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Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare Accident Attorney in Buffalo

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!

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 near you 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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Buffalo

Call our Buffalo rideshare accident attorneys right away if you've been involved in an incident involving any rideshare service. Our team can represent passengers, drivers, motorists, and pedestrians, and we know how to approach each unique situation from the right angle to maximize available evidence and seek full compensation whether it's provided by the rideshare company's policy or another source.

Immediately after an accident, prioritize safety and health by moving to a secure location if possible and seeking medical attention swiftly, even if injuries seem minor. Such actions not only ensure personal well-being but also provide documented medical records vital for legal proceedings. Document the scene, collect witness details, and report the incident to the rideshare company—these are crucial steps that facilitate efficient legal follow-up.

How Does Rideshare Insurance Work?

Rideshare insurance involves a three-tier coverage model, variable based on the driver's app usage. When the app is off, standard personal insurance applies. When the driver is available or waiting for a ride request, limited coverage may be in place. Full coverage kicks in once a ride is accepted until the drop-off is completed. This layered approach is designed to cover various stages of rideshare activities, acknowledging that drivers transition between personal and commercial modes. Understanding these layers is crucial in ensuring proper compensation.

It is vital to familiarize yourself with your own insurance policy too, as rideshare coverages are meant to complement rather than replace personal policies. Many drivers and passengers mistakenly believe that rideshare companies offer comprehensive protection regardless of the scenario, but gaps may exist that only a thorough policy review can reveal.

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability in rideshare accidents can be complex, as it might involve multiple parties. The driver, rideshare company, other motorists, or third-party entities can all potentially share fault depending on the circumstances of the incident. Rideshare companies often dispute liability by arguing that their drivers are independent contractors, complicating direct claims against company policies. In such nuanced scenarios, determining liability involves analyzing driver agreements, corporate policies, and the precise role of each party at the time of the accident.

Having a legal representative familiar with these intricacies can be pivotal. The team at Faraci Lange, LLP is experienced in sorting through such details, aiming to ensure the most appropriate parties are held accountable for your losses.

Can a Passenger Be at Fault in a Rideshare Accident?

While less common, passengers in rideshare vehicles can occasionally be deemed partly at fault in accidents. This situation might arise when a passenger's actions directly distract the driver or interfere with their ability to operate the vehicle safely, such as grabbing the wheel or obstructing the view. Comparative negligence laws in New York allow fault—and therefore liability—to be distributed among multiple parties, including passengers, based on their contribution to the incident. Consequently, understanding your role and actions during the ride can influence the evaluation of fault and the ensuing legal process.

In such instances, it is important to detail the incident accurately to clarify the extent of involvement and to represent yourself effectively in insurance claims or legal settings.

What Are My Rights as a Rideshare Passenger in Buffalo?

As a rideshare passenger in Buffalo, you are entitled to several rights, particularly concerning your safety and well-being. You have the right to a safe ride, which includes a vehicle that is well-maintained, a driver adhering to traffic regulations, and a journey that does not deviate from its agreed-upon route. Additionally, you retain the right to refuse any ride in which you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, whether due to the driver's behavior or vehicle conditions. Rideshare platforms provide support channels where issues can be reported and addressed, underscoring their commitment to passenger security.

In terms of insurance rights, rideshare passengers are often covered by the company's insurance policies in the event of an accident, offering reassurance that medical expenses or damages will be addressed. However, navigating these rights against corporations can be daunting, warranting guidance from legal professionals who can interface with rideshare firms and insurers effectively. Reach out to a qualified rideshare accident lawyer at our firm as soon as possible.

Why Choose Faraci Lange, LLP?

  • Over 55 Years of Experience
  • 11 Attorneys Listed in Best Lawyers in America®
  • 3 Attorneys Are Part of the American College of Trial Lawyers
  • Focusing Solely on Personal Injury Cases
  • Compassionately Helping Injured Victims in Western NY Since 1968
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