Albany Rideshare Accident Attorneys Fighting For Injured Passengers
You face a uniquely complicated situation when your Uber or Lyft ride ends in a crash. Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare collisions involve multiple insurance policies, corporate interests and complex liability questions. You might deal with mounting medical bills, lost wages and pain. The physical and financial stress can quickly become overwhelming when you’re simply trying to recover.
At Smalline and Harri, we help injured rideshare passengers throughout Albany and the Capital Region. We understand the challenges you face after an Uber accident or a Lyft collision. Our rideshare accident attorneys provide compassionate support while aggressively pursuing the compensation you deserve. Since 1994, we’ve handled the complex legal process so car accident victims can focus on healing.
Rideshare Accident Statistics In New York
The Empire State has seen exponential growth in rideshare services, with Uber, Lyft and smaller companies like Via operating throughout Albany and surrounding areas. However, this convenience comes with increased accident risks as more drivers join these platforms.
Recent data reveals concerning trends about rideshare safety in New York:
- Rideshare vehicles are involved in approximately 1,000 crashes annually across New York State
- Albany County reports an average of 45 rideshare-related accidents each year
- Nearly 40% of rideshare accidents result in passenger injuries
- Rideshare drivers average 2.4 times more miles annually than typical drivers, increasing accident exposure
- Distracted driving from app use contributes to roughly 30% of rideshare collisions
- Evening hours from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. see the highest concentration of rideshare accidents
A skilled Lyft and Uber accident lawyer’s assistance in these cases is crucial, as the growing presence of rideshare services demands knowledgeable legal guidance to protect passenger rights.
Common Causes Of Rideshare Accidents
These potentially severe collisions happen for many reasons, often combining typical traffic risks with factors unique to the industry. Understanding these causes helps us build stronger cases. Rideshare drivers frequently become involved in accidents due to:
- Distraction from monitoring the rideshare app while driving
- Fatigue from working long hours across multiple platforms
- Unfamiliarity with areas when picking up passengers
- Pressure to complete rides quickly to maximize earnings
- Improper vehicle maintenance
- Insufficient driver training or screening
- Dangerous pickup or drop-off locations
- Other drivers who fail to yield or recognize rideshare vehicles
These factors create dangerous conditions for passengers, pedestrians and other motorists. Our Uber and Lyft crash attorneys investigate thoroughly to identify all contributing factors in your accident.
Steps To Take After A Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in an Uber or Lyft crash, your actions immediately afterward can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Follow these essential steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance
- Document the scene with photos of all vehicles, license plates and visible injuries
- Screenshot your rideshare app showing trip details and driver information
- Collect contact information from all drivers, passengers and witnesses
- Request a copy of the police report or the report number
- Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor initially
- Report the accident through the rideshare app’s safety incident feature
- Avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements to insurance companies
- Keep all medical records, receipts and documentation of expenses
- Contact a rideshare accident attorney before accepting any settlement offers
Taking these steps creates a strong foundation for your rideshare injury claims. Many passengers make the mistake of delaying medical treatment or failing to document crucial evidence, which can significantly reduce their Uber or Lyft accident settlements in Albany.
Determining Compensation For Rideshare Passenger Injuries
Assessing fault in rideshare accidents involves multiple parties and insurance policies. Unlike typical car accidents, rideshare cases may involve the driver’s personal insurance, the rideshare company’s insurance coverage and potentially other third parties.
New York’s no-fault insurance system adds another layer of complexity. While you can initially seek coverage through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, serious injuries often require claims against additional policies. We help you understand which policies apply to your situation.
When injured in a rideshare accident, you may recover Lyft or Uber accident compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospitalization and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering beyond what no-fault covers
- Property damage to personal belongings
- Transportation costs for medical appointments
- Home modification expenses for serious injuries
- Long-term care needs for permanent disabilities
Insurance companies representing rideshare companies often try to minimize your claim or shift the blame. Our rideshare accident attorneys counter these tactics with thorough evidence and aggressive advocacy to protect your rights to fair compensation for Uber or Lyft accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about these often complicated accidents:
Who Is Liable In An Uber Or Lyft Accident Settlement In Albany?
Liability depends on several factors, including the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the accident. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger, both Uber and Lyft provide $1.25 million in liability coverage that may apply. If another driver caused the crash, their insurance would be primarily responsible.
If an Uber driver accident happens while they are waiting for a request, different coverage limits apply to determine Uber accident liability in New York. In some cases, multiple parties share fault, including the rideshare company, the driver, other motorists or even government entities. Our rideshare accident fault analysis determines all potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery.
Can I Sue Uber Directly After Being Involved In An Accident In New York?
Generally, rideshare companies classify drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, making direct lawsuits against Uber or Lyft challenging. However, you can make claims against their insurance policies, which provide substantial coverage.
You might have grounds for a Lyft collision lawsuit against the company itself in certain circumstances. For example, a lawsuit against the company over Lyft safety regulations may be appropriate if it negligently hired a driver with a history of accidents or failed to enforce safety protocols.
During an Uber or Lyft accident investigation, we evaluate all potential avenues for recovery, including claims against the rideshare company’s insurance and, when appropriate, direct action against the company.
How Long Do I Have To File A Claim After A Rideshare Accident In New York?
You generally have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, rideshare accident reporting procedures require much quicker action. You should report the accident to the rideshare company immediately through their app and contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Evidence like rideshare accident witness statements and electronic records may disappear quickly. Additionally, no-fault insurance claims must be filed within 30 days. Missing these deadlines can severely limit your ability to recover compensation.
Contact Us For A Free Consultation
If you’ve been hurt as a rideshare passenger, driver or third party, our experienced team can guide you through the complex legal process and fight for fair compensation.
Call Smalline and Harri today at 518-704-4604 or complete our online form to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with an Albany rideshare accident lawyer.