In densely populated areas like Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, Uber is a common way to get around because it is dependable, economical, and, generally, safe. However, as with anything, accidents can happen. If you are someone who was injured as a passenger in an Uber vehicle or by an Uber vehicle as a driver, you need a New York City & Westchester County Uber accident lawyer on your side. You can seek financial compensation following an Uber accident in NYC through an insurance claim or a lawsuit, depending on the severity of your injuries. Reach out to The Bàez Legal Group to learn more about Uber accidents, who is responsible when one happens, and how our New York City & Westchester County Uber accident lawyer can assist you through every step of the legal process ahead.
Uber Accidents in NYC: What You Must Know
Uber accidents in New York City and Westchester County are governed by a combination of rideshare insurance policies and New York’s no-fault accident laws. This can make the claims process much more complex than standard collisions, as not only are there strict legal thresholds, but also multiple insurance policies are involved.
Important Facts About NYC Uber Accidents
- New York adheres to a no-fault insurance system, meaning your insurance will generally pay the initial damages regardless of fault
- You must meet the “serious injury” threshold to seek compensation for pain and suffering
- Multiple insurance policies can apply depending on the driver’s app status at the time of the collision
- Uber provides up to $1 million in coverage for certain ride phases
- Claims are generally incredibly complex and involve multiple parties
What Is Uber’s Liability Coverage?
The ridesharing services Uber and Lyft share a liability coverage system. Depending on the events of an accident, Uber may supply injured parties with a specific amount of financial compensation.
Uber/Lyft Insurance Coverage Periods Explained
- Period 0 (App Off)
- The driver isn’t logged into the app yet, and causes an accident
- Uber provides no coverage
- The claim must be filed through the driver’s personal insurance
- Period 1 (App On, No Accepted Ride)
- Coverage up to:
- $50,000 per person (for injuries)
- $100,000 per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
- Coverage up to:
- Period 2 (Ride Accepted, En Route to Pick Up)
- Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage for accidents that occur during this period
- Period 3 (Passenger in Vehicle)
- Up to $1 million in liability coverage
- Includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Limited coverage for vehicle damage
How Does New York’s No-Fault Insurance System Impact Your Claim?
Whether you are in an Uber on your way to LaGuarida or heading home from a fun night out in SoHo with friends, understanding what to expect if you are in a collision while utilizing rideshare services is critical. In general, New York utilizes a no-fault insurance system, meaning you must file a claim against your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. This will generally pay for your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages, regardless of who is responsible for the collision.
What No-Fault Insurance Covers
- Medical expenses
- Hospital bills
- A percentage of lost wages if you are unable to work
- Other reasonable and necessary expenses
When You Can File a Lawsuit
In general, under a no-fault insurance system, you are generally only able to file a lawsuit against the negligent party if you meet the serious injury threshold. Generally, this means you have suffered:
- Significant disfigurement
- Broken and fractured bones
- Permanent limitation of a bodily organ or function
- Injuries that prevent normal activities for over 90 days
Who Can Face Liability After an Uber Accident?
Because multiple parties may be involved, determining liability in an Uber accident is often more complex than a standard collision. Liability may also depend on local road conditions, traffic patterns, and municipal responsibilities across New York City and Westchester County.
Potentially Liable Parties
- The Uber or Lyft driver, if they are negligent
- Another driver involved in the accident
- Uber or Lyft’s commercial insurer
- Government entities, if unsafe roads are responsible
- Vehicle manufacturers, if defective parts are to blame
Can You Sue Uber or Lyft Directly
- Uber and Lyft generally classify drivers as independent contractors
- This limits Uber’s liability in many cases
- However, claims can arise if:
- Uber was negligent in hiring or screening
- The app or policy is inherently unsafe
- Most claims rely on insurance coverage rather than direct claims against the platform
How Can I Establish Liability?
To have a successful personal injury claim, you will have to establish liability, suggesting you must prove that you were injured as a direct result of another person’s negligence.
Evidence That Strengthens Your Claim
Evidence that may strengthen your claim and prove negligence includes:
- Photos and videos from the accident scene
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Medical records
- Expert testimony when possible
Contact an Experienced New York City Personal Injury Attorney
Keep in mind that winning a personal injury claim is not always easy. However, with the skilled legal assistance of the Bàez Legal Group, you drastically boost your likelihood of retrieving the compensation you deserve following an Uber or Lyft accident in New York City or Westchester County. Contact our firm today to get started.
