Buffalo Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Call Us After an Uber or Lyft Accident in New York
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are known for making getting across town convenient and affordable. However, rideshare vehicles can cause the opposite if they are involved in a car accident. Navigating the nuances of an injury claim when a crash is caused by a rideshare driver, or if you were in a rideshare vehicle when it was hit, can be both frustrating and confusing.
To help make sense of your situation, Faraci Lange, LLP is here. Our rideshare accident attorneys in Buffalo are the team that locals trust for outstanding legal counsel that prioritizes their recovery and comfort. No matter who or what company is on the other side of your injury claim, we have the knowledge and experience required to confidently address the situation.
Talk with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer today by dialing (888) 997-4110 and asking for a free consultation about your rideshare accident.
Who Can Be Liable For Rideshare Accidents?
The liable parties in a rideshare accident can be different from what you might expect in a typical car accident case. This is the first reason why many people know to head to a law firm soon after being in a crash that involved an Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service. With the assistance of our rideshare accident lawyers in Buffalo, you can easily determine who is liable for your damages. More specifically, we can figure this out for you while you focus on recovering as best you can.
Understanding the complex web of liability is crucial in rideshare cases. Drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians can be involved in these accidents, each with potential claims. Often, liability can extend beyond the driver to include the rideshare company, especially if negligence is proven in their hiring or compliance processes. At Faraci Lange, LLP, we delve into all these aspects, ensuring no stone is left unturned.
The liable party or parties in your rideshare accident might be:
- Rideshare driver
- Another motorist
- Rideshare company
- Another third party
Were you involved in a rideshare accident? Don't hesitate to speak with a professional rideshare accident lawyer in Buffalo out our firm.
Rideshare Insurance Coverage Explained
Getting into a rideshare accident is something no one wants, and unfortunately, there's nothing inherently positive that can come from such an event. However, there is a silver lining in the form of the insurance policy held by the rideshare company. Both Uber and Lyft have significant insurance policies that can provide strong coverage to injured passengers, other motorists, and rideshare drivers after a crash. The amount of coverage you can use or expect depends on the specifics of your accident.
Rideshare insurance often offers broader coverage than standard policies, but deciphering their complexities requires adept legal know-how. These policies can include liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage. Navigating these layers is intricate, and a skilled rideshare accident attorney in Buffalo can effectively interpret and leverage these provisions.
For example, Uber can provide coverage in three tiers:
- Tier 1 – no coverage: When a rideshare driver is in a crash but does not have the rideshare app on, Uber does not provide any coverage or claim any responsibility for that driver. The injured parties will have to file against the auto insurance policy that the driver purchased on their own.
- Tier 2 – some coverage: When a rideshare driver is using the app to look for a new fare but has not accepted one, Uber can provide some coverage. Specifically, the company has a 50/100/25 policy, but it only becomes usable if the rideshare driver's policy caps before all damages are covered.
- Tier 3 – most coverage: When a rideshare driver is using the app and has accepted a fare, whether the passenger is in their vehicle or they are driving to pick them up, Uber can provide the most coverage possible under its policy. Up to $1 million in coverage can be used to cover the damages of all parties involved. Most car accidents do not cause more than $1 million in total damages, so this policy can be sufficient in many cases.
The challenge is how to access that policy coverage. Uber and Lyft, being major corporations, focus on keeping their profits high. A simple strategy for that is to challenge any claim that comes their way, even if it is obviously legitimate. Do not take it personally—it's just business. But do not take it sitting down, either. Get in touch with a local rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible!
Understanding Deadlines & the Claims Process in Buffalo
New York requires people hurt in a rideshare accident to move quickly to protect their rights. In Buffalo, the statute of limitations for filing most personal injury cases, including rideshare accidents, is three years from the date of the collision. Missing this deadline usually means losing the chance to obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related losses. Claims involving government vehicles may require quicker notice or additional forms.
You should also be aware that New York law sets specific deadlines for insurance claims. Notifying your insurer soon after a rideshare accident means you can receive no-fault benefits promptly, covering basics like medical treatments or missed work. Insurance adjusters often act fast in cities like Buffalo, where traffic accidents are common, so prompt action preserves your right to pursue benefits and allows your legal team to gather key evidence efficiently.
Types of Compensation Available in Buffalo Rideshare Accident Cases
Many people hurt in Buffalo rideshare crashes wonder what compensation might be available. New York law allows accident victims to seek damages for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and income lost from time away from work. If an injury leads to ongoing care or limits your ability to work, future medical care and continued wage loss may also qualify for compensation. Buffalo’s busy roads and unpredictable seasons can require additional medical documentation, so keeping thorough records is important.
