Rideshare Accident Attorneys in Binghamton, NY 

Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are a growing part of daily life for many Binghamton, NY residents who like the convenience and affordability of parking and do not have to worry about parking when navigating the city's congested streets. So, what happens when something goes wrong with a rideshare? Rideshare accidents are much more complicated than a typical common fender bender. Whether one is a passerby, another driver, or even a pedestrian, these accidents are sure to leave those involved tense and confused about their rights. 

If you have been a victim of rideshare accidents in Binghamton, the rideshare car accident attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP are here to assist you. We are experienced rideshare accident lawyers who specialize in the complexities of a rideshare accident claim. 

5 Causes of Rideshare Crashes in Binghamton 

Roads in Binghamton, such as Front Street or Vestal Parkway, can be hazardous for ride-sharing drivers. With distracted driving, traffic congestion, and many other reasons, accidents may happen. Some of the most common causes are as follows: 

• Driver distraction: Most ride-sharing drivers use apps to navigate, which might distract them from the road. It could be in accepting rides, changing the GPS, or responding to requests from passengers. 
• Fatigue: Many ride-sharing drivers are at an increased risk of dozing off behind the wheel as a result of the long hours they work. This is highly risky for people who take overtime or work during late hours. 
• Racing or reckless driving: They tend to race because they can take more trips in less time, or respond to urgent calls; they forget all about speed limits and conditions. 
• Weather conditions: It snows so much in Binghamton and thus, on its roads; thus, one has slippery roads leading to skidding and loss of control. 
• Failure to yield: Young drivers sometimes don't understand local traffic regulations; for instance, yielding at an intersection; the consequences may be accidents. 

Who's to Blame in a Binghamton Rideshare Car Accident? 

Determining who is liable for a rideshare accident can be very confusing. Responsibility may lie on the rideshare driver, the company, or another party. Here's a breakdown: 

• The rideshare driver: If the driver was negligent, such as speeding or texting while driving, he may be liable for the accident. 
• The rideshare company: Companies such as Uber or Lyft could be liable if the driver was logged into the app and had a passenger in the vehicle. Companies such as these have insurance policies that apply under certain circumstances. 
• Other drivers or third parties: If another driver's actions caused the accident, they may be partially liable. For example, a driver running a red light and hitting a rideshare vehicle would likely be liable. An insurance company would weigh this heavily when determining who was at fault. 

A rideshare accident attorney will review police reports, eyewitness accounts, and app activity to determine liability. 

Your Essential Action Plan After a Rideshare Accident in Binghamton 

Being involved in an accident is overwhelming but knowing what to do makes a difference. In case of a rideshare crash, do the following: 

1. Check for injuries: Your health and safety come first. Evaluate your condition and that of the people involved. If anyone is severely injured, call for emergency medical help immediately. 
2. Call 911: Inform the authorities of the accident and ask for a policeman to arrive to take photos. A police report will help out with an insurance claim. Make sure you fill out an MV-104 form before the deadline. 
3. Get information: Obtain the following details: name, license number, rideshare application screenshots, and insurance cards. Do not forget to include all the car's make and models. 
4. Record the scene: Take the best accident scene photos you can of any damage to the vehicles, conditions of the roads, and injury to people involved. Do not miss signs from the traffic or skid marks, which may be part of factors causing the collision and the existing weather conditions. 
5. Medical treatment: Any person hurt needs to be attended to by a medical professional because many injuries, including disc herniations and disc bulges, often don’t make an appearance right away in terms of symptoms. 
6. Contact an attorney: Legal advice ensures your rights are protected and helps navigate the complexities of filing a claim. You’ll want to make sure you fill out all necessary paperwork to obtain New York No-Fault benefits, and an attorney can help guide you through that process. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Rideshare Accident Claim in Binghamton 

Filing a claim after a rideshare accident involves several steps. Here's how to start: 

1. Report the accident: Notify the rideshare company through their app. Both Uber and Lyft have processes for reporting crashes, typically requiring you to provide details about the incident. 
2. Contact your insurance: Inform your insurer about the accident. Provide them with the rideshare driver’s insurance details and any supporting evidence you’ve gathered. 
3. File a claim with the rideshare company’s insurer: Rideshare companies provide insurance coverage in certain situations. Your rideshare accident lawyer can help determine which policy applies, depending on the driver’s app status at the time of the accident. 
4. Follow every correspondence: Document correspondence with insurers, the rideshare company, and any parties involved in the claim. You’ll want to be meticulous in detail, as insurance companies love to play tricks to minimize any payments to you. 

The claims process may be lengthy since a number of parties are usually involved. 

The Hidden Details of Insurance Coverage for Rideshare Accidents 

Insurance for ridesharing accidents can be pretty complex. Depending on the driver's status at the time of the accident: 

• App off: The driver's personal coverage is in play, and the rideshare company's will not. 
• App on, no rider: Limited coverage from the rideshare company may apply. For instance, Uber and Lyft usually provide contingent liability coverage during this time, which helps to cover damages if the driver's personal insurance is not enough. 
• App on, Passenger in vehicle: the Rideshare company policy typically covers full accidents during this time. This often includes $1 million liability coverage along with uninsured motorist protection, meaning that the company will make good on expenses if the at-fault party has insufficient insurance. 

These distinctions show just how much insight one needs to know which policy might apply, so it's not always easy. That's why having legal guidance matters. 

Why Hiring a Lawyer After a Binghamton Rideshare Accident is a Game-Changer 

Rideshare accidents aren’t straightforward. The involvement of app-based services, multiple insurance policies, and corporate liability can overwhelm anyone. That’s where Horn Wright, LLP, steps in for you. 

Our rideshare accident attorneys handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. With our expertise, you’ll have the support needed to secure the compensation you deserve. By taking the legal weight off your shoulders, we’ll help you rebuild after the accident and ensure you get what’s fair.