Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are growing increasingly popular in a city once known for its yellow taxis. In fact, in October 2017, Uber actually surpassed traditional cabs in the number of rides provided daily in New York City.
Uber is affordable, reliable, and easy to use. It’s also incredibly convenient for those who live in the outer boroughs. Even if you exclude pickups at LaGuardia and JFK Airport in Queens, more than 50 percent of Uber rides in the city limits begin outside Manhattan.
Despite the many advantages of ridesharing, though, Uber is not without a few major drawbacks. For example, ridesharing remains relatively unregulated. Uber drivers around the country do not have to undergo the same screenings and background checks as taxi drivers, nor do they have to maintain their vehicles to the same standard.
This puts both Uber riders and those on the road around them at risk of serious injury and even death. If you were hurt in an Uber accident, turn to The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny.
Richard M. Kenny is a battle-tested personal injury lawyer who has won more than 150 verdicts on behalf of his clients. Call 212-421-0300 to schedule a free case evaluation with a New York City car accident attorney.
Here are the answers to three frequently asked questions about Uber car accident claims:
- Can I Sue Uber Directly Following a Collision with One of Its Drivers?
People who drive for Uber are not actually employees of the company; rather, they are licensees. Since personal auto insurance does not typically cover collisions that occur while the policyholder is transporting riders for a fare, though, Uber provides its own insurance coverage.
That means in most states, accident victims do not actually sue Uber or the driver directly for their injuries. Instead, they file a claim with the company’s insurance provider.
Since New York operates under a no-fault system, though, you would file a claim with your own provider following a wreck in the city—unless you sustained serious injuries. Injuries that are considered serious are those that result in fractured bones, significant disfigurement, full disability for at least 90 days, or the limitation of use of a body organ, function, or system. If any of these applies to your situation, you would have the right to file a claim with Uber’s insurance provider.
- Does the Coverage Uber Provides Apply to Pedestrians?
Pedestrian accidents are common in New York City because so many people travel on foot. Fortunately, Uber’s insurance coverage applies to virtually anyone whom their drivers might injure including pedestrians, passengers, and cyclists.
- Do I Have to Hire a Car Accident Attorney to File a Claim with Uber?
Just because Uber provides its drivers with coverage does not necessarily mean it’s easy for claimants to secure compensation for their losses. Navigating insurance proceedings is challenging, especially when recovering from serious injuries. Although you can technically file a claim without legal counsel, it is wise to hire an attorney so you can focus on your health while your case proceeds on your behalf.
Discuss Your Case with a Car Accident Lawyer in New York City Today!
If you were involved in a motor-vehicle collision with an Uber driver, turn to The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny. Our personal injury attorneys will evaluate the circumstances of the crash to determine if you have grounds for a claim. We have more than 100 combined years of experience in legal practice. Call 212-421-0300 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with an injury attorney in New York City.
