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With the growing popularity of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, New Jersey roads have seen an increase in accidents involving these vehicles. While ridesharing offers convenience, it also presents unique legal challenges when accidents occur.
Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crashes involve multiple layers of liability, various insurance policies, and corporate protections that can make filing a claim complex. If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be wondering:
These questions can be difficult to answer without legal assistance. An experienced rideshare accident lawyer in New Jersey can help navigate the complexities of insurance claims, prove liability, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Rideshare accidents are different from standard car crashes due to legal complexities and corporate involvement. Unlike taxi drivers, Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, meaning the companies often deny direct liability when accidents happen.
Filing a claim for an Uber or Lyft accident is not always straightforward. There may be multiple insurance companies involved, each trying to minimize their payout. Determining who is responsible for covering damages depends on whether the driver was actively using the rideshare app at the time of the accident.
Rideshare services are also governed by different state and federal regulations than private vehicle owners or taxis, adding another layer of complexity to your claim. Insurance companies may deny your claim or offer a low settlement, hoping that you will accept it without understanding your legal rights.
A skilled New Jersey Uber accident lawyer will:
Without legal representation, you may struggle to receive fair compensation and could be left dealing with costly medical bills and lost income.
While rideshare accidents can happen for many reasons, there are certain risk factors that are unique to Uber and Lyft drivers.
Distracted Driving Rideshare drivers constantly use their phones to accept rides, navigate, and communicate with passengers. This diverts their attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Driver Fatigue Many Uber and Lyft drivers work long hours, often driving late at night after another job. Fatigue impairs reaction time and judgment, making accidents more likely.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance Unlike taxi services, Uber and Lyft vehicles are privately owned, meaning drivers are responsible for their own car maintenance. Some neglect routine checks, leading to mechanical failures such as brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine malfunctions.
Reckless or Aggressive Driving To maximize earnings, some drivers may speed, make unsafe lane changes, or drive aggressively to complete more rides in a shorter time. These actions increase the risk of a crash.
Third-Party Negligence Not all rideshare accidents are caused by Uber or Lyft drivers. Other motorists, pedestrians, or dangerous road conditions can contribute to a collision. In such cases, it is important to identify the responsible party and file a claim accordingly.
Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on whether the driver was actively working for Uber or Lyft at the time of the crash.
The driver’s insurance coverage depends on their status when the accident occurred:
Uber and Lyft usually deny responsibility because their drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees. However, if corporate negligence played a role—such as failing to remove a driver with a history of reckless behavior—you may be able to file a lawsuit against the company.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps can help strengthen your claim and improve your chances of receiving compensation.
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation.
Medical Expenses You can seek reimbursement for hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, therapy, and prescription medications.
Lost Wages and Future Earnings If your injuries prevent you from working, you may receive compensation for lost income and future earning potential.
Pain and Suffering You may be awarded damages for emotional distress, trauma, and loss of quality of life.
Property Damage You can recover compensation for vehicle repairs or replacement and damage to personal belongings.
Wrongful Death Damages If a loved one died in a rideshare accident, surviving family members may receive compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.
Choosing the right attorney is crucial for your case. Look for a lawyer with experience handling Uber/Lyft accident claims, a strong success record, and positive client testimonials.
A reputable rideshare accident lawyer will work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront fees—they only get paid if they win your case.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft for my injuries? In most cases, Uber and Lyft are not directly liable for accidents because their drivers are classified as independent contractors. However, if corporate negligence played a role in the accident, such as failing to properly vet a driver with a history of reckless behavior, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit against the company.
What if the rideshare driver was off-duty at the time of the accident? If the Uber or Lyft driver was not logged into the app when the accident occurred, the rideshare company’s insurance does not apply. In this case, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy would be responsible for covering damages and injuries.
How does rideshare insurance coverage work? Rideshare insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. If the driver was waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage. If the driver was en route to pick up a passenger or was actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in coverage for injuries and damages.
What compensation can I receive if I was injured in an Uber or Lyft accident? Victims of rideshare accidents may be eligible to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in some cases, punitive damages. If the accident resulted in a fatality, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death compensation.
How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in New Jersey? In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident, including rideshare accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this period may result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Filing a rideshare accident claim can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. An experienced New Jersey rideshare accident attorney can handle insurance disputes, prove liability, and fight for maximum compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, contact The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., today for a free consultation and protect your rights.
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The Epstein Law Firm
The Epstein Law Firm