An Uber accident lawyer can help determine fault and fight for real accountability
Rideshare accidents can turn deadly in an instant, leaving passengers and their families to navigate devastating losses and complex legal questions. When an Uber or Lyft passenger is killed in New York City due to someone else's negligence, families face not only overwhelming grief but also urgent concerns about liability, insurance coverage, and their legal rights.
A recent tragedy in North Philadelphia serves as a stark reminder of these dangers—a 63-year-old woman lost her life while riding as an Uber passenger when the vehicle was struck by a suspect fleeing from law enforcement.
Similar incidents can happen anywhere, including on NYC's busy streets, raising critical questions about who's responsible when Uber accidents result in catastrophic injuries or death.
How does liability work in rideshare accidents?
When a passenger is killed or injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, determining liability can become complicated because multiple parties and insurance policies may be involved at the same time.
Unlike traditional car accidents, responsibility may rest with the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, another motorist, or even a combination of these parties, depending on who was negligent and what each person was doing at the time of the crash.
In many cases, fault is determined by examining driver behavior, police reports, witness statements, vehicle and app data, and any available video footage to identify whose actions directly caused the collision and resulting injuries.
Because rideshare drivers operate under both personal and company-backed insurance, the driver’s status on the app at the time of the accident (logged off, waiting for a ride, en route to pick up, or carrying a passenger) often determines which insurance coverage applies and how much compensation may be available.
Uber maintains different levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver's status:
- Period 1: When the driver has the app on but hasn't accepted a ride request, Uber provides limited liability coverage.
- Period 2: After accepting a ride request and while en route to pick up the passenger, Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage.
- Period 3: From passenger pickup through drop-off, Uber provides $1 million in third-party liability coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
What are the legal rights of Uber passengers and their families?
When tragedy strikes during a rideshare trip, passengers and their families have important legal rights that protect them in the aftermath.
Families of deceased passengers may pursue wrongful death claims against the responsible parties, seeking compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, companionship, and the emotional pain and suffering caused by the loss.
They're also entitled to a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the accident, which may include access to police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and expert analysis.
What are common challenges in fatal rideshare accident cases?
Pursuing justice after a fatal Uber accident in New York presents unique obstacles:
- Multiple Insurance Policies: Cases may involve the rideshare company's policy, the driver's personal insurance, and the at-fault party's coverage. Coordinating between multiple insurers requires legal expertise.
- Corporate Resources: Uber and Lyft are massive corporations with legal teams dedicated to protecting company interests. Individual victims need strong advocacy to level the playing field.
- Unclear Liability: When crashes involve fleeing suspects, police pursuits, or multiple vehicles, establishing clear liability requires thorough investigation and legal analysis.
- Time Constraints: New York has specific statutes of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. Families must act within these timeframes to preserve their legal rights.
What should NYC families do after a fatal rideshare accident?
If a loved one has been killed in an Uber or Lyft accident, taking these steps can protect your legal rights:
- Document Everything: Preserve all evidence related to the ride, including trip receipts, text messages, emails, and any communications with Uber or insurance companies.
- Obtain Copies of Reports: Request official police reports, medical records, and accident investigation documents.
- Avoid Quick Settlements: Insurance companies may offer rapid settlements that seem substantial but fall far short of what victims deserve. Once accepted, these settlements typically prevent further legal action.
- Don't Give Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may request recorded statements that could be used against your claim. Consult with an attorney before providing any statements.
- Consult Legal Counsel Promptly: Speaking with an experienced NYC Uber accident lawyer early in the process helps preserve evidence and protect your rights from the start.
How can an Uber accident lawyer help me?
Giampa Law has successfully represented families in the Bronx and throughout NYC who have lost loved ones due to the negligence of others. Our approach includes:
- Thorough Investigation: We work with accident reconstruction experts, review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and examine all available evidence to build the strongest possible case.
- Insurance Negotiation: Our team has extensive experience negotiating with rideshare companies and their insurers. We understand their tactics and know how to counter them effectively.
- Trial Experience: While many cases settle, we're prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to secure the compensation your family deserves.
- Compassionate Support: We understand that no amount of money can replace a loved one. Our goal is to ease the financial burden while you focus on healing and honoring your family member's memory.
If your family has experienced the unthinkable loss of a loved one in an Uber accident, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Our compassionate legal team is here to answer your questions, explain your rights, and help you pursue the justice and compensation your family deserves.
“Giampa Law did an amazing job on my case. They were always available to speak with me at any time, unlike other law firms that give you the runaround. I highly recommend this law firm.” – Elias, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