Rideshare services have been operating in New York City since 2011. Uber was the first major rideshare company to launch in the city, beginning its operations in May 2011. Lyft followed a few years later, launching in July 2014. Since then, rideshare services have increased in popularity, becoming a significant part of the city’s transportation network. These services have also sparked regulatory changes and debates as they have integrated into the existing taxi and transportation systems in New York City.
Before Uber and Lyft ridesharing became popular terms and services, subsequently resulting in many niche competitors, including Blacklane and other private vehicle services, our Staten Island personal injury attorneys were already representing injury victims and families who had lost their loved ones in similar cases, including taxi, limousine, and corporate car crashes.
With rideshare accidents on the rise, one thing that makes these crashes challenging for injured parties is that multiple parties can be injured, including passengers, drivers (both rideshare and other vehicles), pedestrians, and even cyclists.
Each of these parties may face complex legal challenges when seeking compensation, as liability can be difficult to determine, especially with the involvement of rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft. These companies often have their insurance policies, which may have different coverage limits and conditions depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Our Richmond County rideshare accident attorneys at David Resnick & Associates, P.C. are essential in navigating these complexities, ensuring that the injured party’s rights are protected and maximizing the compensation they can receive for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
We can effectively deal with the rideshare company, insurers, and other liable parties, alleviating the burden on the injured person and helping them achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact our skilled Staten Island rideshare accident and injury attorneys today to discuss your case and how the incident has impacted your life. Our law firm represents accident victims throughout New York City, including Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx, and only works on a contingency basis. You do not pay our legal fees if we do not win your case. That’s a promise.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Rideshare Accidents, Injuries, and Fatalities on Staten Island, New York?
Depending on the circumstances of a rideshare accident, injuries, and fatalities on Staten Island, New York, multiple parties can be liable.
Potentially liable parties include:
- Rideshare Driver: If the rideshare driver was negligent, such as by speeding, distracted driving, or violating traffic laws, they could be held liable for the accident and any resulting injuries or fatalities.
- Other Drivers: If another driver on the road caused the accident, they could be held responsible for the damages. This might involve another motorist who was negligent or reckless.
- Rideshare Company (Uber, Lyft, and others): The rideshare company could be held liable under certain conditions, particularly if the driver was on the app and actively transporting passengers or en route to pick up a passenger. These companies typically have insurance policies that cover accidents involving their drivers during these times.
- Vehicle Manufacturer: If a defect in one of the vehicles involved in the accident contributed to the crash, the vehicle’s manufacturer could be held liable under product liability laws.
- Pedestrians or Cyclists: In some cases, pedestrians or cyclists may share liability if their actions contributed to the accident, such as by jaywalking or cycling inappropriately.
Determining liability in rideshare accidents can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties and the specific insurance policies of rideshare companies. Consulting with our experienced personal injury attorneys is crucial to understanding the legal landscape and ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable. Contact our Staten Island rideshare accident lawyers today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your claim.
When is the Rideshare Company Liable for My Damages After a Staten Island Accident With Injuries?
A rideshare company, such as Uber or Lyft, may be liable for your damages after an accident with injuries under specific circumstances, mainly depending on the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident.
Here are the critical scenarios in which the rideshare company might be liable:
- Driver Was “Off the App”: If the rideshare driver was not logged into the app at the time of the accident, the rideshare company is generally not liable. In this case, the driver’s auto insurance would be responsible for covering any damages.
- Driver Was “On the App” and Waiting for a Ride Request: If the rideshare driver was logged into the app and available to accept rides but was not actively transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s contingent liability coverage may apply. This coverage is secondary to the driver’s personal insurance, which kicks in if the policy does not fully cover the damages.
- Driver Was “On the App” and Transporting a Passenger: If the rideshare driver was actively transporting or en route to pick up a passenger when the accident occurred, the rideshare company’s insurance policy typically covers damages. This coverage includes liability for injuries to passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- Negligence in Hiring: In some cases, the rideshare company could be liable if it is found that the company was negligent in hiring or retaining the driver, such as failing to conduct proper background checks or ignoring safety violations.
Determining when a rideshare company is liable can be complex, and the specific details of your case, such as the driver’s status and the nature of the accident, will be crucial. Consulting with our skilled rideshare accident and injury attorneys in Staten Island can help clarify the situation and ensure that you pursue the appropriate avenues for compensation.
Contact Our Skilled Staten Island Rideshare Accident Attorneys at David Resnick & Associates, P.C. To Help Build Your Case for Success
The legal team at David Resnick & Associates, P.C., understands the impact an Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare accident can have on you and your family. We work hard to obtain the maximum damages you’re entitled to. We serve accident victims in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, the Bronx, and New York City.
If you have questions about your rideshare accident and injuries, contact the New York law firm of David Resnick & Associates, P.C., online or call us at 212-279-2000 today for a free consultation about your case.
There is never a charge to speak with our skilled Staten Island rideshare accident attorneys. If your case qualifies to move forward, we will handle every aspect from start to finish without charging any upfront or out-of-pocket fees. You will pay nothing for our elite personal injury attorney services unless we win your case. That is a promise.