Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a common way for people to travel across New York. They are convenient and often seem like a safe option for getting around the city. However, accidents can still happen, even when using these services. Rideshare accidents can lead to serious injuries, and the process of getting compensation for those injuries is not always straightforward. It is especially important to understand why hiring a personal injury attorney after a rideshare accident in New York can make a big difference for you.
When involved in a rideshare accident, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and confused. Rideshare accidents are more complicated than regular car accidents because there are multiple parties involved. The driver, the rideshare company, insurance companies, and sometimes even other drivers can all play a part in the accident. Having a personal injury attorney on your side can help you navigate this complicated process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. At, Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Understanding the Complexity of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents involve different legal issues than regular car accidents. While the driver might be at fault, the rideshare company itself may also share some responsibility, depending on the circumstances of the accident. This is where the process becomes complicated. Rideshare companies often have insurance policies that cover their drivers and passengers, but the level of coverage can change depending on whether the driver was on duty, driving a passenger, or simply waiting for a ride request.
Because there are different layers of responsibility, it can be difficult for someone without legal experience to figure out who is responsible for the accident and how to pursue a claim. A personal injury attorney who has experience with rideshare accidents can identify the responsible parties and hold them accountable. Without a lawyer, you may struggle to understand who should compensate you for your injuries and how to approach each party.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
One of the most challenging parts of a rideshare accident is dealing with insurance companies. After an accident, you will likely need to communicate with both the driver’s personal insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance. These insurance companies may not always have your best interests in mind. Their goal is often to settle the case for as little money as possible, and they may use confusing language or complex legal terms that make it hard to know if you are being treated fairly.
A personal injury attorney can help you navigate these discussions. They can communicate directly with the insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you are not taken advantage of. They will also know how to determine whether the insurance offer is fair or if it is too low. Without legal help, you may end up accepting an offer that does not fully cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.
Proving Liability in a Rideshare Accident
One of the most important parts of any personal injury case is proving who is responsible for the accident. In rideshare cases, this can be more difficult than in regular car accidents because there are often multiple parties involved. It may be the rideshare driver’s fault, but in some cases, it could also be the fault of another driver on the road or even the rideshare company if the driver was not properly trained or screened.
To successfully prove liability, you need evidence. This includes things like accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and sometimes even testimony. A personal injury attorney will know how to gather the right evidence to build a strong case. They can also work with accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals to show exactly how the accident happened and how it caused your injuries. Without an attorney, it may be difficult to gather and present all the necessary evidence to prove your case.
The team is very personable, patient and empathetic with their clients. They are upfront with you and will explain the entire process with you, they never lead you to believe otherwise, they tell you like it is and will not sell you a million dollar dream. Trust in Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, they work for you and he looks out for your best interest.” - Jane D.
Maximizing Your Compensation
When you are injured in a rideshare accident, you deserve compensation for more than just your immediate medical expenses. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may need long-term medical care, physical therapy, or rehabilitation. You may also lose time from work or even be unable to return to your job due to your injuries. Additionally, you deserve compensation for pain and suffering and the emotional toll that the accident has taken on you.
A personal injury attorney understands how to calculate the full extent of your damages. They will look at both your current expenses and your future needs to ensure that you are fully compensated. They will also fight to get you the maximum amount of compensation, whether that means negotiating a fair settlement with the insurance companies or taking your case to court if necessary. Without a lawyer, it is easy to overlook the full extent of your losses and settle for less than you deserve.
Should I Take The First Settlement Offer? Steps to File a Personal Injury ClaimRelated Videos
Navigating New York’s Legal System
New York has specific laws and regulations that apply to personal injury cases, and navigating the legal system can be challenging without legal assistance. There are strict deadlines for filing a personal injury claim, and missing these deadlines could prevent you from receiving any compensation. Additionally, New York follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced.
A personal injury attorney will ensure that your case is filed on time and that all the necessary paperwork is completed correctly. They will also be familiar with New York’s negligence laws and how they apply to your case. Having a lawyer on your side can give you peace of mind, knowing that your case is being handled by someone who understands the legal system and will fight for your rights.
Reducing Stress After an Accident
Being involved in a rideshare accident is a stressful experience. You may be dealing with physical pain from your injuries, emotional trauma, and financial stress from medical bills and lost wages. Trying to handle a legal case on top of everything else can be overwhelming.
By hiring a personal injury attorney, you can reduce the stress of dealing with the aftermath of the accident. Your attorney will handle all the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. They will keep you updated on the progress of your case and handle any difficult conversations with insurance companies or other parties involved in the accident. This peace of mind can be invaluable during a difficult time.
Verdicts & Settlements
Getting the Legal Representation You Deserve
It is important to understand that not all personal injury attorneys are the same. Finding an attorney with experience in handling rideshare accident cases in New York is crucial to the success of your case. They will understand the unique challenges that come with these types of cases and be prepared to handle them effectively.
By working with a skilled personal injury attorney, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. They will investigate the accident, gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and fight for your best interests, whether in settlement negotiations or in court. Without an attorney, you may be left struggling to navigate the complicated legal process on your own, which can negatively impact the outcome of your case.
If you have been injured in a rideshare accident in New York, hiring a personal injury attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make. The legal process following a rideshare accident can be complicated, and dealing with multiple parties and insurance companies can be overwhelming. By having an attorney on your side, you can ensure that your case is handled properly and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we understand the challenges that come with rideshare accident cases. We are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. Let us help you get the compensation you need to recover from your injuries. Contact our firm today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in moving forward after your accident.