If you’re hurt in an Uber or Lyft crash in New York, you may have multiple insurance paths to compensation. Knowing which policy applies can help you protect medical and wage benefits.
What to do after a rideshare crash
Your actions right after a rideshare accident can strongly affect your ability to recover compensation. Act quickly to preserve safety, care and proof of what happened:
- Prioritize safety and care: Move to a safe spot and get medical attention.
- Call police: Ask for a report number.
- Document the scene: Capture vehicle positions, damage and road conditions.
- Gather information: Exchange contacts and insurance with all drivers and witnesses.
- Report in-app: Use Help to file the incident with Uber or Lyft.
- Save records: Screenshot trip details and driver info.
These steps create a record that may support your claim later.
How New York insurance may apply
New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law Article 44-B outlines the framework and insurance requirements which also governs rideshare coverage periods. New York uses no-fault (PIP). Your PIP may cover up to $50,000 in medical costs and part of lost wages regardless of fault. If injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold, you may pursue additional damages against the at-fault party.
Coverage depends on driver status
Insurance coverage in Uber and Lyft accidents changes based on the driver’s activity at the time of the crash. Each period triggers a different level of protection:
- Offline: Only the driver’s personal policy applies.
- App on, no ride (Period 1): Contingent liability may apply if the personal policy denies coverage.
- En route or with a passenger (Periods 2–3): Third-party liability up to $1,250,000 and UM/UIM may apply; contingent collision/comprehensive may be available if the driver carried it.
Timing and proof can shape outcomes. You may have 30 days to file for no-fault benefits. New York also uses pure comparative negligence so any fault assigned to you could reduce recovery.
What you can do next
Avoid recorded statements to insurers until you understand coverage. Track all medical bills, wage loss and out-of-pocket costs. If injuries may exceed PIP, identify the at-fault party and the applicable rideshare or third-party policy.
Speaking with a local attorney may help you navigate coverage periods, no-fault deadlines and settlement negotiations under New York law.