Rideshare Car Accident Attorneys in Buffalo, NY 

We're Here to Help You Navigate 

Getting hurt in an Uber or Lyft isn't something you ever plan for. You booked a ride to make your life easier, not to end up dealing with injuries, medical bills, and a mountain of stress. It's unfair, but you don't have to tackle it alone. 

As a passenger, you have rights. Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft carry huge insurance policies that protect people like you when accidents occur. The problem is: getting them to pay up. Insurance companies are notorious for dragging their feet and flinging excuses, hoping you will disappear. The car accident lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, is here to make sure that doesn’t happen. 

We will get your voice heard. From evidence gathering to negotiations with insurance companies, we will do all the heavy lifting so you can focus on getting better. Safety and well-being should have been a priority while you were on your ride. Now, our priority is that things get made right. 

The Importance of Prompt Medical Attention After a Rideshare Accident 

Let’s be honest—nobody likes going to the doctor. But if you’ve been in an accident, it’s absolutely necessary. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, aren’t obvious right away. Getting checked out not only protects your health but also creates a clear record of your injuries for your case. 

Buffalo's hospitals, such as ECMC or Mercy Hospital, are equipped to assist. Don't delay. The sooner you seek treatment, the greater your chances of recovery—and of building a strong case. 

What Compensation Can You Recover from a Rideshare Accident Claim? 

Financial stress can accumulate quickly after an accident. You probably are wondering, "What can I actually recover?" Here is what a claim may cover: 

• Medical bills: From ER visits to physical therapy, we’ll make sure those expenses don’t come out of your pocket. Your New York No-Fault benefits will provide coverage for medical bills after a crash. 
• Lost wages: If you’ve missed work—or can’t return—you shouldn’t have to suffer financially. You'll want to know how to get your lost wages paid after a crash. 
• Pain and suffering: Accidents aren’t just about the physical injuries. Emotional and mental distress count, too. 
• Property damage: If your belongings were damaged in the crash, that should be covered as well. Be sure to take good accident scene photos of your vehicle damage. 

Each case is unique, but we will fight to get you the best possible results. 

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Rideshare Accident: Don't Do It Yourself 

Insurance companies are sneaky. They may come across as your friend, but their first and foremost goal is to pay out as little as possible. You don't want to get taken advantage of by an insurance company. 

• Be careful what you say: Anything that comes out of your mouth could be twisted against your claim. 
• Document everything: Track phone calls, emails, and letters. 
• Let us do the talking: We will deal with the adjusters, so you don't have to. 

Your focus should be on healing, not haggling with an insurance rep. 

The Role of Driver Background Checks in Rideshare Safety 

Uber and Lyft tout safety, but how much do you really know about the person driving you? Sure, they run background checks, but those checks aren't foolproof. Sometimes, unqualified drivers slip through the cracks. 

In Buffalo, the tricky weather conditions and hectic flow of downtown traffic make a seasoned driver important; one bad slip on the iced patch in front of Hertel Avenue or a drowsy drive through the snarled corridor of Niagara Street might spell disaster. 

If you’ve been in an accident, it’s worth asking: Was the driver truly vetted? Did Uber or Lyft overlook something? We’ll dig into those questions. It’s never too late to hire a lawyer to lead the charge. Because if a background check wasn’t thorough, that’s on the rideshare company—and we’ll hold them accountable. 

Buffalo’s High-Injury Network: What It Means for Rideshare Users 

Some streets in Buffalo are more dangerous than others. If you’ve been on Niagara Street or Bailey Avenue, you’ve probably noticed the high traffic and unpredictable conditions. These are part of Buffalo’s High-Injury Network—areas where accidents happen more often than they should. Insurance companies are well aware of these areas when determining who was likely at fault. 

You might not know you are traveling through one of these risky zones if you are a rideshare passenger. Your driver would probably not know either, especially if they are new to the area. In fact, all the people traveling along roads will face a real danger from these hot spots. 

If your accident happened in one of these areas, it’s not just bad luck. It could be a sign of negligence—whether it’s the driver, the city’s road design, or someone else entirely. Horn Wright, LLP, will investigate every angle to make sure you’re taken care of. 

How to Report a Rideshare Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide 

One becomes overwhelmed after something bad happens; however, action taken early has a big effect. Here's what you ought to do if you get in an accident 

1. Call 911 immediately. If you do that, then your claim will eventually be backed with a police report. Don’t forget to fill out an MV-104 form within the statutory deadlines. 
2. Report on the ridesharing app regarding what is happening. Even Uber and Lyft have in place features in its apps for a person to document crash reports in detail. 
3. Collect evidence at the scene. Take pictures of the vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries. Also, save screenshots of your ride details in the app. 
4. Collect information. Get the driver's name, insurance details, and license plate number. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. 
5. Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, go to the doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash, disc herniations, or internal trauma, appear later. 

These steps don’t just protect your health—they protect your rights. And if you’re not sure what to do next, we’re here to guide you. 

Understanding Uber and Lyft’s Insurance Coverage in New York 

If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, you’ve probably wondered, "Who’s paying for this?" The answer depends on what the driver was doing when the accident happened. Here’s how it breaks down: 

• Driver off-duty: The rideshare company is not responsible. Personal insurance of the driver covers the damages. 
• Driver idle waiting for a ride: There is minimal coverage up to $50,000 for injuries and $25,000 for property damage. 
• Driver traveling to a pickup or actively moving a passenger: Uber and Lyft have liability coverage at $1 million and further coverage in case of uninsured or underinsured motorists. 

It's a lot to sort through, but don't worry. We'll figure out which policy applies and make sure the right party pays. You shouldn't be left holding the bill for someone else's mistake. 

Legal Deadlines: How Long Do You Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim? 

Time is of the essence after a rideshare accident. In New York, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. But don't wait too long—some situations have shorter deadlines. 

If a government vehicle or entity is involved, you could have at least 90 days to file a notice of claim. 

Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the accident. 

The sooner you act, the better. The evidence like photographs, medical reports, and testimony of witnesses would fade with time. Contact us as soon as possible so that we can get started on preparing your case. 

As one of Buffalo’s top law firms, we understand how daunting rideshare accidents can be. You have suffered enough. Allow us to ease the burden and fight for what you deserve. 

Choosing the Right Buffalo Lawyer for Your Rideshare Accident Case 

When dealing with the aftermath of a rideshare accident, you need clear answers. You want someone on your side who understands what it takes. Our Buffalo personal injury lawyers have the experience and dedication to treat your case with care and compassion. We'll fight for your rights and make sure you are treated fairly. Let us take this stress off your shoulders. Call Horn Wright, LLP, today for your free consultation.