As rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become more prevalent, the number of accidents involving rideshare vehicles has also increased. However, these are not like ordinary auto accidents, as the laws surrounding these services can be both complicated and inconsistent across jurisdictions. So what exactly should you do if you get into an Uber accident, and what does that mean for you?
What Are Rideshare Services?
Rideshare services are companies (typically operating as app-based services) that allow people to get transported by a private vehicle, similarly to a taxi service. However, unlike a conventional taxi or transport service, the drivers do not work directly for the rideshare company itself. Instead, at least in theory, the rideshare app acts as a middleman that arranges the trip, taking a portion of the fee that is paid to the driver.
What Makes An Uber Accident More Complicated?
Part of what makes an Uber accident or other rideshare accidents more complicated is that they do not have the same requirements as traditional transportation companies like taxis. As a result, the licensing and insurance requirements can change dramatically depending on where you are traveling, with New York City in particular having surprisingly lax requirements for rideshare drivers. Moreover, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft typically treat their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, in part to try to avoid liability in the event of an accident.
How Might This Impact You?
If you choose to ride in an Uber or Lyft and get into an accident, these varying laws can mean you have substantially different outcomes, depending on where you get into an accident. In most of New York State, you can generally expect drivers to have sufficient coverage for most accidents. In New York City, however, there is a greater chance that you may struggle to get adequate compensation from the driver.
What Should You Do if You Get Into an Uber Accident?
If you are involved in an accident involving an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare driver, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling personal injury cases, including rideshare accidents. They can go through your case with you to evaluate your potential legal options, so that you can get the best possible outcome for your situation.
For more than 50 years, the New York lawyers at Elovich and Adell have represented clients in Taxi and more recently rideshare accidents. Our attorneys, conveniently located in Long Beach, handle personal injury, real estate, commercial transactions, criminal defense, and labor and employment claims all across New York State. For a consultation, please call us at 516-432-6263 or visit our contact page for more information.
