Hudson Valley Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys in Dutchess, Ulster & Orange Counties

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have simplified how many people travel around the Hudson Valley, but when rideshare accidents happen, the legal process that follows is rarely straightforward. Unlike a typical car accident claim, a rideshare accident can involve multiple insurance policies, independently contracted drivers, and large corporate entities with on-staff legal teams. That’s why choosing a firm with decades of experience and a track record of standing up to insurance companies is so important. At Basch Keegan & Spada, we know how to get through the unique challenges of rideshare accident cases and fight for your rights every step of the way.

When you choose our firm, you’re choosing:

• Proven experience: We’ve been representing injured plaintiffs since 1987, and we have more than 100 years of combined legal experience among our attorneys.
• Knowledge of rideshare laws: Our team understands how Uber and Lyft insurance policies work and how they interact with New York law and insurance requirements.
• Compassionate support: We treat every client with dignity and respect, taking the time to listen and understand what you’re going through.
• Trial representation: We are known for standing up to powerful companies and insurers in court when a fair settlement isn’t offered.

Want to know more about your options after an Uber or Lyft accident? Call (845) 251-4545 today and schedule a free case consultation.

Liability in Uber & Lyft Accidents

One of the most difficult parts of a rideshare accident claim is determining liability. Unlike most employers, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This difference means that the companies often try to distance themselves from responsibility when a crash occurs, leaving injured passengers or other motorists to untangle a complex web of insurance coverage.

In some cases, a claim may need to be made against the rideshare driver’s personal auto insurance. In other situations, Uber or Lyft’s corporate insurance policy may come into play, but only under certain conditions, depending on whether the driver was logged into the app and whether they had accepted a ride. Sorting through these issues often requires an experienced attorney who knows how to hold all responsible parties accountable.

Factors that can complicate rideshare accident liability include:

• Driver status: Whether the Uber or Lyft driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride, or actively transporting a passenger.
• Insurance layers: Determining which insurance policy applies, such as personal auto coverage, Uber’s $1 million liability coverage, or Lyft’s equivalent policy.
• Multiple parties: Accidents may involve not only the rideshare driver and passenger but also other motorists, bicyclists, or pedestrians.
• Corporate defense strategies: Uber and Lyft often attempt to minimize payouts by rejecting respondeat superior and arguing they are not directly liable for their drivers’ actions.

Filing Against Uber or Lyft’s Insurance Policies

In some rideshare accident cases, injured parties may be able to pursue compensation directly through Uber or Lyft’s insurance coverage. Both companies maintain large liability policies, but accessing these benefits is not guaranteed. You can actually expect the rideshare company to try to find ways not to provide any coverage at all. Our Hudson Valley rideshare accident attorneys help clients determine if their accident qualifies and pursue claims against these corporate policies when possible.

Potential claims against Uber or Lyft insurance policies may involve:

• Passenger injuries: If you were riding in an Uber or Lyft when the crash occurred.
• Other driver or pedestrian claims: If a rideshare driver hit you while they were actively working on the app.
• Coverage disputes: When personal insurance companies and rideshare insurers argue over which policy applies.
• Policy limits: Understanding when the $1 million liability coverage is triggered and how it applies to your losses.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents

What should I do right after a rideshare accident?
Call 911 if anyone is injured, seek medical care, and make sure the accident is reported to both the police and the rideshare company. Then, contact an attorney before discussing details with insurance adjusters.

Does Uber or Lyft automatically pay for my injuries?
No. Insurance coverage from a rideshare company only applies under certain conditions, depending on the driver’s status on the app. An attorney can help determine whether you qualify for coverage under Uber or Lyft’s policy, and how you can demand coverage if it is being denied or delayed.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
Generally, Uber and Lyft avoid direct lawsuits by classifying drivers as independent contractors. However, their corporate insurance policies can sometimes provide compensation, and in rare cases, direct legal action may be possible.

What if the rideshare driver was at fault but not logged into the app?
If the driver wasn’t logged into Uber or Lyft at the time, the company’s insurance policy won’t apply. In that case, the driver’s personal auto insurance would likely need to be explored.

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in New York?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, certain circumstances can shorten this deadline, so it’s important to act quickly.

Free Consultations & Contingency Fees

We understand that the aftermath of a rideshare accident can bring financial stress. Medical bills, lost income, and other costs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer free consultations, so you can get answers about your case without worrying about upfront expenses.

In addition, we handle rideshare accident claims on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This arrangement allows you to focus on healing, not on additional costs.

Let Us Handle Your Rideshare Accident Claim

If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in the Hudson Valley, come to Basch Keegan & Spada. We bring decades of experience, proven results, and genuine compassion to every case we handle. Let us stand up to the insurance companies and rideshare companies to fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.

Contact us online today for a free consultation and learn how we can help. Or dial (845) 251-4545 to speak with a member of our law firm directly.