- Need Help From a Manhattan Rideshare Accident Attorney?
- What Sets Us Apart From Other Accident Lawyers in Manhattan
- Do I Have a Case for My Rideshare Accident?
- Understanding Rideshare Insurance Policies
- What Is My Rideshare Accident Case Worth?
- Common Types of Injuries in Rideshare Accident Claims
- How a Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Help
- The Statute of Limitations for a Rideshare Accident Case in New York
- Our Process for a Rideshare Accident Case
Need Help From a Manhattan Rideshare Accident Attorney?
Rideshare drivers in Manhattan are likely checking their app constantly and looking for their next fair, so they don't always watch the road ahead as attentively as they can. This could have tragic consequences for pedestrians, rideshare passengers, and people traveling in other vehicles.
An experienced personal injury lawyer from Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, can help if you've suffered injuries due to a negligent rideshare driver.
What Sets Us Apart From Other Accident Lawyers in Manhattan
Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, has been getting justice for accident victims in Manhattan for over 50 years. We'll find the best strategy to maximize your compensation.
Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP | Rideshare Accident Law Firm in Manhattan
- We've won over $2 billion for our clients!
- We're members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
- We have a perfect 10/10 AVVO score.
- We're AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell—the highest rating for ethical standards and legal ability.
- We've been recognized by Super Lawyers Magazine.
- We've been recognized as one of the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report.
Been involved in a rideshare accident? Contact our lawyers at (212) 986-7353.
Do I Have a Case for My Rideshare Accident?
Finding out if you have a case after a rideshare accident involves several factors. For example, proving fault is an important consideration. The rideshare driver, other drivers, the rideshare company, and other parties could all hold liability. But consulting the Manhattan rideshare accident attorneys at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, you can gain a better understanding of your position and the potential outcomes of pursuing a claim. Ultimately, our experienced litigators will help you determine if legal action is appropriate.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Policies
All rideshare drivers who work for Lyft and Uber are required to carry private insurance, but the two major rideshare corporations also provide insurance that's applicable under specific circumstances. For example, these companies designate three phases of coverage depending on the driver's engagement with the rideshare app at the time of the crash.
- Phase One—App Off: Coverage applies when the driver is not logged into the app. During this period, the vehicle is considered a personal vehicle, and the driver's private auto insurance policy is in effect. This means that if an accident occurs while the app is off, the driver's personal insurance is responsible for covering damages and injuries, just like any other private car accident.
- Phase Two—Driver Waiting: This phase begins when a rideshare driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request but has not yet accepted one. The rideshare company typically provides limited liability coverage as a safety net. This generally includes third-party liability for bodily injury and property damage, but it might not cover the driver's injuries or vehicle damage.
- Phase Three—Ride in Progress: This phase starts when a rideshare driver accepts a ride request through the app and ends when the passenger exits the vehicle. During this phase, the rideshare company provides the most comprehensive insurance coverage. It typically includes liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, contingent collision, and comprehensive coverage. Liability coverage is often substantial, protecting both the driver and the company from claims by third parties for bodily injury or property damage. If a rideshare driver is involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, the company's policy may also cover the resulting damages.
What Is My Rideshare Accident Case Worth?
Calculating the value of a rideshare crash accident claim involves several components, such as medical expenses, which include current and future costs for treating your injuries and lost wages from being unable to work. Property damage, like repairs to your vehicle, also contributes to your claim's worth. And less tangible costs, such as emotional distress, which don't have direct out-of-pocket expenses, can be included.
When we file a rideshare accident claim or lawsuit in Manhattan, it includes the following:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Medical equipment
- Home modifications
- Lost wages
- Medications
- Disfigurement
- Reduced earning potential
- Property damage and loss
- Reduced
- Pain and suffering
- Assisted living care
- Diminished quality of life
Common Types of Injuries in Rideshare Accident Claims
Rideshare accidents in Manhattan result in severe injuries that have a significant impact on the victim's life, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Severe burns
- Paralysis
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Crush injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Whiplash
- Nerve damage
How a Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Help
We handle all communications with insurance companies and opposing counsel, and we're always prepared to take your case to trial if the other side refuses to make a reasonable settlement offer. We'll also advise you on how to avoid common missteps that might harm your claim. Remember that the goal of our Manhattan rideshare accident lawyers is to alleviate your burden so you can focus on your recovery.
