We Fight for Justice for Ridesharing Accident Victims in New York

At Poltielov Law Firm P.C., our Queens rideshare accident attorney is skilled, knowledgeable, and committed to fighting for justice for victims and families. We hold big ridesharing companies (Uber and Lyft) and their insurers accountable. If you have any questions or concerns about an Uber accident injury claim or a Lyft accident injury claim, we can help. Contact us at our Forest Hills law office today for a free consultation with a top Queens ridesharing accident lawyer. 

What to Know About Rideshare Insurance Regulations in New York 

Ridesharing accidents can create complicated insurance questions. New York has one of the most well-developed regulatory systems governing rideshare companies (Uber and Lyft) in the entire country. The state’s 2017 Transportation Network Company (TNC) law establishes strict insurance and liability requirements for drivers, passengers, and third parties. As rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties and overlapping insurance coverage policies, it is useful for injured victims to understand how the law operates. Here are some key points to know:  

  • Three Periods of Rideshare Activity: For Uber and Lyft accidents, insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. There are three different periods of ridesharing accidents. The first is when a driver is “offline.” That means that their personal auto policy applies. Uber/Lyft are not involved. The second is when the ridesharing app is one but no ride has yet been accepted. Under New York Law, the company  must provide at least $75,000 in bodily injury per person, $150,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage. The third period is when a ridesharing passenger is in the vehicle or when a ride has already been accepted. Under New York Law, the ridesharing company must carry at least $1.25 million in combined liability coverage in this situation. 
  • Mandatory Coverage by All Ridesharing Vehicles: Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1693, rideshare companies must maintain continuous insurance coverage that meets or exceeds the statutory minimums. The coverage must include both liability and no-fault (PIP) benefits to comply with the state’s no-fault insurance system. 

Another factor that can make ridesharing accident claims complicated in New York is that the state operates under a no-fault system. Passengers and drivers injured in rideshare crashes should access their PIP benefits first, regardless of fault. However, a ridesharing accident victim who suffered a serious injury can file a fault-based claim directly against the responsible party. 

Recovering Compensation for a Ridesharing Crash

Hurt in a rideshare accident in New York City or elsewhere in the surrounding region? It is imperative that you are able to secure the full and fair financial compensation that is available to you under the law. Do not trust Uber, Lyft, or any commercial liability insurance company to look out for your best interests. A top-tier attorney can help. Along with other types of damages, our New York ridesharing accident lawyer is prepared to help you seek compensation for: 

  • Vehicle repairs or replacement; 
  • Emergency medical services; 
  • Hospital bills and other health care costs; 
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitative support; 
  • Loss of wages and loss of earning power; 
  • Pain and suffering and mental distress; 
  • Disability or disfigurement; and
  • Wrongful death of a family member.

How Our New York Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer Can Help

Ridesharing accident claims are complicated. New York’s insurance regulations can raise a lot of questions after a crash. R. Ariel Poltielov is a New York auto accident lawyer who has extensive experience handling both Uber crash claims and Lyft crash claims. Our case results tell the story of what we can do for victims and families. A proactive approach is the best approach. Among other things, our New York rideshare accident attorney is ready to: 

  • Conduct a free, comprehensive review of your Uber/Lyft accident claim;
  • Investigate the crash, gathering the evidence you need for a strong case;
  • Represent you in any settlement negotiations with the insurance company; and
  • Take aggressive legal action to fight for the maximum financial compensation. 

Contact Our Queens Rideshare Accident Injury Lawyer Today

At Poltielov Law Firm P.C., our Queens rideshare accident attorney is skilled, experienced, and solutions-focused. If you were hurt in an Uber accident or a Lyft accident, we can help. Call us now or contact us online to set up your free, no obligation case review. With an office in Forest Hills, we handle ridesharing accident injury claims in New York City and throughout the surrounding region. 

Rideshare Accidents in Queens: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Rideshare Accident in New York?

Under New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) § 214, most personal injury claims (including those involving rideshare crashes) must be filed within three years from the date of the accident. If the crash resulted in a fatality, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is two years under EPTL § 5-4.1. Do not wait to take action: If you do not bring a claim in a timely manner, you could miss out on your chance to recover financial compensation at all. 

How Does No-Fault Insurance Work in Rideshare Accidents?

New York’s no-fault system means injured passengers, pedestrians, or drivers can first recover Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits regardless of fault. These benefits cover medical bills, a portion of lost wages, and certain out-of-pocket expenses. However, you cannot recover for pain and suffering under no-fault unless your injuries meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold.

Can I Sue Uber or Lyft Directly After a Crash in New York?

Usually, you cannot sue the rideshare company directly because drivers are classified as independent contractors. However, the company’s insurance policy still provides coverage for injuries and property damage that occur during an active trip. In other words, the claim typically goes through the insurer, not Uber or Lyft itself.