What are your rights in an Uber or Lift Accident?
For Uber or Lyft accidents in New York that do not involve extensive damages or serious injury, no-fault insurance covers accident expenses. In this respect, insurance works the same way in NY as it does for regular car accidents. The purpose of no-fault insurance is to provide medical care without determining who was at fault for a car accident. Rideshare drivers and other drivers must all carry no-fault insurance in New York.
Simple, right? It can be as long as no-fault insurance is adequate to cover the damages.
When damages or injuries are greater than what the no-fault insurance covers, matters become more complicated. Injury victims can sue the at-fault driver for damages. Another factor that make rideshare accidents different, is that rideshare companies must also carry insurance to cover accident damages. Victims have successfully sued rideshare companies for damages as well. Examples of damages include serious injuries, pain and suffering along with emotional distress.
In addition, the laws that apply to rideshare drivers in New York State are different than the laws that apply to rideshare drivers in New York City.
New York State Law Applying to Uber or Lyft Accidents
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) licenses the Transportation Network Company (TNC) to use networks (smart phone aps) to connect drivers and passengers for ride sharing. New York has two TNCs, Uber and Lyft.
With the exception of New York City, TNC regulations that apply to TNC drivers are different than the laws that apply to taxi cab drivers. TNC operation in the State of New York requires rideshare companies to carry insurance coverage of $1,250,000 per occurrence when a TNC driver is driving a TNC passenger.
NYC Uber or Lyft Accidents
When your no-fault insurance doesn’t cover serious injury damages, you would need to hire an attorney to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. In New York City, the Taxi & Limousine Commission determine the requirements for rideshare service, just as they do for taxis and limousines.
Rideshare drivers must carry a minimum of $100,000 of personal liability insurance coverage. When a rideshare driver is on the way to picking up a passenger or is driving a passenger, Lyft and Uber company insurance is also in effect.
Coverage amounts vary depending on whether the rideshare company is Uber or Lyft.
Did you suffer serious injuries as a result of an Uber or Lyft accident in New York?
If so, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney. Your lawyer can investigate and determine whether grounds exist to sue for damages. The Law Office of John Fazzini offers free initial consultations. Our fees are part of the compensation recovered, but only if we win or settle the case.