The Statute of Limitations for a Rideshare Accident Case in New York
The statute of limitations is a legal timeframe that dictates how long you have to initiate a lawsuit following an accident. In New York, it's three years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to pursue legal action entirely.
Get a Free Case Evaluation Today. Call (212) 986-7353 Today
Our Process for a Rideshare Accident Case
Our approach to handling Lyft accident cases starts with investigating the accident and identifying all liable parties. Then, our Manhattan car accident attorneys will send a demand letter to all insurance companies of any party who committed an act of negligence that contributed to your injuries.
The Benefits of a Free Consultation
If you're not sure about how to proceed with a claim, your free consultation with our law firm is a great place to start. This meeting provides an opportunity to discuss the specifics of your accident and injuries with a legal professional. We'll also review potential legal strategies available and inform you about how your case is likely to unfold. A free consultation also allows you to ask questions and find out more about our law firm so you can decide if we're the right fit for you.
We Will Gather All the Critical Evidence in Your Case
Key types of evidence include medical records, photographs of the accident scene and vehicle damage, video footage from dashcams or nearby surveillance cameras, police reports, eyewitness accounts, personal accounts from friends and family, testimony from your doctor, specialist analysis like medical professionals who can explain the severity of your injuries and more, and even economists to assess financial losses and accident reconstruction specialists to provide a detailed analysis of the incident.
Negotiating Your Settlement
Insurance companies will do everything they can to minimize settlement and deny claims, so it's important to approach discussions strategically. Our attorneys will present a well-documented claim, highlighting key evidence so we can negotiate a settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses.
What Is Considered Negligence in a Rideshare Accident Case?
Everyone has a duty of care to act in a reasonable manner and avoid causing harm to others. For Manhattan rideshare drivers, this means operating their vehicles safely and following traffic laws. Negligence in a rideshare case occurs when someone is injured because a rideshare driver breaches their duty of care. For example, speeding is a frequent cause of negligence in rideshare accidents. Traffic violations, such as running red lights or failure to yield, also compromise road safety. Moreover, tailgating, or following another vehicle too closely, reduces the driver's ability to react to sudden stops by the vehicle ahead of them, often resulting in rear-end collisions.
Driving under the influence (DUI) significantly impairs a driver's ability to make safe driving decisions. Additionally, distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone while driving, can result in an accident, given the fast-paced nature of driving. Often, identifying distracted driving involves using evidence such as phone records and witness testimony. On the other hand, fatigued driving impairs a driver's reaction time and decision-making skills. This condition is particularly concerning for rideshare drivers who may work long hours.
Some of Our Vehicle Accident Case Results
$1.925 Million | Pedestrian Struck and Injured by Delivery Van
WRSMH obtained a $1.925 million settlement during trial on behalf of a 55-year-old male client who was struck by the defendant's van and knocked to the ground as he stood in the street. His injuries included torn cartilage in his right knee, requiring arthroscopic surgery, as well as cervical and lumbar herniations, which required surgical fusions. The plaintiff was previously granted partial summary judgment on the issue of liability against the defendants, and the trial commenced on the issue of damages only. Our client testified that he was seriously and severely injured when the defendant's delivery driver unexpectedly accelerated his van, striking him in the chest and knocking him to the ground. The defendants denied that the accident caused the claimed injuries and maintained that they pre-existed the accident, given the degenerative condition of the plaintiff's spine and knee. We introduced the testimony of medical professionals and medical records proving that our client's injuries were a direct result of this incident, which was compounded by the fact that he had no prior symptoms or treatment. Given the possible exposure the defendants faced, they opted to settle the case.
