Rideshare services like Lyft offer convenience and accessibility when navigating the bustling streets of New York City. However, if an unexpected Lyft rideshare accident occurs, it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable New York Lyft accident lawyer by your side.
Have You Been Injured in a Lyft Rideshare Accident in New York City?
Harris, Keenan & Goldfarb, our car accident lawyers specialize in securing compensation for those injured in an Uber or Lyft accident. Our legal team can help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims and legal battles against large corporations. Our priority is your recovery and obtaining the justice you deserve from Uber or Lyft drivers who are negligent.
Understanding Lyft Accident Claims in New York
Typically, Uber or Lyft accident cases involve an investigation to determine fault, filing claims, and possibly going to trial to resolve a lawsuit.
How Lyft Insurance Policies Work
- Driver is not logged in: If an Uber or Lyft driver is not logged in to the app and not working, Uber and Lyft drivers’ personal car insurance coverage applies from their insurance company.
- Driver is logged in but has not accepted a passenger: If the Uber or Lyft driver is available to accept passengers but is not actively involved in a fare, a limited Lyft insurance policy applies from their insurance provider for personal injury protection.
- Driver is logged in and has accepted a passenger: If the Uber or Lyft driver is logged in, is driving to pick up an accepted passenger, or is driving a passenger, a more comprehensive Lyft’s insurance policy applies.
The Investigation Process by Your Lyft Accident Lawyer
- Obtaining Witness Statements
- Analyzing Medical Records
- Consulting Accident Reconstruction Experts
- Reviewing Traffic Laws and Regulations
- Assessing Comparative Negligence
The Insurance Claim Process
When a Lyft accident attorney navigates the rideshare insurance claims process for a car accident, they have to deal with multiple types of insurance coverage. Typically, they follow these steps to pursue compensation on behalf of their client:
- Initial Notification of the at-fault rideshare driver
- Investigation of the accident
- Ensuring client has received medical treatment
- Documentation of damages suffered by the client like vehicle damage, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other economic and non-economic losses.
- Demand Letter outlining the client’s injuries, damages, and the compensation they are seeking from the insurance company.
- Negotiation with the insurance adjusters to reach a fair and reasonable settlement agreement.
- Review by a Lyft accident lawyer to determine terms and if a fair settlement agreement has been reached.
The Personal Injury Lawsuit Process
When personal injury lawyers go through the lawsuit process for a car accident, they typically follow these steps to pursue compensation on behalf of their client:
- Initial Consultation and Investigation: The lawyer conducts an initial consultation with their client to discuss the details of the accident, assess the strength of the case, and gather relevant evidence to establish liability and damages. This may involve reviewing police reports, obtaining witness statements, collecting medical records, and analyzing other pertinent evidence.
- Filing the Complaint: The lawyer drafts and files a formal complaint (or petition) with the appropriate court, initiating the lawsuit. The complaint outlines the facts of the case, the legal basis for the claim, and the damages sought by the plaintiff (the injured party).
- Service of Process: The defendant (the at-fault driver or negligent driver) is formally served with a copy of the complaint and a summons, notifying them of the lawsuit and the date by which they must respond. The defendant typically has a specific time frame (often 20-30 days) to file an answer to the complaint, admitting or denying the allegations.
- Discovery Phase: The discovery phase is the pre-trial phase where both parties exchange information and evidence relevant to the case. This can include interrogatories, depositions, requests for production, and requests for admission.
- Mediation or Settlement Negotiations: Before going to trial, the parties may attempt to resolve the case through mediation or settlement negotiations. In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator helps facilitate discussions between the parties to reach a mutually acceptable settlement agreement without going to trial.
- Trial: If the case does not settle, it will proceed to trial. During the trial, both parties present their evidence, witness testimonies, and arguments to the judge and/or jury. The judge or jury will then make a decision based on the evidence presented and applicable law.
- Verdict and Judgment: After the trial, judge or jury will render a verdict determining whether the defendant is liable for the plaintiff’s injuries. If so, damages will be awarded. If the verdict is in the plaintiff’s favor, the court will enter a judgment specifying the amount of compensation the defendant is required to pay to the plaintiff.
- Appeals: If either party is dissatisfied with the outcome of the legal proceedings during trial, they may have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court. The appellate court will review the trial court’s decision to determine if any legal errors were made that affected the outcome of the case.
Why Choose a Lyft Accident Lawyer from Harris, Keenan & Goldfarb
Choosing Harris, Keenan & Goldfarb means partnering with a firm that has a proven track record of success in Lyft rideshare accident cases. The expertise and dedication of our Lyft accident attorneys to our clients set us apart. We understand the impact of an accident on your life and are committed to easing the burden by handling the legal complexities of your case.
Experience
Our legal team of personal injury lawyers works tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to cover medical bills, property damage, missed wages, and other losses in personal injury cases. Trust us to advocate for your rights and hold responsible parties accountable. We will ensure you receive the justice you deserve for your physical injuries and emotional distress or emotional trauma.
Knowledge
Harris, Keenan & Goldfarb stands ready to offer expert legal guidance and support, championing your cause and striving for the maximum compensation. Check out our results and testimonials, then call us at 800-PAIN-LAW or contact us online for a free consultation.