What to Do After a New York Rideshare Pedestrian Accident
Over the years, rideshare services have been becoming more and more popular—especially in states like New York. With all the modern conveniences they offer, it is not hard to see why Uber and Lyft are so popular. They are often quicker, cheaper, and cleaner than traditional taxi-cabs. Unfortunately, more cars on the road will almost always lead to more car accidents. Pedestrians are even more vulnerable than drivers when it comes to rideshare accidents. After all, it is hard for any one person to do anything with a 2-ton vehicle barrelling towards them. It may feel impossible to recover from your injuries after a rideshare pedestrian accident. Fortunately, a qualified personal injury lawyer may be able to help.
Recovering Damages From a Rideshare Pedestrian Accident
New York is a “no-fault” state, meaning that your insurance provider should cover some or all of your expenses after a car accident (regardless of who was at fault). It can be difficult for victims of pedestrian accidents to recover compensation under these rules—but it certainly is not impossible. If the accident has left you with serious injuries, then you may be eligible to take legal action against the liable driver. According to Article 51 of New York’s Insurance Law, “serious injury” can refer to any injury that results in more than $50,000 in damages, disfigurement, loss of function, permanent injury, serious limitations, or wrongful death.
Liability in a Rideshare Pedestrian Accident
After being hit by a rideshare driver, most people’s first instinct is to sue the company. However, this is rarely ever the best course of action to take. Lyft and Uber drivers are generally considered independent contractors, not employees. Therefore, Lyft and Uber cannot be held liable for their actions. Any victims looking to recover damages must instead seek them out directly from the driver.
Rideshare Insurance and Pedestrian Accidents
Though Lyft and Uber drivers are required to carry personal car insurance, the companies often supplement this with their own coverage. This company coverage is especially useful in cases where the driver’s insurance does not cover rideshare or commercial driving. Company coverage only applies in cases where the driver was actively working and logged into the app. These policies may cover $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident. Both Lyft and Uber also carry over $1 million in coverage per accident. Thus, you can rest easy knowing that you will have at least part of your damages covered in the case of a rideshare pedestrian accident.
Seeking Legal Help
.Were you or a loved one recently injured in a .rideshare. pedestrian accident? We at Gattuso & Ciottoli, PLLC may be able to help. We draw on over 50 years of combined legal experience to serve you as best we can. We proudly serve the Central New York area, including Syracuse, Syracuse, Watertown, Binghamton, North Syracuse, Camillus, Liverpool, Cortland, and Auburn. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced New York personal injury attorneys.