Westchester Rideshare Passenger Accident Lawyer
If you were injured while riding in an Uber or Lyft vehicle in Westchester County, you may be entitled to compensation. Rideshare services have become a common mode of transportation, but when an accident occurs, the legal process for injured passengers can quickly become complicated. From determining which insurance policy applies to identifying liable parties, injured clients often face a web of confusion that delays rightful claims. Having a knowledgeable Westchester rideshare passenger accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference.
Learn how Greenstein & Pittari, LLP can help you navigate the legal aftermath of a rideshare accident. We represent injured passengers throughout Westchester County and fight to recover fair compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Westchester County
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have changed the way people travel across Westchester County. These services rely on mobile apps and independent contractors who use their personal vehicles to transport passengers. While rideshare services offer convenience, they also introduce a unique set of risks and legal issues when accidents happen.
Whether you were involved in a car accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, or were injured while inside a rideshare vehicle, understanding your rights under New York law is crucial. Unlike traditional taxi companies, Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, which means they are not direct employees of the rideshare companies. This distinction affects how insurance coverage is applied and who is held responsible when a rideshare accident occurs.
Common Causes of Rideshare Passenger Injuries
Car accidents involving rideshare vehicles can happen for many reasons. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving by the rideshare driver
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Fatigue due to long hours on the road
- Failure to yield or follow traffic signals
- Dangerous road or weather conditions
- Negligence by third-party drivers
Passengers injured in Uber or Lyft accidents often suffer from bodily injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, neck and back injuries, and soft tissue damage. Some cases involve severe injuries that require long-term medical care and result in significant financial burdens. These injury types are consistent with national crash data reported by the CDC and NHTSA.
Who Is Liable in a Westchester Rideshare Accident?
Determining liability after a rideshare accident can be complex due to the multiple parties involved. Depending on how and when the accident occurred, responsible parties may include:
- The rideshare driver
- Another motorist
- The rideshare company (Uber or Lyft)
- Other at fault parties
Rideshare drivers are typically considered independent contractors. However, Uber and Lyft carry extensive insurance policies that may provide coverage for accident victims, depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.
Periods of Insurance Coverage:
- Driver not logged into the app: Only the driver’s personal insurance applies.
- Driver logged in but has not accepted a ride request: Limited liability coverage may be available through the rideshare company.
- Driver has accepted a ride or has a passenger in the vehicle: Under New York law, Uber and Lyft must carry at least $1.25 million in combined single-limit insurance coverage, which includes both bodily injury and property damage, while a ride is in progress.
Understanding which insurance policy applies is critical to successfully filing a claim.
Insurance Challenges in Uber and Lyft Accidents
Because multiple policies may be involved—including the driver’s personal insurance, the rideshare company’s insurance, and policies from other drivers involved in the accident—insurance disputes are common. Insurance companies often try to shift liability or minimize payouts.
If you were a rideshare passenger injured in a crash, the insurance company may contact you with a settlement offer. Before accepting anything, consult with a rideshare accident lawyer to protect your right to seek compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
Our attorneys can investigate all parties involved, identify negligent parties, and determine how to hold them accountable under New York law.
Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage in New York
New York State requires rideshare companies to carry commercial insurance policies to cover injured parties in Uber and Lyft accidents. When a ride is in progress, coverage applies to both the driver and the passenger, up to a specified limit.
Despite this coverage, injured passengers often struggle to get full compensation without legal help. Insurance companies may delay or deny claims, dispute the extent of injuries, or shift blame to other parties involved.
Our legal team understands how to work with—and push back against—insurance companies to ensure your rights are fully protected. If needed, we will litigate your case in court to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Types of Injuries and Damages in Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accident victims may suffer a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to catastrophic trauma. Common injuries include:
- Neck and spine injuries
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal injuries and bleeding
- Psychological trauma
In addition to physical harm, passengers often face significant financial losses. You may be able to recover compensation for:
- Lost wages from time off work
- Future earnings if your injuries limit your ability to work
- Medical expenses including surgery, rehabilitation, or long-term care
- Property damage (e.g., damaged personal belongings)
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages in cases of reckless behavior
Legal Options After a Rideshare Accident
As a rideshare passenger, you have specific legal options. You may be able to file a personal injury claim against:
- The Uber or Lyft driver
- The rideshare company’s insurance policy
- Other negligent drivers involved in the crash
You should seek medical attention immediately after the accident, even if your injuries seem minor. Then, consult an accident lawyer who can guide you through your legal options and ensure the proper steps are taken to preserve your claim.
Greenstein & Pittari, LLP has a proven track record of helping injured clients in Westchester County. We understand the complexities of Uber and Lyft accidents and are prepared to fight for your rights every step of the way.
Why Choose Our Westchester Rideshare Accident Lawyers
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we focus on personal injury cases involving motor vehicle accidents, including Uber and Lyft crashes. We tailor our approach to each case, helping clients recover compensation for their losses while providing compassionate support throughout the process.
Our team will:
- Investigate all parties involved in the accident
- Identify applicable insurance policies and coverage
- Work with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair compensation
- Represent you in court if litigation is necessary
Whether you were injured in a Lyft accident, a pedestrian hit by a rideshare service vehicle, or a passenger during an Uber accident, we are here to help.
Learn more about Westchester rideshare passenger accident lawyer. Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP at (800) 842-8462 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQ: Westchester Rideshare Passenger Accident Lawyer
What should I do after a rideshare accident in Westchester County?
Seek medical attention immediately and document everything—names of the drivers, photos of the accident scene, and any ride request confirmations. Then, consult a lawyer who handles rideshare accident cases in Westchester.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly after an accident?
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft generally classify drivers as independent contractors, which limits their direct legal liability. However, passengers injured during active rides may still have access to the company’s insurance coverage. In rare situations involving gross negligence or inadequate driver vetting, direct claims against the rideshare company may be possible.
How is fault determined in a rideshare accident involving two or more persons?
Fault is determined by investigating the actions of all parties involved, including the Uber or Lyft driver and any other motorists. Police reports, witness statements, and ride data can help identify the negligent party.
Does New York law provide special protections for rideshare passengers?
Yes. Under New York law, rideshare companies must carry substantial insurance coverage, especially when a passenger is in the vehicle. These protections can help you recover damages even if the rideshare driver was not at fault.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim after a rideshare accident in Westchester?
In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, as outlined in CPLR § 214. However, exceptions apply—for instance, claims involving municipal entities may require filing a notice of claim within 90 days, and wrongful death claims must typically be filed within two years. Prompt legal consultation is critical to preserving your rights.