Rideshare Car Accident Attorneys in Rochester, NY 

Ridesharing’s supposed to make life easier, right? A quick, convenient way to get around Rochester, NY, without the stress of driving yourself. But when your Uber or Lyft ride ends in a crash, it’s a whole different story. Having an experienced Rochester rideshare accident attorneys by your side can make all the difference. 

We get it—this isn’t something anyone plans for. The lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, know how scary and frustrating this can be. With years of experience handling rideshare accident cases in Rochester, you deserve to have one of the best law firms in America guiding you through to get the compensation you deserve.

The Hidden Complications of Rideshare Accidents in Rochester, NY 

Rideshare accidents aren’t your typical fender benders. They’re more complicated—there’s insurance, liability, and the rideshare company itself to deal with. If you’ve never been through something like this, it’s easy to feel lost. Always remember: it’s never too late to hire a lawyer after a car crash. 

Here’s the deal: Uber and Lyft have their own insurance policies, but they don’t always apply. If the driver wasn’t logged into the app at the time of the crash, their personal insurance is what kicks in. On the flip side, if the driver was actively picking up or transporting passengers, the rideshare company’s $1 million coverage comes into play. It all depends on the driver’s status at the exact moment of the accident. 

What makes it even trickier is determining fault. Was the rideshare driver distracted? Did another driver cause the collision? Or was it a mix of both? Sorting all this out can feel like a puzzle you’re too stressed to solve. 

Rideshare Insurance in Rochester: Who’s Got You Covered? 

Let’s cut to the chase—figuring out whose insurance pays after a rideshare accident isn’t simple. It depends entirely on the timing of the crash. 

• Driver off the clock: If your rideshare driver wasn’t logged into the app, you’re dealing with their personal car insurance. This is just like any regular car accident. 
• Driver waiting for a ride request: Things get a little murky here. Uber and Lyft offer limited coverage during this phase—up to $50,000 for injuries and $25,000 for property damage. It’s helpful but not comprehensive. 
• Driver en route to a pickup or during a trip: The rideshare company’s full $1 million liability coverage applies. This also includes uninsured motorist protection in case the other driver doesn’t have coverage. 

It’s a lot to digest, we know. But understanding how this works can be the key to getting what you’re owed after a crash. Hiring a lawyer after a car crash that wasn’t your fault will help avoid having to understand these things on your own. 

Why Do Rideshare Accidents Happen in Rochester, NY? 

We know Rochester is full of busy roads—Monroe Avenue, East Henrietta Road, and Route 104 can be chaotic on a good day. Add in the unique pressures of rideshare driving, and it’s no wonder accidents happen. 

Distracted driving is a major problem. Rideshare drivers constantly check their phones for new requests or directions, and that split-second distraction can lead to disaster. Fatigue is another issue. Many drivers work long hours or odd shifts to earn extra cash, leaving them exhausted and slower to react. 

Speeding is another frequent factor. Many rideshare drivers are under pressure to complete as many trips as possible, leading them to exceed speed limits. These behaviors, combined with inexperience behind the wheel, create dangerous conditions on the road. 

Injuries After a Rideshare Accident: What You Might Be Dealing With 

Here’s the hard truth: even a minor accident can leave you hurting. Rideshare crashes often lead to injuries that are more serious than they first seem. Maybe you walked away thinking, “I’m fine,” only to wake up the next day with a stiff neck or worse. Sound familiar? 

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries we see, especially in rear-end collisions. Broken bones, cuts, and bruises are also pretty typical. But sometimes, the damage goes deeper—spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even internal bleeding might not show symptoms right away. 

These injuries can turn your life upside down. Medical bills pile up. You might be forced to miss work or even face permanent limitations. It’s not fair, and you shouldn’t have to bear the burden alone. That’s why working with skilled Rochester rideshare accident attorneys can help you secure the compensation you deserve. 

What Should You Do After a Rideshare Accident in Rochester, NY? 

The moments after a crash are overwhelming. But what you do next can make all the difference. Here’s how to protect yourself: 

1. Document the car accident scene: Try and get good pictures of the accident scene—vehicle damage, road conditions, and even your injuries. The more evidence you gather, the stronger your case will be. 
2. Request a copy of the police report: Getting a copy of the police report is important after an accident, as it lays out the facts of the crash, including who might be at fault. Check it for errors as soon as possible. 
3. See a doctor ASAP: Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Some injuries don’t show up right away, or until you have the most important diagnostic test in a personal injury case. Plus, medical records are key when filing your claim. 

Finally, don’t try to handle this alone. A skilled car accident lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring you get fair compensation for your damages, from medical bills to lost wages and beyond. 

Proving Fault in a Rideshare Accident: How It Works 

Determining fault isn’t always straightforward. In some cases, it’s clear the rideshare driver made a mistake. Other times, another driver or even road conditions could be partly to blame. 

New York’s comparative negligence rule allows for shared responsibility. That means even if you’re partly at fault, you can still recover damages, though the amount may be reduced. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible, your compensation might be reduced by that percentage. 

It’s also crucial to act fast. The statute of limitations in New York for car accidents is three years. That may sound like a long time, but the sooner you start gathering evidence and building your case, the better your chances of success. 

Contact Horn Wright, LLP: Rochester’s Trusted Rideshare Accident Attorneys 

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Rochester we’re here for you. Our team of rideshare accident attorneys understands what you’re going through and knows how to get results. 

We’ll handle the heavy lifting—dealing with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and fighting for the compensation you deserve. You’ve got enough on your plate; let us take care of the rest. 

Don’t wait. Reach out to Horn Wright, LLP today for a FREE consultation. We’ll stand by your side every step of the way. Let’s get you the justice you deserve.