Manhattan Lyft Accident Lawyer
Rideshare services like Lyft have become essential to transportation in New York City. With so many Lyft drivers on the road, the risk of accidents has increased.
Victims of Lyft accidents often face serious injuries and mounting medical bills. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Lyft accident, you need a skilled Manhattan Lyft accident lawyer to help you seek compensation.
At Davidoff Law, we are familiar with the nuances of rideshare accident cases. Our seasoned car crash lawyers are committed to fighting for your rights. We know how to work through the legal system to hold negligent Lyft drivers accountable.
Learn more about Lyft accident claims following a motor vehicle accident below. Then, contact our New York Lyft accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation.
Our Manhattan Lyft Accident Lawyer Knows the Risks of Rideshare
Rideshare platforms like Lyft have changed how people travel in New York City. While they offer convenience, they also come with unique risks.
Lyft drivers often face tight schedules and pressure to accept more rides, which can lead to reckless driving. Our Manhattan Lyft accident lawyer understands these risks and how they contribute to accidents.
We have seen firsthand how rideshare accidents can devastate lives. Victims may suffer severe injuries that require long-term medical care. Our accident attorneys provide compassionate and effective legal representation.
We even negotiate with the other driver's insurance company on behalf of Lyft accident victims. Let us help you pursue compensation for lost wages, emotional trauma, and medical expenses.
Common Causes of Lyft Accidents in Manhattan
Lyft accidents can happen for various reasons in the busy streets of Manhattan. Awareness of the common causes can help prevent future incidents and determine liability. If you have been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, a few potential causes include:
Distracted Driving by Rideshare Drivers
Lyft drivers often rely on smartphones for navigation and communication with passengers. Constantly checking the app can distract drivers from the road. Distracted driving is a frequent cause of crashes in Manhattan.
When drivers take their eyes off the road, even for a moment, the risk of a collision increases. Let our New York Lyft accident lawyer fight for you.
Unfamiliarity With Roads
Many Lyft drivers are unfamiliar with all the streets and traffic patterns in New York City. Unfamiliarity can lead to sudden stops or wrong turns, which can cause accidents, especially in heavy traffic.
Drivers who rely too heavily on GPS may not react quickly to unexpected road conditions, which can lead to an accident involving a Lyft vehicle.
Bad Weather
Poor weather conditions like rain, sleet, or snow make driving more dangerous. Wet or icy roads reduce traction, increasing the risk of skidding. Lyft drivers may not adjust their driving habits appropriately during bad weather. Failure to drive cautiously can lead to serious accidents.
Driver Fatigue Due to Long Hours
Lyft drivers frequently work long hours to boost their earnings. Long periods behind the wheel can lead to driver fatigue. Tired drivers have longer reaction times and could fall asleep at the wheel.
Driver fatigue significantly increases the likelihood of accidents, which can also create major car insurance issues.
Traffic Violations and Reckless Driving
Some Lyft drivers may speed or ignore traffic signals to complete more rides. Traffic violations like running red lights or illegal turns are dangerous. Reckless driving puts passengers and other road users at risk, and it can lead to severe accidents and catastrophic injuries.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Lyft Accidents
Lyft accidents can cause various injuries, some of which may have long-term effects. Below are some common injuries sustained in rideshare accidents.
- Whiplash. A sudden jolt can strain the neck muscles. Whiplash often causes pain and limited mobility.
- Broken bones. The force of a collision can fracture bones. Broken bones may require surgery and rehabilitation.
- Head injuries. Striking your head can lead to concussions or traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can affect cognitive functions.
- Spinal cord injuries. Trauma to the spine can lead to paralysis. Spinal injuries often require extensive medical care.
- Cuts and lacerations. Shattered glass or metal can cause deep cuts. These wounds may lead to scarring or infections.
- Internal injuries. Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs. Internal bleeding is life-threatening and needs immediate attention.
- Burns. Fires can cause burns in severe accidents. Burn injuries are painful and may require skin grafts.
