If you’ve recently been involved in a rideshare accident in Queens, we understand that you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. It can be a distressing experience, and you may have questions about who is responsible for your injuries and damages.
That’s where Poltielov Law Firm can help. With experienced New York personal injury attorneys who focus on rideshare accident cases, we can guide you through the process and fight to protect your rights. Don’t face this difficult time alone – reach out to Poltielov Law Firm for the legal assistance you deserve.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Queens, NY
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely used in Queens, offering convenience but also posing unique accident challenges. Unlike typical car crashes, these incidents involve multiple parties—rideshare drivers, other motorists, and the rideshare company—making liability harder to determine.
New York’s no-fault insurance system covers medical expenses regardless of fault, but it may not fully compensate for injuries and damages. Understanding your legal rights is important to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve after a rideshare accident.
Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Queens
Being in a rideshare accident can be scary and confusing. Whether you’re a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, it’s important to know what to do to protect yourself and your rights. Follow these steps to ensure your safety and make sure you have the right information if you need to file a claim later.
Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your health and safety should always come first. Check yourself and others in the car for any injuries. Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, remember that some injuries can take time to show up. If anyone suffers an injury, call 911 immediately to get medical help. The police will also come to the scene to create an official accident report, which can be very important for your case.
Move to a Safe Location
If it’s safe to do so, move to the side of the road to avoid further danger. Staying in the middle of traffic can increase the risk of another accident. If you’re unable to move due to injuries, stay where you are and wait for emergency responders to arrive.
Gather Information and Take Photos
Once you are safe, gather as much information as possible. This will help you later if you need to file a claim or take legal action. Be sure to:
- Take pictures of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, license plates, street signs, and any visible damage.
- Capture photos of any injuries you or others have.
- Write down the name and contact information of the rideshare driver and any other drivers involved.
- Get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who saw the accident.
- Ask the rideshare driver for proof that they were actively working for Uber or Lyft at the time of the crash.
Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft
After documenting the scene, notify the rideshare company about the accident. You can do this through their app:
- For Uber: Open the app, go to “Help,” then select “Trip Issues and Refunds” and report the accident.
- For Lyft: Go to the “Safety Center” in the app and report the accident under “Report an Accident.”
Uber and Lyft have insurance coverage for accidents, but they may try to limit how much they pay. That’s why having proper documentation is so important.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms right away but can become serious later. A doctor’s report will also serve as important evidence if you need to file a claim for medical expenses.
Contact a Queens Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Dealing with insurance companies after a rideshare accident can be complicated. Since multiple parties are involved—the rideshare driver, the company, and other drivers—it can be difficult to determine who is responsible for paying your medical bills and other damages.
If you’ve been in a rideshare accident in Queens, don’t handle it alone. Reach out to Poltielov Law Firm for a free consultation and professional legal advice. We’ll help you get the compensation you deserve!
Who Pays for Medical Bills After a Rideshare Accident in New York?
As mentioned earlier, New York operates under a no-fault insurance system. This means that regardless of who caused the rideshare accident, your own insurance company will cover your medical bills and related expenses up to your policy’s limits. This coverage is known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
However, there are scenarios where the rideshare company’s insurance may apply. Companies like Uber and Lyft provide a $1 million liability policy, which may come into play if the rideshare driver is at fault.
Additionally, if another driver caused the accident, their insurance may be responsible for your injuries and damages. Your personal injury lawyer can assess the circumstances of the accident and determine the best course of action to pursue compensation.
New York Laws That Protect Rideshare Passengers
In New York, the no-fault insurance law (Article 51 of the Insurance Law) ensures that passengers involved in rideshare accidents can seek compensation for their injuries and damages. Rideshare drivers in New York are required to carry liability coverage, further protecting passengers.
Additionally, the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) regulates rideshare drivers to ensure safety and accountability.
These laws aim to safeguard the rights of rideshare passengers and provide avenues for legal recourse in the event of an accident.
Challenges in Filing a Rideshare Accident Claim in Queens
It’s important to be aware of the common challenges that may arise when dealing with rideshare accident claims. Some insurance companies may try to minimize payouts and undervalue your claim. Others may even deny responsibility altogether.
Delays in seeking medical treatment can also impact your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries are not related to the accident or that they are not as severe as you claim. Seeking medical attention promptly and following the recommended treatment plan is essential.
How a New York Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help After a Rideshare Crash
Getting into a rideshare accident can be a nightmare—confusing insurance policies, uncooperative companies, and mounting expenses can leave you feeling lost. Unlike typical car accidents, rideshare crashes involve multiple parties, making liability disputes more complicated. Having an experienced New York personal injury lawyer on your side can make all the difference.
- Gathering evidence to support your claim
- Negotiating with insurance and rideshare companies
- Filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement fails
- Ensuring fair compensation for medical bills & lost income
- Protecting your rights against unfair tactics
With legal guidance, you can focus on recovery while your personal injury attorney handles the tough negotiations and legal hurdles. Don’t let rideshare companies or insurers minimize your claim—get the representation you need to secure the compensation you deserve.
Call Poltielov Law Firm – New York Rideshare Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Queens, It’s essential to seek legal help to protect your rights and successfully manage the legal process. At Poltielov Law Firm, our experienced New York personal injury lawyer focuses on rideshare accident cases.
Call Poltielov Law Firm at 718-880-2911 for a free consultation and discuss your rights with our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys. Don’t face the aftermath of a rideshare accident alone – let us fight for the compensation you deserve.