Lyft Accident Lawyer in NYC

Experienced Bronx Lyft accident attorneys who fight for what you deserve

New York City never stops moving. The horns, the lights, the constant hum of engines, and the footsteps are all part of the rhythm. But when a Lyft ride meant to get you across town turns into a crash scene, you're left with more than just a ruined evening. You're hurt, shaken, and left wondering what comes next.

If that sounds like you or a loved one, an experienced New York City Lyft Accident Lawyer at Giampa Law can help. We know how Lyft accident claims work, how rideshare companies avoid liability, and how to fight back. To find out what we can do for you, contact us to set up a free, no-obligation case consultation.

"Zachary Giampa was great with handling my case when I was a victim of a car accident a few years ago. The entire staff was very helpful, as they contacted me whenever they had an update, and I definitely would recommend Giampa Law." – D.S., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

What causes most Lyft accidents in NYC?

Most Lyft accidents in New York City are caused by a combination of driver error, high-pressure working conditions, and the unique challenges of navigating one of the world's busiest urban environments. Regardless of what caused your Lyft accident, Giampa Law can conduct a thorough investigation to determine the underlying cause.

The most common causes include:

Distracted driving: Lyft drivers often rely on their phones for navigation, ride updates, and communication with passengers, which leads to dangerous split-second distractions.
Fatigue: Many drivers work long hours or juggle multiple jobs, which can lead to slower reaction times and poor judgment.
Speeding: To complete more rides and earn more money, drivers sometimes speed or take risky shortcuts to increase their earnings.
Unsafe lane changes: Quick shifts across multiple lanes or failure to signal can cause collisions, especially in heavy traffic.
Failure to yield: Drivers rushing through intersections may fail to yield to pedestrians or other vehicles with the right of way.
Poor road conditions: Potholes, construction zones, and narrow one-way streets create constant hazards.
Inexperience: Some drivers are unfamiliar with New York City's road rules or neighborhood layouts.

What should you do after a Lyft accident in NYC?

The first few minutes after a Lyft crash are often a blur. However, what you do in those early moments can significantly impact your recovery and the outcome of your claim.

Start by ensuring everyone's safety and call 911. If you're injured, even slightly, get medical attention. Some injuries (especially head, neck, or soft tissue trauma) don't show up right away. Don't brush them off.

Also, document everything by taking photos of the vehicles, the scene, and any visible injuries. Take a screenshot of your Lyft ride confirmation, including the driver's name and vehicle information. All those photos can be critical pieces of evidence.

Then, seek help from an experienced Lyft accident attorney in NYC to determine your next steps. Never give a recorded statement to any insurance company before speaking to a lawyer. The insurance rep may sound friendly, but they're trained to protect their bottom line, and they'll use tactics to reduce your compensation.

Who can file a Lyft accident lawsuit in New York City?

You don't have to be behind the wheel to have rights. If you were a Lyft passenger, a pedestrian, a bicyclist, another driver, or even a Lyft driver yourself, you may be entitled to compensation if you were injured.

Here's how Lyft accident claims typically look:

Passengers in Lyft vehicles can file claims regardless of who was at fault.
Other drivers hit by a Lyft can seek damages (financial compensation).
Pedestrians and bicyclists can file claims if they're struck.
Lyft drivers may also have a claim if another motorist is found to be at fault for the crash.
Family members can pursue wrongful death claims if a loved one was killed in a Lyft accident.

No matter the scenario, Giampa Law can identify the right source of compensation and fight for every dollar owed to you.

How do Lyft accident claims work in NYC?

First, you have New York's no-fault insurance system. If you're injured in any car crash, your own insurance (or the insurance of the car you were riding in) covers your basic medical expenses and lost wages up to $50,000, regardless of who caused the crash.

But that's just the start. If your injuries are serious and meet the legal threshold, you can step outside the no-fault system and pursue a liability claim against the at-fault party. That's where Lyft's unique insurance model comes into play.

Here's how Lyft car accident claims work:

If the driver's app is off, only their personal car insurance applies.
If the app is on but no ride is accepted, Lyft provides limited liability coverage: $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 total per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
If the driver is en route or you're actively on a ride, Lyft's $1 million third-party liability insurance applies, which covers most serious claims.

It sounds straightforward, but proving the driver's app status at the time of the crash isn't always easy. That's one reason why hiring an experienced New York City Lyft accident lawyer is so important. Giampa Law can conduct a thorough investigation to find out what happened and who is legally responsible for compensating you for your crash.

What is the average Lyft accident settlement amount in NYC?

Your Lyft accident settlement amount often depends on many different factors, including how serious your injuries are, how your injuries impact your life, and the specifics of your case. No two claims are ever the same. Giampa Law has seen soft-tissue injury cases settle for $25,000 and traumatic brain injury cases reach over a million.