- Psychological trauma. Accidents can lead to anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. Emotional injuries are as serious as physical ones.
- Soft tissue injuries. Sprains and strains can affect muscles and ligaments, potentially leading to major mobility problems.
These injuries could change your life forever, so you must seek medical attention promptly after a Lyft accident.
Liability in Manhattan Lyft Accidents
Determining liability in a Lyft accident can be complex. Multiple parties, including the Lyft driver and other motorists, may share responsibility. Knowing how liability works is crucial for seeking compensation.
Determining Fault in Rideshare Collisions
Deciding who is at fault in a rideshare crash involves investigating the circumstances. Police reports, witness testimony, and evidence from the scene are essential. Sometimes, both the Lyft driver and another driver may share fault. Our accident lawyers thoroughly examine all factors to determine liability.
New York follows a comparative negligence system. As a result, if you are partially at fault, your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault.
You should have an experienced lawyer to advocate for you. We strive to minimize your share of fault and maximize your settlement package.
Role of Lyft's Insurance Coverage
Lyft has liability insurance coverage for its drivers. The amount of coverage depends on the driver's status at the time of the accident. There is limited coverage if the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride. Higher coverage applies if the driver is on the way to pick up a passenger or has a passenger.
Understanding Lyft's insurance policies is indispensable for your claim. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. Our NYC Lyft accident lawyers know how to overcome these issues. We ensure that you receive the full benefits available under Lyft's insurance.
Shared Fault Between Multiple Parties
In some situations, other parties may share liability. For example, another driver may have caused the accident. Poor road conditions or faulty vehicle parts can also contribute. Identifying all responsible parties is important for maximizing your compensation.
Our Lyft accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations. We gather evidence to hold all negligent parties accountable. This sweeping approach increases your chances of a successful claim. We push to ensure you recover the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Lyft Accident
Taking the right steps after a Lyft accident can protect your rights. Here's what you should do immediately following the incident.
- Ensure safety. Move to a safe location if possible. Check yourself and others for injuries.
- Call 911. Report the accident to the police. Emergency services can provide medical assistance if needed.
- Gather information. Collect contact and insurance details from all drivers involved, and remember to get the Lyft driver's information.
- Document the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, damages, and surroundings. Visual evidence can support your claim.
- Speak to witnesses. Get contact information from any witnesses. Their statements can be valuable evidence.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Contact a Lyft accident lawyer. Reach out to our Manhattan Lyft accident lawyer. Legal guidance is vital at this stage.
Following these steps can strengthen your case. Acting promptly can make a significant difference in the outcome.
How a Manhattan Lyft Accident Lawyer Can Help
- Investigate the accident thoroughly. We collect evidence from the scene, including police reports, witness statements, and video footage. Our goal is to build a strong case for you.
- Negotiate with insurance companies. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in cases involving Lyft drivers. We handle communications and negotiations on your behalf.
- Understand complex insurance policies. Lyft's insurance coverage can be complicated. We know how to navigate these policies, ensuring you receive the benefits you're entitled to.
- Represent you in court if necessary. We'll take your case to court if a fair settlement isn't possible. Our car accident lawyers have the litigation background needed. We will fight aggressively for your rights.
- Provide compassionate legal support. We know the stress you're under. Our team offers empathetic guidance throughout the process. You're not alone in this journey.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after a Lyft accident?
Call 911 to report the accident, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, and collect contact information from the driver and any witnesses.
Who pays for my medical expenses after a Lyft accident?
Lyft provides liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, but your own insurance or the at-fault driver’s insurance may also contribute.
How long must I file a claim for a Lyft accident in Manhattan?
In New York, you generally have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim.
Contact Our Manhattan Lyft Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation
If you've been injured in a Lyft accident, don't go through the legal process alone. Our Manhattan Lyft accident lawyer is here to help you seek compensation.
At Davidoff Law, we have the experience and dedication to fight for your rights. We always put the needs of our clients first, and we can do the same for you.
Contact us today for a free case consultation.