Rideshare Car Accident Lawyers in Garden City, NY 

Dealing with insurance after a rideshare accident is like trying to navigate a never-ending maze. Let's be honest, trying to figure out who is responsible and what coverage applies is kind of confusing. To make things worse, in New York, the rules become all the more challenging. Uber and Lyft use tiered insurance coverage. Intimidated? It’s a good time to remind you it’s never too late to hire a lawyer. 

If the driver was logged into the app but hadn't picked up a fare, then their coverage is not as robust. However, if they had picked up a passenger or were on the way to find one, it could be much more comprehensive coverage. Sounds confusing? Don't sweat it. The attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, will walk you through all this red tape to get the information you need. 

Things You Need to Know About Uber and Lyft Injury Claims 

The issue is that rideshare accidents are nothing like your run-of-the-mill car crash case. They present a unique set of challenges, which can leave you off guard at times. First, Uber and Lyft call their drivers "independent contractors," which translates to "we're not responsible for what goes down on the road." And that's just part of it. 

These companies do carry insurance, which can cover damages in certain situations. The catch? You’ll need solid evidence to back up your claim. That means getting a copy of the police report, taking the best pictures you can at the scene, and even grabbing screenshots from the rideshare app. 

We know this is a lot when you are dealing with injuries in the first place. That's where rideshare accident lawyers step in to not let you walk alone in that fight. 

Your Rights After Being Involved in a Rideshare Accident in Garden City 

Accidents are overwhelming enough. A rideshare accident? That's just even more overwhelming. Immediately after the accident, get yourself checked by a doctor. Even if you think you’re fine, you may have whiplash or concussions that won't be apparent at first. 

Once you’re safe, it’s time to gather evidence. Take pictures of the vehicles, road conditions, and anything else that might help tell your story. And here’s something most people overlook: file a report with the police and your insurance company as soon as possible. Make sure you meet the deadline for filling out and submitting an MV-104 form. 

The Hidden Dangers Behind Rideshare Accidents in Garden City, NY 

Rideshare drivers are not superheroes. They are run-of-the-mill people with the task of handling apps, traffic, and even sleep loss. What has been causing some car crashes includes the following factors: 

• Distraction: Riders are stuck checking their cell phones for turns or ride availability. One millisecond of distraction from high-traffic areas such as Franklin Avenue can easily lead to massive catastrophes. 
• Fatigue: Ever notice how rideshare drivers work long hours? Fatigue slows their reaction time, especially on major routes like the Meadowbrook Parkway. 
• Unfamiliar streets: Garden City's winding roads or tricky intersections, like the ones near Stewart Avenue, can trip up drivers who aren't familiar with the area. 

Knowing these risks helps us build your case—and makes it easier to understand what went wrong. 

Compensation for Medical Expenses After a Rideshare Accident 

Let's talk about one of the largest expenses after an accident: medical bills. They add up fast, and it's amazing. Fortunately, New York's no-fault insurance system covers initial expenses regardless of who caused the collision. It's not a blank check, though. 

You may be owed more. Think about these costs: 

• Emergency care: Ambulances, ER visits, and diagnostic tests. Your No-Fault insurance will cover these expenses after a car crash. 
• Ongoing treatment: Physical therapy, medications, or follow-ups with specialists. 
• Major procedures: Surgeries or long-term care for serious injuries. 

We'll do our best to ensure those costs don't land in your lap. 

Can You Sue Uber or Lyft Directly? Let's Talk About Your Case 

So, the short answer? It's a tough story, but it's not impossible. Uber and Lyft try to hide behind labels of independent contractors for drivers. This cuts their liability, but there are exceptions. For example, if they didn't do a good job of vetting the driver or failed to enforce safety standards, they could still be liable. 

In most cases, however, the problem lies with the insurance policies. This is where we come in and find every channel for compensation for you to acquire what you rightly deserve. 

What if the Rideshare Driver Had Not Hopped into the App? 

Here's a twist that seems to surprise so many people: Uber and Lyft insurance will not cover the collision if the driver hasn't logged onto the app. Instead, that's when his or her own personal insurance goes into effect. 

Unluckily, personal policies usually exclude rideshare activity. So, what is next? Don't worry, our rideshare accident lawyers will find some alternative options to provide you with compensation. 

Understanding New York's No-Fault Insurance in Rideshare Cases 

New York's no-fault system means your insurance covers medical bills and lost wages up to a point, no matter who caused the accident. But if your injuries are serious—like a broken bone or permanent damage—you can step outside this system and file a claim against the at-fault party. 

Rideshare cases are unlike others because of the layers involved in the multiple insurance policies. The difference in understanding how they interplay means fair compensation and frustration as the case heads to a dead end. 

Navigating the Legal Process after a Rideshare Accident 

It is a long-distance run trying to file for a rideshare accident claim, what with all the deadlines that must be met, evidence collected, and with whom to bargain, which are insurers. 

That is why our rideshare accident attorneys take the burden. From paperwork to insurers' negotiations, we will ensure things keep flowing while you take your time and focus on recovering. 

We want to be crystal clear: negligence comes with a price. A rideshare driver might have been texting, speeding, or even just careless. Our job is to make them accountable not only for you but for everybody else on the road. 

Accountability is not only financial. It ensures dangerous, reckless behavior never happens again. 

How We Will Help You Rebuild After a Garden City Rideshare Car Accident 

Recovery from an accident does not come easily. It involves time, patience, and a lot of support. That is when Horn Wright, LLP steps in. We will fight to get the compensation you deserve —for medical bills, wages lost, and the emotional effect of the accident. 

Your story deserves to be heard—and we're here to tell it. Contact us today for a consultation.