Car Accident

Ridesharing has transformed the way New Yorkers and people across the tri-state area get around. With just a few taps on your phone, you can summon an Uber or Lyft to your doorstep, making transportation more convenient than ever. But what happens when your ride takes an unexpected turn and you’re injured in an accident? Who’s responsible for your injuries, and how can you ensure you receive the compensation you deserve?

At Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, we’ve been representing accident victims in New York City and the tri-state area for over 80 years. Our decades of experience have taught us that while technology changes, the need for strong legal advocacy doesn’t. If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident, you need a team that understands both the complexities of modern transportation and the timeless principles of personal injury law.

The Rise of Rideshare—and New Legal Challenges

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have exploded in popularity, offering flexibility and affordability for millions. However, this new mode of transportation has also introduced new legal questions. Unlike traditional taxis, rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees. The vehicles are privately owned, and the companies themselves often try to limit their liability when accidents occur. This creates a complicated web of insurance policies, contracts, and legal responsibilities. Determining who is liable—and whose insurance will pay—can be confusing, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and medical bills.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

When you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft, several parties could potentially be responsible:

The Rideshare Driver: If the driver’s negligence caused the accident—such as running a red light, speeding, or distracted driving—they may be held liable.

Another Driver:If another vehicle caused the accident, that driver (and their insurance) may be responsible for your injuries.

Uber or Lyft: In certain circumstances, the rideshare company’s insurance policy may come into play, especially if the driver was actively working at the time of the accident.

Other Third Parties: Sometimes, poor road conditions, defective vehicle parts, or other factors may contribute to the accident, opening the door to additional claims.

With so many possibilities, it can feel overwhelming to figure out who’s actually responsible for your injuries. That’s why having an experienced legal team on your side matters—we’ll dig into the details, sort out the confusion, and make sure you don’t miss out on any compensation you deserve.

How Rideshare Insurance Works

One of the most confusing aspects of rideshare accidents is insurance coverage. Uber and Lyft provide insurance for their drivers, but the amount and type of coverage depend on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:

App Off: If the driver is not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance applies.

App On, No Ride Accepted: When the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage (typically $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage).

Ride Accepted or Passenger Onboard: Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the car, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Navigating these layers of insurance can be daunting. At Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, our attorneys have decades of experience untangling complex insurance issues and fighting for the maximum compensation our clients deserve.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Rideshare Accident

If you’re involved in an accident as a rideshare passenger, your actions in the aftermath can have a significant impact on your case. Here’s what you should do:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

Report the Accident: Notify the police and ensure an official report is filed. Also, report the incident to Uber or Lyft through their app.

Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage. Collect contact information for all drivers, passengers, and witnesses.

Do Not Accept Quick Settlements: Insurance companies may offer a quick payout that doesn’t fully cover your losses. Consult an attorney before accepting any offers.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of securing fair compensation.

Why Experience Matters: 80+ Years of Advocacy

For more than eight decades, Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson has stood up for accident victims in New York City and the tri-state area. Our firm has seen the evolution of transportation—from yellow cabs to rideshare apps—and we’ve adapted our strategies to meet the challenges of each new era. Our personal injury attorneys have handled thousands of motor vehicle accident cases, including many involving Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services. We know how to investigate these accidents, identify all liable parties, and navigate the maze of insurance policies. Our long-standing relationships with medical experts, accident reconstructionists, and investigators give us the resources to build strong cases for our clients.

But our experience goes beyond legal knowledge. We understand the stress and uncertainty that follow a serious accident. That’s why we provide compassionate, personalized service—keeping you informed, answering your questions, and fighting for your rights every step of the way.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering trauma. Some of the most common injuries we see include:

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Head and brain injuries
• Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
• Emotional trauma

No matter the severity of your injuries, you deserve to be compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

How Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson Can Help

When you choose Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, you’re choosing a firm with a proven track record of success. We handle all aspects of your case, from investigating the accident and dealing with insurance companies to negotiating settlements and, if necessary, taking your case to trial. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our goal is simple: to secure the maximum compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t navigate the legal maze alone. Trust the attorneys who have been representing accident victims in New York City and the tri-state area for over 80 years. Contact Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson today for a free consultation. Let our experience be your advantage.

Disclaimer: This post is for legal education purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. No attorney-client relationship has been formed. To the extent this post constitutes attorney advertising, past results do not guarantee similar outcomes.