$1.9 Million | Driver Injured in Motor Vehicle Collision
Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, was able to obtain a settlement in the amount of $1,900,000.00 on behalf of our client, a 40-year-old man from Queens County. Our client was driving straight along a local roadway in Manhattan when another vehicle pulled out of a parking space and struck him, causing a serious collision. The defendant driver claimed that our client caused the collision by traveling at an excessive speed and failing to keep a proper lookout. As a result of the accident, our client suffered injuries to his neck, which required surgery. The firm was able to settle the case prior to trial.
$4.5 Million | Passengers Injured in Rear-End Collision
WRSMH attorney Jay Wechsler recently settled a case for two automobile accident victims for the global sum of $4,500,000. Our clients were passengers in a vehicle that was rear-ended. One client suffered injuries to his back, knee, and shoulder, while the other client suffered injuries to his back and knee. Both clients made excellent recoveries from their surgeries and only required brief stints of post-operative physical therapy. Even though depositions had not yet taken place and discovery had just begun, Jay was able to obtain an excellent result at the early stages of the case. The cases were settled at a private mediation for $4.5 million.
What Our Clients Have to Say About Us
"Got Me WAY MORE Than I Was Expecting" – T. K. (5-Star Yelp Review)
If you want the best representation, go to WRSMH. If you want the best at WRSMH, get Tracy Kinnery as your representation. I can tell you the insurance company definitely was not a fan of hers because she kicked their ass and didn't break a sweat. I'm so happy Tracy was on my side; I would hate to go against her. And Tracy's paralegal was awesome at her job. They kept me informed all the way through the case. Let's put it this way: She got me WAY MORE than I was expecting. Thank God she was my lawyer.
"Took My Worries Away" - Positive Mind77 (5-Star Google Review)
I would like to take this time to express my gratitude to my attorney, Victor Goldblum. I am a solo entrepreneur & depend on myself to support my three children. After being struck by a tractor-trailer, I endured spine surgery, shoulder surgery, nerve damage, years of pain injections, & severe back pain, which forced me to depend on others. I was so scared when I was unable to walk & move around like normal. Victor was by my side the whole process & took my worries away, genuinely caring for my well-being and recovery. Trucking companies are the WORST! They don't care whose life they destroy! Victor stayed on top of them & we are finally getting justice.
"Highly Recommend This Firm" - Alex L. (5-Star Yelp Review)
After doing some research, I went with this firm after I read all the overwhelmingly positive testimonials from former clients and a few of the very impressive settlement amounts on their website. I called them to discuss my options following a car accident, and they made the entire process easy. My initial consultation was completely free, and my attorney was attentive and always reachable. The staff was also friendly and very helpful. I truly felt that I was in good hands. I highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for a lawyer for any type of personal injury or medical malpractice case.
Other Types of Injury Cases We Handle
Other Locations We Serve Near Manhattan
Call Our Manhattan Rideshare Accident Law Firm Today
Don't handle your rideshare accident case alone. Speak with one of our experienced Manhattan personal injury lawyers by calling (212) 986-7353.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to go to court to get a good settlement?
No. In fact, most insurance companies would prefer to offer you a good settlement instead of having to go to court and face the fierce litigators at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP.
Do I have to accept the first offer I get from the insurance company?
No, and we recommend you don't. It's generally a lowball offer. But our attorneys will negotiate with them to get you a fair settlement that reflects the true cost of your injuries.
How do I find out how much my claim is worth?
The lawyers at WRSMH will be happy to answer all questions about the value of your claim. Give us a call at (212) 986-7353.
What should I do after a rideshare accident in New York?
Check on everyone's injuries and call 911 right away. Take photos of the accident scene. See your doctor immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Contact WRSMH so we can handle all communications with insurance companies.
How much does it cost to hire a rideshare accident attorney in New York?
At WRSMH, it's free. We won't charge you anything unless we win you a settlement.