In Yonkers, various types of accidents occur. Still, our focus now shifts to rideshare vehicle incidents, explicitly addressing the potential victims—passengers who have no control over the vehicle.
If you or a loved one has ever been involved in an Uber accident in Yonkers, read on to discover how to pursue compensation and how The Ward Law Group can provide invaluable assistance in such situations.
Distinguishing themselves from standard car accidents, these incidents involve distinct rules regarding insurance coverage, contingent on whether the driver was logged into the rideshare app at the time.
Should you sustain injuries in a rideshare vehicle accident, reaching out to your Yonkers Uber accident attorney is imperative.
They will guide you in recovering damages, which necessitates a comprehensive investigation of the incident to determine the right amount of compensation.
Common Causes Of Uber Accidents
The underlying causes of Uber accidents largely mirror those of typical accidents that occur universally. However, one intriguing aspect stands out as a potential factor contributing to Uber accidents.
When prospective drivers seek to register on the app, they must furnish details about their vehicle type and its condition and provide information about their car insurance, alongside addressing various technical queries.
Notably, what's absent from this checklist is an evaluation of their driving skills. This omission allows individuals who may not be well-suited to provide transportation services to enter the platform, posing a risk to passengers.
In cases where the driver lacks the necessary qualifications, they may engage in maneuvers that jeopardize passengers, including:
- Speeding
- Aggressive driving
- Distracted driving
- Impaired driving
- Fatigue
- Adverse weather conditions
- Poor road conditions
- Reckless driving
- Inexperienced driving
- Insufficient training
- Neglect of vehicle maintenance
These factors collectively contribute to the heightened risk associated with Uber accidents.
Uber Accidents | Review Of It’s Legal Aspects
Establishing liability in Uber accidents can present challenges. However, the New York Police Department is well-versed in conducting thorough investigations. By examining physical evidence, including skid marks, and gathering eyewitness testimonies, they are able to determine the party at fault in each accident.
Their responsibility lies in meticulously reviewing the facts to pinpoint which driver may have violated traffic laws, whether it be running a red light, speeding, making sudden lane changes, or failing to yield the right of way, among other infractions.
Moreover, they can enlist the assistance of your Uber accident lawyer. These legal professionals are adept at expediting the interview process with eyewitnesses, potentially expediting the resolution of the case. This collaborative effort aims to yield results as swiftly as possible.
What is Uber’s Insurance Policy and Coverages?
When a victim seeks compensation for their losses in an Uber accident, a common challenge arises regarding which party to address the claim to: the driver's car insurance company or the rideshare company.
It's important to note that rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. However, the New York government deemed this practice unfair and mandated rideshare companies operating in the state to provide insurance coverage for their drivers, even though they were claiming not to be direct employers.
The implemented solution offers exclusive coverage when drivers are actively logged into the app. In the event of an off-duty accident, the coverage will not be applicable.
Furthermore, the level of insurance coverage is contingent on the driver's status at the time of the accident. For example, if the driver had a passenger at the time of the accident, Uber’s insurance will provide a minimum of $1,000,000 in coverage.
Conversely, if the driver was logged in and awaiting a ride request at the time of the accident, the rideshare company must provide a minimum of $100,000 per accident and $50,000 per person in coverage.
Statute of Limitations For Uber Accident Claims in New York
The window for a victim to file a claim against a negligent party in an Uber accident is contingent upon the unique circumstances of the case; sometimes, it can be extended, while others may be less than the average.
However, it's worth noting that such circumstances are infrequent. In most cases, the victim typically has a timeframe of up to 3 years from the date of the accident.
It is advisable to promptly seek legal assistance from a Yonkers Uber accident attorney to assess the specifics of your case. They will provide valuable guidance on the available options and offer an estimate of the compensation you may be entitled to receive.
Potential Injuries Present In Uber Accidents
Injuries resulting from an Uber accident in Yonkers can vary widely based on the intensity of the collision, ranging from minor concussions or scratches to severe and potentially fatal injuries.
Following an accident while using a rideshare app, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. A professional evaluation will provide insight into how the accident has impacted your health.
Possible injuries sustained in such incidents include:
- Fractured bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Herniated discs
- Severe lacerations
- Whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
- Burns
- Seat belt injuries
- Paralysis
- Nerve damage
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of limb
It is imperative to promptly address any potential injuries and seek appropriate medical care following an Uber accident.
What Compensation Can I Get After An Uber Accident?
If you've sustained serious injuries in an Uber accident, you have the right to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. A medical professional will assess the severity of your injuries, and based on their evaluation, we can proceed with filing your claim, ensuring all the necessary requirements are met.
Economic damages encompass tangible expenses, making them relatively straightforward to calculate. These include medical bills, transportation to medical facilities, necessary medications, rehabilitation costs, lost wages during your recovery period, and essentially any expense directly related to your injuries.
On the other hand, noneconomic damages are more subjective, representing compensation for intangible losses resulting from an injury or harm. These may include:
- Physical Pain and Suffering
- Mental and Emotional Distress
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Loss of Consortium
- Disfigurement or Permanent Scarring
- Loss of Reputation or Standing in the Community
- Inconvenience and Interference with Daily Life
These noneconomic damages aim to address the emotional and psychological impact of the injuries, providing a comprehensive approach to compensation in civil lawsuits.
Steps To Take As An Uber Passenger When There’s an Accident
If you find yourself as a passenger in an Uber vehicle involved in an accident, it's important to follow these steps:
- Open your Uber app and report the accident. Take the time to provide all the details you witnessed. Then, cancel the ride.
- Dial the emergency number to summon the police to the accident scene.
- Stay at the scene while the police compile the accident report. It's crucial that your name is included in the report to establish your involvement.
In the event of severe injuries requiring immediate attention, seek medical assistance promptly. Paramedics are likely to be on-site to provide assistance. Contact your lawyer right away, and one of our Uber accident lawyers will be on hand to assist you.
The Ward Law Group | Uber Accident Lawyer
If you've sustained injuries in an accident while using a rideshare app like Uber, it's crucial to understand that you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. Don't hesitate to seek legal assistance in such cases.
Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts to save money. It's imperative not to let them succeed in this endeavor. The Ward Law Group boasts a team of highly seasoned Uber accident attorneys with a track record of successful careers, having secured millions of dollars in settlements for their clients.
Reach out to us for a complimentary consultation of your case at 855-DOLOR-55, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.