1. What should I do if I’m injured in an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident in the Bronx?

If you’re injured in an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident in the Bronx, the first priority is to seek immediate medical attention, even if the injuries seem minor. Document the accident scene by taking photos of the vehicles, your injuries, and any relevant road conditions or traffic signs.

Make sure to obtain the contact information of the driver, other passengers, and any witnesses. Report the accident to the police and ensure an official accident report is filed. It’s also crucial to report the incident to the rideshare company (if applicable) through their app or customer service. Avoid making any statements about fault or discussing the accident with the driver’s insurance company before consulting with one of our experienced Bronx Uber, Lyft, and taxi accident lawyers.

We can help you navigate the legal process, gather necessary evidence, and ensure your rights are protected while pursuing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

2. Who can be held liable for an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident in New York?

In New York, liability for an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident can fall on several parties depending on the circumstances. The driver of the rideshare or taxi vehicle is often the first party considered, especially if they were negligent, such as by speeding, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws.

However, liability may also extend to the rideshare company if the driver was on duty and actively using the app, or to the taxi company if the driver was operating within the scope of their employment. Additionally, if another driver caused the accident, they could also be held liable.

In some cases, the vehicle manufacturer or a maintenance provider may be responsible if a mechanical failure contributed to the accident.

3. How is an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident case different from other car accident cases?

An Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident case differs from other car accident cases primarily due to the involvement of commercial entities and the unique insurance issues that arise. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft typically have specific insurance policies that apply when a driver is logged into the app and actively transporting passengers.

These policies can be complex, with different levels of coverage depending on whether the driver was waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting someone. Taxi accidents may involve the taxi company’s insurance, which can also have specific requirements and limitations.

Additionally, the involvement of a commercial entity can mean more aggressive defense tactics and more complex negotiations. Our Bronx Uber, Lyft, and taxi accident lawyers are well-versed in these complexities and can navigate the legal challenges to build a strong case.

4. How much compensation can I get for an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident injury in New York?

The amount of compensation you can receive for an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident injury in New York depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and the circumstances of the accident.

Compensation typically includes medical expenses, such as hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing care required. You may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages if your injury prevents you from working, as well as future lost earnings if the injury results in long-term disability.

Additionally, compensation may cover pain and suffering, which accounts for the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident. In cases where the driver’s or company’s behavior was particularly reckless, punitive damages may also be awarded.

5. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident in the Bronx?

In the Bronx, as in the rest of New York, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after an Uber, Lyft, or taxi accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years to initiate legal action against the responsible parties.

However, if the accident resulted in a wrongful death, the family of the deceased typically has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. It’s important to note that certain circumstances, such as cases involving government vehicles or entities, may have different time limits.