injuries keep you from working temporarily—or permanently—you could recover compensation for lost income or reduced ability to earn in the future.
  • Pain and Suffering. Beyond the physical injuries, many accident victims experience emotional distress, anxiety, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These intangible losses often qualify for financial compensation.
  • Property Damage. If your personal items were damaged in the crash, such as a cellphone or other belongings, their replacement costs might be recoverable.
  • Disability or Disfigurement. Serious injuries from rideshare accidents can result in long-term physical challenges or scarring. These impacts on your quality of life may also be considered in your claim.

Every case is unique, which is why it’s so important to have a skilled attorney evaluate your situation. At William Mattar, we’ll stand by your side and fight to ensure that no damage goes overlooked.

New York City Rideshare Accident Claim FAQs

Navigating a rideshare accident claim can be confusing. Below are answers to some common questions to help you understand the process.

How much does a personal injury attorney cost?

At William Mattar Law Offices, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any out-of-pocket fees to hire us. We only get paid attorney’s fees if we recover compensation for you. Your initial consultation is free, so there’s no risk in giving us a call.

What if I’m partly to blame for the accident?

New York follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means that even if you are partially at fault, you can still recover compensation. However, the amount you receive may be reduced by your percentage of fault. An experienced Lyft and Uber accident lawyer can help determine how this applies to your case.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a claim?

Under New York law, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to pursue compensation. It’s best to consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all deadlines are met.

Should I notify the rideshare company about the accident?

Yes, but proceed carefully. You’ll likely need to report the incident to the rideshare company through their app or support system. However, it’s wise to speak with an attorney first. Anything you say to the company could impact your claim.

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

An initial denial doesn’t mean your case is over. Insurance companies deny claims for various reasons, some of which can be challenged. A skilled lawyer can work to appeal the denial and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.

Contact the New York City Rideshare Accident Lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices

Following a rideshare accident, the road to recovery may feel uncertain. But you don’t have to face it alone. At William Mattar Law Offices, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

When you work with our legal team, you’ll benefit from the following services:

  • Case investigation. We’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to support your claim.
  • Dealing with insurance companies. From reviewing settlement offers to negotiating for fair compensation, we handle the legal details so you can focus on healing.
  • Representation in court. If your case goes to trial, we’ll fight tirelessly for the justice you deserve.

Our experienced New York City rideshare accident lawyers understand the challenges you’re facing and are committed to achieving the best outcome for your case.

Contact William Mattar Law Offices today at (716) 444-4444 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. There are no upfront fees, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. 

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