Brooklyn Rideshare Accident Lawyers
Helping Uber & Lyft Riders Get the Compensation They Deserve
Rideshare drivers and passengers are often involved in car accidents in Brooklyn. In some cases, these accidents are caused by driver negligence. In other cases, rideshare companies themselves are liable for damages when they fail to provide adequate training or hire drivers who are unfit to be behind the wheel. If you were injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver or vehicle, you may be eligible for compensation.
At Rubenstein & Rynecki, our Brooklyn rideshare accident lawyers are ready to help. You don’t have to face rideshare companies or other large corporations on your own. Our team is prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call (718) 522-1020 or fill out our online contact form today to request a free case evaluation.
Rideshare Driving Laws in New York
In New York, rideshare services are regulated by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) for services operating within the city, including services like Uber, Lyft, and other similar platforms.
Rideshare drivers in New York City must obtain a TLC Driver’s License. To qualify, drivers typically need to be at least 19 years old, possess a valid New York State driver’s license, and complete a background check, which includes criminal record checks and driving history verification.
The TLC has specific vehicle requirements for rideshare drivers. Generally, vehicles must meet certain criteria related to age, safety, and accessibility. For example, vehicles typically need to be 4-door sedans or SUVs that are no more than a certain number of years old (e.g., 10 years for standard vehicles). Additionally, vehicles must pass an inspection by a TLC-licensed inspection facility.
Insurance Coverage for New York Uber & Lyft Drivers
Rideshare drivers in New York City are required to have commercial auto insurance that meets the TLC’s minimum coverage requirements. It’s important to note that personal auto insurance policies usually do not cover accidents that occur while driving for hire. Uber and Lyft may provide additional insurance coverage during specific periods, such as when the driver is logged into the app and actively providing a ride.
Here is a breakdown of when each party’s insurance policy applies, according to when the rideshare app is on and in use:
- When the app is off – The rideshare driver’s auto insurance coverage applies.
- When the app is on and the driver is waiting for a ride request – If the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the crash, Uber and Lyft maintain third-party liability insurance of at least $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
- When the app is on and the driver is on the way to pick up a passenger or transporting a passenger to their destination – Uber and Lyft cover at least $1 million for third-party auto liability per accident.
Rideshare companies are responsible for the actions of their drivers. This means they are liable for all damages caused by their drivers, regardless of whether the driver was on duty or not.
Rideshare companies can be held liable for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Our team can help you recover fair compensation for all of your losses. Our rideshare accident attorneys can also help you prove that the rideshare company was negligent, which can significantly increase your damages.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Rideshare Accidents?
In New York, personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of the incident. In cases involving rideshare drivers, the clock typically starts ticking when the rideshare company is officially served with the claim. If the rideshare driver is an independent contractor, the clock starts when you are served with the claim.
Ready to Fight for You
Uber and Lyft drivers are not subject to the same stringent requirements as other drivers. Many rideshare drivers work part-time, for short periods of time, or as independent contractors. In some cases, these drivers are completely untrained and unprepared to drive passengers.
It is not uncommon for Uber or Lyft drivers to be involved in serious accidents. We are ready to hold anyone accountable for your injuries and help you make the best possible recovery inside and outside the courtroom.
Contact our Brooklyn Rideshare lawyers today at (718) 522-1020 to schedule a free consultation.
