Uber Accident Lawyer in New York City

As Uber accident lawyers in New York City, we can guide you in claiming compensation when you or a loved one has been involved in an Uber accident in New York City. An Uber accident lawyer like us is well-versed in the complexities of Uber accident cases and can help you navigate the legal process to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Complexities of Uber Accident Liability

Determining who is responsible for compensating victims in an Uber accident in New York can be complex. In some cases, Uber's insurance policy may cover the damages, while in others, the driver's personal insurance or a third party may be liable. Factors such as the driver's status at the time of the accident and the specific circumstances of the incident can impact liability determination.

For instance, if the Uber driver was actively transporting a passenger when the accident occurred, Uber's $1.25 million liability coverage would likely apply. This coverage would kick in to compensate the victim for their injuries and losses, up to the policy limit. However, if the driver was merely logged into the app and waiting for a ride request at the time of the accident, Uber's insurance coverage would be more limited, providing a lower level of liability protection. In this scenario, the driver's personal auto insurance policy might need to be tapped to cover the damages.

Furthermore, the specific circumstances of the accident can also influence who is held liable. If the Uber driver was at fault for the crash, perhaps due to distracted driving or failing to obey traffic laws, Uber's insurance policy would typically cover the victim's damages. On the other hand, if a third party, such as another motorist, caused the accident, their insurance company might be primarily responsible for compensating the victim. In some cases, multiple parties may share liability, requiring a thorough investigation to determine the appropriate allocation of fault and financial responsibility.

The complexity of Uber accident liability highlights the importance of working with an experienced Uber accident lawyer like us. We can navigate the intricate web of insurance policies, investigate the accident to identify all potentially liable parties, and build a strong case to pursue the maximum compensation available for the victim's injuries and losses. We can also handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring that the victim's rights are protected throughout the process.

Uber's insurance requirements in New York

Uber maintains insurance policies to cover accidents involving their drivers in New York. The company provides $1.25 million in liability coverage per accident when a driver has accepted a ride request or is carrying a passenger. This coverage applies from the moment a driver accepts a ride request until the completion of the trip. However, when the driver is logged into the app but not actively engaged in a ride, Uber's insurance coverage is more limited, providing $75,000 per person for bodily injury, $150,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. Uber's insurance policy also includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

In some Uber accidents, third parties may be wholly or partially responsible for the incident. For example, if another vehicle collides with an Uber car due to negligent driving, the at-fault driver's insurance may be liable for the damages. In cases involving defective vehicle parts or hazardous road conditions, manufacturers or government entities might also share liability. An experienced Uber accident lawyer can help identify all potentially liable parties and pursue compensation from each source, maximizing the victim's potential recovery.

Common Causes of NYC Uber Accidents

Uber accidents in New York can occur due to a variety of factors, ranging from driver error and negligence to external conditions beyond the driver's control.

Driver-related factors

Several driver-related factors can contribute to Uber accidents in New York City. Distracted driving is a common issue, with drivers focusing on their smartphones, GPS devices, or other distractions instead of the road. Fatigue can also play a role, as some Uber drivers work long hours or drive late at night, increasing the risk of drowsy driving accidents. Speeding, reckless driving, and failure to obey traffic laws are additional driver-related factors that can lead to crashes. Inadequate driver training and experience, particularly in navigating NYC's busy streets, may also contribute to accidents. Lastly, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, although strictly prohibited by Uber, can cause severe accidents if a driver engages in such behavior.

Vehicle and road defects

In addition to driver-related factors, vehicle and road defects can also contribute to Uber accidents in New York City. Poorly maintained vehicles, such as those with worn tires, malfunctioning brakes, or broken headlights, can increase the risk of crashes. Defective vehicle parts, like faulty accelerators or steering components, may also lead to accidents. New York City's roads themselves can be a factor, with potholes, uneven pavement, or inadequate signage and lighting creating hazardous conditions for drivers. Construction zones and poorly designed intersections may also contribute to accidents. In some cases, a combination of driver error and vehicle or road defects can result in serious crashes, making it crucial for an experienced Uber accident lawyer to thoroughly investigate the cause of the incident.

Potential Injuries from Uber Accidents

Uber accidents in New York City can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-altering or even fatal. Some common types of injuries include:

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Broken bones and fractures
• Lacerations and bruises
• Internal injuries
• Psychological trauma

Keeping a detailed record of all expenses related to an Uber accident is crucial for ensuring full and fair compensation. Victims should track:

• Medical bills: Keep copies of all hospital bills, doctor's visits, prescription medications, medical devices, and any other health-related expenses resulting from the accident.
• Lost wages: Document any time missed from work due to injuries, medical appointments, or recovery, as well as any reduced earning capacity caused by the accident.
• Transportation costs: Record expenses for transportation to and from medical appointments, such as taxi fares, gas receipts, or public transit costs.
• Property damage: Keep repair bills or estimates for any personal property damaged in the accident, such as cell phones, laptops, or clothing.
• Out-of-pocket expenses: Track any other accident-related expenses, such as home modifications for accessibility, child care costs, or household services required due to the victim's injuries.

By maintaining a comprehensive record of all expenses, victims can provide their Uber accident lawyer with the necessary documentation to build a strong case and pursue maximum compensation for their losses. This documentation will also be essential when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting evidence in court, ensuring that the victim's financial burden is fully accounted for in any settlement or judgment.

Statute of Limitations for Uber Accident Claims

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including those involving Uber accidents, is generally three years from the date of the incident. This means that victims have a limited window of time to take legal action and seek compensation for their injuries and losses. It is crucial for individuals involved in an Uber accident to consult with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to ensure their claim is filed within the allotted time frame.

The three-year deadline applies to most personal injury cases, such as those involving negligence on the part of the Uber driver, the company, or a third party. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the accident resulted in wrongful death, the statute of limitations for filing a claim is typically two years from the date of the victim's death. Additionally, if the accident involved a government-owned vehicle or a government entity's negligence, the time limit for filing a claim may be shorter, often requiring a notice of claim to be filed within 90 days of the incident.

Failing to file an Uber accident claim within the three-year statute of limitations can result to the victim losing their right to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. This means that even if the victim has a strong case and compelling evidence, they may be barred from recovering damages if they attempt to file a claim after the three-year window has closed.

Uber accident cases can be complex, involving multiple parties, competing insurance policies, and a range of legal issues. An experienced Uber accident lawyer like us can provide victims with the personalized attention and legal knowledge necessary to navigate these challenges effectively. We can draw upon our extensive legal knowledge to identify the most effective strategies for pursuing compensation, whether through negotiations, mediation, or litigation. We represent Uber accident victims throughout the state of New York, including all five boroughs of New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island), Long Island, and Upstate New York. Should you need assistance, you can call the Law Offices of Albert Goodwin at 212-233-1233 or send us an email at [email protected]. We are located in Midtown, Manhattan.