White Plains Rideshare Lawyers

Over the last decade, rideshare apps have boomed in popularity, and brands like Uber and Lyft are now household names. Mobile ridesharing services may provide New Yorkers and tourists with convenient, inexpensive transportation options, but they require entrusting your safety in the hands of a complete stranger. Unfortunately, these apps do not always correctly vet their drivers, and accidents are not uncommon.

If you are in an accident while in an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare service vehicle (or in another vehicle in an accident caused by the driver of a rideshare vehicle), it can be challenging to figure out what rights you have. At Lever & Ecker, PLLC, our White Plains personal injury attorneys help victims of rideshare accidents hold the negligent parties accountable for the damages they have caused.

Who is Liable for Uber, Lyft, and Other Rideshare App Accidents in White Plains?

Since all accidents are unique, liability is determined on a case-by-case basis. In White Plains, any of the following parties can be held responsible for injuries and other damages that are caused by a rideshare accident:

• Your driver
• The ridesharing company
• Other drivers, including other rideshare drivers
• Other third parties
• Other passengers

Like most businesses, rideshare companies want to maximize their profits. To avoid cutting into their revenue, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft often attempt to minimize their responsibility in the event of an accident. A few ways rideshare companies try to avoid paying victims for their injuries are by:

• Forced arbitration: A method often used to settle disputes outside the court system that deprives victims of their right to a trial by jury. A condition of using the rideshare service, pedestrians and other drivers are not bound by forced arbitration.
• Independently contracting drivers: Ridesharing companies may try to minimize liability by labeling employees as independent contractors. However, this tactic often fails, as these companies are typically found at fault for the actions of anyone engaging in activities under the company’s direction for their benefit.

As a rideshare passenger, the likelihood that you were at fault for your auto accident is slim. More than likely, the at-fault party is the Uber or Lyft driver, or the driver of another vehicle. A Lever & Ecker, PLLC rideshare accident lawyer can identify all possible liable parties in your rideshare accident claim.

Recoverable Damages in an Uber or Lyft Rideshare Accident in White Plains

The amount of insurance available to compensate individuals who have been injured in accidents caused by rideshare drivers varies substantially, primarily based on the location where the ride originated, and, more particularly, as to whether the ride originated within or outside the five boroughs of New York City. Damages, both for past and future damages, can include:

• Pain and suffering
• Medical expenses
• Change in lifestyle
• Disability
• Lost income
• Mental anguish
• Physical therapy
• Property damage
• Funeral costs in the event of a death

Punitive damages may be awarded in rare cases where the conduct of the defendant was found to be wanton, outrageous, grossly negligent, or intentional. Awards for punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoing party and deter others from committing similar acts. Although punitive damages are not applicable in many personal injury cases, a personal injury lawyer at Lever & Ecker, PLLC, can help you determine the types of compensation you may be entitled to as the result of your accident.

Team Up with a White Plains Personal Injury Attorney for Your Rideshare Accident

If you or someone you care about has been injured in an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare vehicle accident, partner with an experienced personal injury lawyer. At Lever & Ecker, PLLC, our White Plains rideshare accident lawyers not only understand the legal aspects of the rideshare industry but have over 65 years of combined experience recovering compensation for New York car accident victims.

A Lever & Ecker, PLLC attorney can discuss your rideshare accident injury case in-depth, create a solid legal strategy, and take the necessary steps to fight for compensation on your behalf. Complete our contact form today to schedule a free consultation, or call (914) 288-9191 or (718) 933-3632. We are standing by twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Late evening and weekend appointments are also available for your convenience.