Bronx Uber & Lyft Driver Workers' Comp Attorney

Workers' Compensation for Rideshare Drivers in the Bronx

Are you an Uber or Lyft driver in the Bronx, New York, who has been involved in an accident while working? If so, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits, and the experienced legal team at Harris Firm, LLC is here to help you navigate the complex process of seeking compensation for your injuries. We understand the unique challenges that rideshare drivers face when it comes to workers' compensation, and we are committed to fighting for your rights.

Call (718) 487-8669 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our Uber & Lyft driver workers' compensation attorney in the Bronx.

The Rise of Rideshare Services in the Bronx

Over the past decade, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become an integral part of the Bronx's transportation landscape. These services offer convenience and flexibility to both passengers and drivers. However, the increased presence of rideshare vehicles on the road has also led to an uptick in accidents involving these vehicles.

Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. While this classification offers drivers the freedom to set their own schedules, it also means they are not automatically covered by workers' compensation insurance provided by their respective companies. This can leave drivers in a vulnerable position if they are injured while driving for Uber or Lyft.

Common Injuries in Uber & Lyft Accidents

Rideshare drivers are at risk of various injuries on the road. Common incidents resulting in injury include rear-end collisions, sudden stops, and accidents involving distracted drivers. These accidents could result in injuries that demand immediate attention and long-term care.

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Rear-end collisions are especially common in city driving and can cause whiplash—a neck injury resulting from the sudden movement of the head. Whiplash can be painful and lead to chronic issues that may impact a driver’s ability to work comfortably for extended periods.
• Back and Spinal Injuries: Back and spinal injuries are often severe and can result from the sudden impact of a collision. These injuries might require extensive rehabilitation, physical therapy, or even surgery. Many back injuries can also lead to long-term pain, affecting a driver’s capability to sit comfortably for extended hours behind the wheel.
• Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries, which include concussions and other traumatic brain injuries, are common in vehicle collisions and can have lasting cognitive effects. These injuries could impact memory, concentration, and coordination, severely limiting a driver’s capacity to perform job duties.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a crash can cause broken bones and fractures, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs. These injuries may require lengthy periods of immobilization, impacting a driver’s ability to work and manage everyday tasks.
• Emotional and Psychological Injuries: Accidents often have psychological effects as well. Emotional trauma, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder are not uncommon after severe incidents, and these issues can prevent a driver from feeling safe on the road.

Workers' Compensation for Rideshare Drivers in New York

In the state of New York, workers' compensation is designed to provide financial support to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. The key word here is "employees." Independent contractors, like most Uber and Lyft drivers, are not typically eligible for traditional workers' compensation benefits. However, New York has recognized the unique situation of rideshare drivers and has taken steps to provide some protection.

In 2019, New York passed a law that grants workers' compensation benefits to certain rideshare drivers who are injured while driving for a ridesharing platform. This means that if you are a rideshare driver in the Bronx and you can demonstrate that you meet the criteria outlined in the law, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits.

To be eligible for workers' compensation as a rideshare driver in New York, you must meet specific criteria, including:

1. You must be actively engaged in a ridesharing platform's digital network at the time of the accident.
2. The accident must occur within the scope of your rideshare activities, such as transporting passengers or en route to pick up passengers.
3. You must be using your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by the rideshare company.
4. You must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident.

Meeting these criteria can be complex, and the rideshare companies may try to dispute your claim. That's where the legal expertise of Harris Firm, LLC comes into play.

Why Choose Our Uber & Lyft Driver Workers' Compensation Attorney?

Our firm is dedicated to helping rideshare drivers in the Bronx secure the compensation they deserve after a workplace accident. We have extensive experience assisting clients with complex workers’ comp matters, including employee misclassification and uninsured employers.

Here are some reasons why you should choose us to represent you:

• Experience: Our team of attorneys has extensive experience in workers' compensation cases, and we understand the unique challenges faced by rideshare drivers.
• Knowledge of New York Laws: We have a deep understanding of New York's workers' compensation laws and how they apply to rideshare drivers. We stay updated on any changes in legislation that may affect your case.
• Personalized Attention: We treat every client as an individual, taking the time to understand your specific situation and tailor our approach to your needs.
• Strong Advocacy: We are dedicated advocates for our clients and will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available under the law.

Contact Our Uber & Lyft Driver Workers' Compensation Attorney in the Bronx Today

If you're a Bronx rideshare driver who has been injured while working for Uber or Lyft, don't hesitate to reach out to Harris Firm, LLC for a free consultation. We'll review your case, explain your rights, and help you navigate the complex process of obtaining workers' compensation benefits. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the support you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life.

Contact us today at (718) 487-8669 to speak with our Bronx Uber & Lyft driver workers' compensation lawyer, who will be by your side every step of the way.