In recent years, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular modes of transportation in New York City.
While these services have provided convenient alternatives to traditional taxis and public transportation, they have also raised questions about liability in the event of an accident or injury.
If you have been injured while riding in an Uber in New York, you may wonder who can be held responsible for your damages. Here, you can learn about the various parties that may be sued in such a scenario, including the driver, Uber, and other potentially liable parties.
If you are injured in an Uber accident, contact The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrinni, III, for help finding the at-fault party and filing a lawsuit to recover compensation.
Driver Liability in Uber Accidents
If you are injured while riding in an Uber in New York, the driver of the Uber may be held liable for your damages.
To pursue a claim against the driver, you must establish that the driver was negligent or reckless in their actions. Negligence can include speeding, running red lights, failing to yield, or driving while distracted. Recklessness can consist of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or engaging in other dangerous behaviors.
If you can prove that the Uber driver was negligent or reckless, you may be able to recover damages from the driver’s insurance company. In New York, all drivers must carry a minimum of $25,000 in bodily injury liability insurance. However, if the driver’s insurance policy is insufficient to cover your damages, you may also be able to pursue a claim against Uber.
Uber Liability for Accidents
In addition to the driver, Uber itself may also be held liable for accidents and injuries that occur during an Uber ride. Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors, meaning they are not technically employees of Uber. However, Uber still has a legal duty to ensure its drivers are safe and qualified to operate their vehicles.
If an Uber driver causes an accident or injury while on duty, Uber may be liable for damages under a legal theory called “vicarious liability.” Vicarious liability means that an employer can be held responsible for the actions of its employees, even if the employer did not personally cause the harm. To establish vicarious liability, you must show that the driver acted within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident.
Uber also provides insurance coverage for its drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. While drivers are required to carry their own personal insurance policies, Uber also provides a commercial insurance policy that covers up to $1 million in damages per accident. This policy covers bodily injury and property damage and applies to the Uber vehicle’s driver and passengers.
Other Potentially Liable Parties in Uber Accidents
In addition to the driver and Uber, other parties may be held liable for injuries sustained in an Uber accident. For example, if a defect in the Uber vehicle caused the accident, the vehicle manufacturer may be liable for damages. Similarly, if the accident was caused by a defect in the road or other infrastructure, the local government agency responsible for maintaining the roadway may be held liable.
Other drivers or vehicles may have also contributed to the accident. In these cases, the other drivers or their insurance companies may also be liable for damages.
Steps to Take if Injured in an Uber Accident
If you are injured in an Uber accident in New York, there are several steps you should take to protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
First, seek medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident. Even if you do not think you are seriously injured, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure that you do not have any hidden injuries or underlying medical conditions.
Next, document the accident as thoroughly as possible. Take photos of the
accident scene, including any damage to the vehicles involved and any injuries sustained. If there are any witnesses to the accident, try to obtain their contact information so they can be contacted later if necessary.
It is also important to report the accident to Uber immediately. Uber has a dedicated team that handles accidents and insurance claims, and they can guide what to do next. Be sure to give as much information as possible about the accident, including the date and time of the incident, the location of the accident, and the names of any other parties involved.
Finally, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. An attorney can help you determine who can be liable for your damages, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent you in court if necessary.
Contact The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III, for Help After a New York Uber Accident
If you have been injured in an Uber accident in New York, multiple parties may be held liable for your damages. The driver of Uber may be held liable if they were negligent or reckless in their actions, while Uber itself may be held liable under a theory of vicarious liability. Other potentially liable parties may include the manufacturer of the vehicle, the local government agency responsible for maintaining the roadway, and other drivers or their insurance companies.
If you are injured in an Uber accident, it is important to seek medical attention, document the accident as thoroughly as possible, report the accident to Uber, and consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other damages.
After an Uber accident, you may feel confused and unsure of what to do next. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation. We can review the facts of your case and help you recover the full compensation you are entitled to.