New York also allows for damages covering pain and suffering or a permanent drop in quality of life. Many survivors face emotional distress or lasting inconvenience after a serious accident. In severe cases that cause permanent disability, compensation may help address costs for home modifications or specialized equipment. Documenting expenses with your medical providers and riding-sharing accident lawyer can strengthen your injury claim and support your recovery in Buffalo.
Benefits of Hiring a Buffalo Rideshare Accident Attorney
Being involved in a rideshare accident can be a traumatic experience, and many victims are often unsure of what to do next. While some may consider handling the situation themselves, it is important to understand the benefits of hiring a rideshare accident lawyer.
Here are some reasons why you should consider hiring a lawyer:
- Experience: Rideshare accident attorneys have the necessary experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. They have dealt with numerous cases like yours and know the best strategies for a successful outcome.
- Investigation: A lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Negotiation: Lawyers can negotiate with insurance companies and other parties involved in the accident to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Representation: A lawyer can represent you in court if necessary, ensuring that your rights are protected and your injury claim is presented effectively.
At Faraci Lange, LLP, our Buffalo rideshare accident lawyers have years of experience representing victims of rideshare accidents. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
By hiring seasoned attorneys at Faraci Lange, LLP, you tap into an advantage: the ability to anticipate and counteract tactics used by large corporations to minimize payouts. Our firm prioritizes your recovery by maximizing settlement opportunities through strategic negotiation and tenacious advocacy. Get in touch with a rideshare accident lawyer in Buffalo right away.
Connect with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer in Buffalo as soon as possible. Dial (888) 997-4110 or submit an online form.
Rideshare Accident Trends and Statistics in Buffalo
Rideshare services in Buffalo have contributed to a notable increase in vehicle traffic and accident rates. Local trends show that the convenience of rideshares has led to more traffic incidents, as more drivers are on the roads at all hours. Recent statistics indicate the prevalence of minor collisions during peak evening and weekend hours when demand for services like Uber and Lyft is at its highest. Understanding these trends allows users to make informed decisions about their rideshare usage and the potential risks involved.
These trends also offer insights into effective safety measures and regulations needed to address emerging risks. Local initiatives focus on enhancing driver training programs to stress defensive driving skills and awareness of pedestrian-heavy areas. Rideshare companies may need to collaborate with local governments to ensure that their drivers adhere to stricter safety guidelines, and possibly involve insurance companies to better cover shared-ride scenarios. Want to know more? Connect with a rideshare accident lawyer in Buffalo today!
Safe Driving Practices for Rideshare Passengers and Drivers
Safety in rideshare services starts with awareness and proactive measures from both passengers and drivers. Passengers should verify driver details and vehicle plates before entering the vehicle to match what's provided in the app. Sharing trip details with a trusted contact enhances safety. Passengers should contribute to a safer journey by staying aware and not distracting the driver, keeping conversations minimal and polite, and allowing the driver to remain focused.
Drivers should prioritize adhering to local traffic laws and remain vigilant about road conditions. Proper vehicle maintenance, including timely service checks, tire inspections, and ensuring all lights function, enhances road safety. Using GPS for navigation while avoiding phone distractions ensures the driver remains attentive. In Buffalo, where weather conditions can change quickly, adopting defensive driving techniques is essential during winter months when roads may be icy and visibility poorer.
Buffalo Rideshare Accident? Contact Us to Stand Up to Uber & Lyft
Call our Buffalo rideshare accident attorneys right away if you have been in a crash involving a rideshare service. Our team can represent rideshare passengers, rideshare drivers, other motorists, and pedestrians. We know how to approach each unique case from the correct angle to make the most of available evidence and seek the full amount of compensation owed, whether it is provided by the rideshare company’s policy or a different one.
Our comprehensive approach ensures that all liable avenues are explored. We collaborate closely with you, meticulously collecting evidence and consulting with experts when necessary to reinforce our findings. Empowering you to make informed decisions, our team elucidates every legal nuance to bolster your confidence amid the legal complexities. Think you have a claim? Contact a rideshare accident attorney in Buffalo at Faraci Lange, LLP as soon as possible.
To get your case moving, please dial (888) 997-4110 now to connect with a rideshare accident lawyer.
Why Choose Faraci Lange, LLP?
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Over 55 Years of Experience
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11 Attorneys Listed in Best Lawyers in America®
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3 Attorneys Are Part of the American College of Trial Lawyers
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Focusing Solely on Personal Injury Cases
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Compassionately Helping Injured Victims in Western NY Since 1968
"Very helpful, considerate, and compassionate!"We would highly recommend Faraci Lange and Matthew and his staff. Everyone was very helpful, considerate, and compassionate! ...
- Carol