Bronx Lyft Accident Lawyer
Rideshare companies like Lyft have skyrocketed in popularity nationwide, especially in bustling areas like the Bronx. While this is convenient, what happens if you’re hurt in a Lyft-related accident? Understanding your rights as a passenger is crucial.
First things first: it’s important to contact the police immediately. The Lyft driver may suggest not involving 911, but reporting the accident is in your best interest and keeps the community safe.
Next, check for injuries. Sometimes, they may not be immediately noticeable. It’s good to make a doctor’s appointment regardless.
An attorney can be your ally in this situation. At Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, our Bronx Lyft accident lawyers provide support and knowledgeable representation. With years of experience, we know the tricks of the trade. Contact us at (212) 514-5007 to make sure that you receive the fair treatment you deserve.
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How Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Lyft Accident in the Bronx
If you are injured in a Lyft accident, a Bronx personal injury attorney can help you:
Determine Sources of Insurance Coverage
The first step is untangling the insurance maze. If you are in an accident while taking a Lyft, there are many possible sources of insurance coverage.
- Your own insurance: New York is a no-fault insurance state that requires Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which covers your medical bills and lost wages after a car accident, regardless of fault. If you own a car and have the required PIP insurance, this can be a source of coverage even if you were a passenger in a Lyft.
- The rideshare driver: In New York City (including the Bronx and other boroughs), drivers for rideshare companies are required to carry commercial auto insurance.
- Lyft itself: New York State laws set the insurance requirements for ridesharing or transportation network companies.
- The other driver’s insurance: The driver’s insurance might be a source of coverage if they were at fault.
It’s easy to get confused or to settle for less than you deserve. Insurance companies may try to brush you aside with a quick settlement–or pass the buck, saying one of the other parties’ insurers should cover your injuries.
But at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, we won’t let them get away with it. Our attorneys will dive deep into your case, relentlessly negotiate with all applicable insurers, and, if needed, fiercely defend your rights in court.
File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If your injuries are severe—like a loss of bodily function, permanent injury, or even death—you may be able to pursue compensation beyond the no-fault system. When injuries meet New York’s serious injury threshold, you have the right to file a personal injury claim against the responsible party, whether it’s the Lyft driver, another motorist, or even Lyft itself.
Here’s how Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers can assist you:
- Thorough Case Evaluation: We examine the accident scene, review police reports, and interview witnesses. That includes negligent drivers, faulty vehicle manufacturers, and even government agencies in charge of road maintenance.
- Strategic Insurance Negotiation: Insurance companies might push for a quick, low settlement that barely covers your expenses. Our attorneys know these tactics inside out and will negotiate fiercely to ensure you get the full compensation you deserve.
- Relentless Courtroom Advocacy: If the insurance company doesn’t offer a fair deal, we’re prepared to take the battle to court. Our trial attorneys are ready to present a case that demands attention.
Contact Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers with any questions about your Lyft accident case.
What is My Lyft Accident Case Worth?
There’s no simple answer to what your accident case is worth. The value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the circumstances of the accident.
If your injuries are serious, medical bills—both current and future—will be a significant part of your claim. The case’s value may also include lost wages from time off work and the potential reduction in your future earning capacity.
What Types of Damages Are Available?
Car accident victims are eligible for various types of compensation, depending on their case. These typically fall into three categories: economic, non-economic, and, occasionally, punitive damages.
- Economic Damages: These cover measurable financial losses such as medical expenses (both current and future), lost wages, property damage, and any other out-of-pocket costs directly linked to the accident. The goal is to reimburse victims for the financial hardships caused by the incident.
- Non-Economic Damages: These aim to recognize the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on the victim’s life. They include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and the impact on relationships, such as loss of consortium.
- Punitive Damages: Although rare, punitive damages may be awarded when the at-fault driver’s behavior was reckless or intentional. These damages serve to penalize the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Talk to an attorney to schedule a free consultation and learn how much your Lyft accident case might be worth.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
At Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay our fees upfront. Our payment comes as a percentage of the compensation we win for you—if we don’t secure a settlement or win your case, you owe us nothing. This allows you to pursue justice without financial stress. Plus, it guarantees that we’re fully committed to getting you the best possible outcome, as our fee depends on your recovery. You win, we win!
Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Being Blamed for a Lyft Accident in New York?
New York uses a pure comparative approach to contributory fault. This means that you can still recover from a Lyft accident in New York as long as you are not found to be 100% at fault.
However, your compensation will be reduced proportionally to your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 40% at fault for the accident, you can still recover 60%.
We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Car Accident Injuries
Some of the most common injuries from car accidents are:
- Whiplash: This occurs when a sudden, forceful motion causes the head to jerk forward and then backward. The strain on the neck muscles and ligaments can lead to pain, stiffness, and restricted movement.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a collision can fracture or break various bones, with the ribs, arms, legs, collarbone, and wrists being frequently affected.
- Head Injuries: These range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Even a slight impact on the head can result in a concussion, while more intense collisions can cause significant brain damage.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents can damage the back and spine, leading to herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and, in severe cases, spinal cord injuries.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Injuries such as sprains, strains, and tears in muscles, tendons, and ligaments might not be immediately visible but can cause considerable pain over time.
- Chest Injuries: The force of a seatbelt or steering wheel can break ribs or damage internal organs, often requiring immediate medical attention.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Debris, like broken glass or metal from the crash, can cause cuts and lacerations. Some may be minor, while others might need stitches or surgical intervention.
- Internal Injuries: Organ damage, including injuries to the lungs, kidneys, liver, or spleen, can occur as a result of a car accident.
Accidents can also lead to psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which are compensable.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Lyft Accident in New York?
New York personal injury lawsuits must be brought within three years of the accident. This means that you have three years to file a lawsuit, or you risk losing your right to do so. It is in your best interest to contact a lawyer to ensure you file within the required time frame.
What Should I Do After a Lyft Accident?
First, take a moment to breathe deeply and assess for injuries. Ensuring your own safety and that of others is the most important step. If someone is hurt, call 911 right away for medical help. If everyone is safe, move to a secure spot, such as the roadside, and activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Next, either you or the Lyft driver needs to let the rideshare company know what happened. Often, this can be done through the app. The company will likely take over from there. However, make sure to get the other driver’s information, including driver’s license, insurance card, phone number, and license plate number.
If there are witnesses, either you or the Lyft driver needs to gather contact information. You can also record witness statements with your phone. In addition, photograph the accident scene thoroughly, including damage to the vehicles and location. Take photos of any relevant road conditions or signs. These images can be crucial for your insurance claim.
If you have your own car and are covered by PIP insurance, notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and let them handle the details. Keep a record of all communication with any insurance company. This can be useful if disputes arise later.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to visit a doctor, even if you don’t feel injured, since some injuries may not be immediately noticeable.
Involved in a Lyft accident? Reach Out to Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers.
No need to drown in insurance company paperwork. Contact Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers today. We recognize the struggles you’re facing and are here to help. Let us handle the legal aspects while you focus on your recovery. With over 40 years of experience, we’re dedicated to advocating for injury victims in the Bronx.
Our initial consultation is absolutely free. Don’t hesitate to call us or reach out to us online. We’re available to answer your questions and schedule a time to discuss your case.
