New York Injury Lawyers Discuss the Complexities of Ride Sharing Accidents

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have changed transportation by providing a reasonably priced substitute for taxis. Nevertheless, as these services have become more popular, there have been more ride-sharing accidents in New York. In fact, research has shown that approximately 97 fatal crashes between 2017 and 2018 involved Uber vehicles.

When in a ride-sharing service you expect your driver to get you to your destination safely. However, if you are in a car accident involving a ride-share there are certain steps to take to help improve your personal injury case:

1. Gather evidence of the accident. This includes taking photographs and videos of the ride-share as well as the other vehicle that was involved in the accident in order to help determine liability. It is also important that you gather all relevant information such as driver’s licenses, and insurance information.

2. Talk to witnesses and gather contact information. When pursuing a personal injury matter, it is beneficial to have witness statements to help strengthen your case. This can also help determine liability and increase the chances of financial recovery.

3. Report the accident and call the police if necessary. Obtaining a report can help document date, time, location, and other details that are vital to your claim.

4. Seeking medical assistance after the accident. After an accident, it is beneficial to receive an evaluation to determine any injuries that may not have been apparent after the accident.

After an accident, victims often collect out-of-pocket expenses. Special damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage can be incurred. However, accident victims in ride-sharing incidents could seek compensation for these damages. Moreover, other losses accident victims can also obtain include non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, and more. These non-economic damages are also damages that a victim can seek compensation.

Injuries consistent with a car accident involving a ride-share service include whiplash and other soft-tissue injuries such as damage to tendons, muscles, and ligaments due to the forceful movements of the vehicles during the accident. Common injuries also include head and brain injuries including concussions, contusions, and more seriously traumatic brain injuries. Broken glass and objects being moved around in the car during the crash can also cause cuts, bruises and abrasions on the passenger’s face and body. Involvement in a car accident may also cause emotional distress responses such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In a traditional taxi suit, the firm would be responsible for any accidents caused by the drivers. However, in a ride-sharing incident, liability may be trickier. Instead of being an employee, the driver may be an independent contractor, making a ride-sharing company immune from liability.

In most situations, the ride-sharing vehicle’s driver would be held accountable for the collision.

However, if the driver was employed by the ride-sharing company at the time of the accident, the business may be liable for the losses. Additionally, ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft maintain liability insurance to protect both the drivers and the passengers in case of an accident. Furthermore, accidents that occur during the driver’s employment may not be covered by their personal insurance policy. In this instance, the ride-sharing companies’ insurance policy would be the primary coverage.

Contact an experienced Long Island ride-share accident attorney

Ride-sharing accidents are a complicated subject in New York, and determining who is at fault can be difficult. In addition to the driver of the ride-sharing car, ride-sharing businesses may also be held liable in certain situations. It is crucial to obtain legal counsel from a qualified personal injury lawyer if you are hurt while using a ride-sharing service to ensure that your rights are upheld and that you get the settlement you are due. Contact the Licatesi Law Group today at (517) 227-2662 for a free consultation.