The factors that influence settlement amounts include:

Severity and permanence of your injury.
Cost of medical treatment (past and future).
Lost income and impact on earning ability.
Pain, suffering, emotional trauma.
Fault: clear vs. disputed liability.
The quality of your legal representation.

When it comes to determining how much you're owed, Giampa Law will leave no stone unturned. We'll factor in everything, including current and future damages, until you reach maximum medical improvement. This way, you don't leave any money on the table before accepting a settlement offer.

Can you sue Lyft for an accident in New York?

You can, but it's not always simple. Lyft classifies its drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This is how the company protects itself from liability in the event of a crash. However, they're not totally exempt from liability.

Lawsuits against Lyft can often succeed when there's evidence of:

Negligent hiring or failure to vet drivers.
Failure to deactivate a driver with prior safety issues.
App defects or algorithm failures that contributed to the crash.

Most claims target the at-fault driver and use Lyft's insurance coverage to recover damages. But if Lyft's own corporate negligence played a role, a lawsuit is absolutely on the table. A knowledgeable NYC Lyft accident lawyer will know when and how to make that happen.

What if I was a passenger in a Lyft during an accident?

If you were a passenger, your case is typically more straightforward because you're not liable. You were along for the ride. Passengers benefit from the strongest legal protections. Lyft's $1 million policy is in effect while you're in the car. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, Lyft's UM/UIM policy kicks in to cover your losses.

However, even with this coverage, don't expect Lyft's insurance provider to hand over a check without a fight. They will still look for ways to reduce their financial obligations. That's where having a skilled attorney on your side pays off.

Giampa Law won't let the insurance companies get away with their usual tricks. We'll fight to hold them accountable and get you the maximum Lyft passenger accident settlement you're entitled to in New York.

How do you report a Lyft accident in NYC?

If you're involved in a Lyft accident in New York City, it's important to report it to both Lyft and the police as soon as possible. Start by contacting the NYPD if an officer has not already been called to the crash scene. A Lyft accident report is required if anyone is injured or if property damage exceeds $1,000. Be sure to request a copy of the Collision Information Exchange report for your records, as it's a key piece of evidence. Giampa Law can obtain a copy of the police report for you and use it to begin building your case.

Next, report the incident through the Lyft app: open the app, go to "Help," select "Report a safety issue," choose the ride, and follow the prompts. Before reporting the crash, it's important to consult a lawyer who can guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.

How long do you have to file a Lyft accident claim in NYC?

In New York City, the clock starts ticking the moment a Lyft accident happens. If you're filing a no-fault (Personal Injury Protection or PIP) claim, you have just 30 days from the date of the crash to do so. For bodily injury lawsuits, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the crash. If the crash resulted in a fatality and you're pursuing a wrongful death claim, you must file within two years of the date of death.

These deadlines are strict, and missing them can mean losing your right to seek compensation altogether. However, it's best to take legal action as soon as possible to protect your rights and strengthen your case. Evidence often disappears quickly, even within the two- to three-year timeline. Plus, witnesses can move away or forget important details. Giampa Law will get right on your case and begin gathering the facts.

Should I accept a settlement offer from Lyft's insurer?

You should exercise caution before accepting any settlement offer from Lyft's insurance company. These early offers are often made quickly after a crash and are designed to close your case for as little money as possible.

While the amount may seem reasonable upfront, it likely won't cover long-term medical expenses, future lost wages, or the full impact the crash has had on your life, both physically and emotionally, as well as financially. Once you accept a settlement offer, that's it. You give up your right to pursue further compensation, even if your condition worsens or unexpected costs arise later.

That's why it's important to consult a skilled NYC Lyft accident lawyer before signing any documents. Giampa Law can evaluate the offer, calculate the true value of your claim, and determine whether you're being treated fairly or taken advantage of by Lyft, its insurance company, or any other at-fault party.

Get help from a skilled Lyft accident attorney in NYC

You've been through enough. The pain, the paperwork, and the phone calls all add up. You don't need to figure it out alone. That's where the Bronx Lyft accident lawyers at Giampa Law come in. We understand how rideshare companies operate and how to navigate the confusion they create when accidents occur.

We've helped crash victims across the Bronx and New York City achieve real, meaningful results. Our attorneys know how to dig into the details and build strong, evidence-based claims. We fight for every dollar you deserve, and we won't back down when insurance companies try to lowball you or shift the blame. You can count on us to stand up, speak up, and push hard for full and fair compensation.

Contact us online or call us today to schedule your free consultation. Because we work on a contingency fee basis, you pay nothing unless we win your case. That means no fees and no pressure. Just smart, aggressive representation from a dedicated NYC Lyft accident lawyer who treats you like family.