Can You Sue Uber or Lyft for Accidents in New Jersey? Understanding Your Options

These days, traveling is made simple by ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, particularly for those without a car. They are more contemporary and adaptable than conventional taxis. Accidents may occur, though, and they can complicate matters.

Knowing your legal options after being hurt in an accident using a ride-sharing service can be difficult. You can get details regarding your rights and process guidance at CourtLaw.

The Rise of Rideshare Services in New Jersey

You cannot overestimate how much Uber and Lyft have influenced NJ’s transport use. Ride-sharing has grown in popularity. However, there has also been a noticeable rise in ride-sharing road mishaps.

According to state records, there has been an increase in these cases. This increased road accident rate emphasizes the importance of citizens comprehending the importance of knowing their rights and the available legal options.

Common Rideshare Accident Scenarios

There are several reasons why ride-share accidents happen in NJ. Each one poses different difficulties for the people involved. Being aware of these situations might make it easier to deal with them. Some conditions are described below:

Collisions with Other Vehicles

Ride-share cars are involved in several multi-vehicle crashes on NJ’s crowded roads. Numerous parties may be subject to claims in these incidents, which frequently entail complicated responsibility problems.

Incidents Involving Rideshare Passengers

In addition to accidents, passengers may sustain injuries from:

• Sudden stops
• Maneuvers to avoid accidents
• When entering/exiting vehicles, sudden stops

In these situations, some elements may determine who is responsible, such as the following:

• Driver’s behavior
• Ride-sharing company’s rules

Pedestrian Accidents

Recovery is extremely difficult for pedestrians struck by ride-sharing cars. These instances may be based on pedestrian behavior during the collision, motorist distraction, or right-of-way regulations.

Accidents During App Engagement

Accidents may happen when a driver is using a ride-sharing app without passengers. In these situations, insurance coverage can be complicated and frequently varies based on the driver’s position in the app at the time of the crash.

Steps to Take Right After a Rideshare Accident

Check for Injuries and Call for Help

Look for injuries on yourself and others. Dial 911 right away for police and medical assistance.

Document the Scene

If it is safe, take thorough pictures of the accident site. Video recordings are quite helpful. Capture all of the:

• Involved vehicles
• License plates
• State of the roads
• Obvious injuries

Exchange Information and Gather Evidence

Get the driver’s and any other parties’ insurance and contact details. Take a snapshot of the ride details from the app and note the brand and model of the ride-share car.

Witness Statements

Obtain the contact details of witnesses who may be there and ask them. Doing so is crucial in determining who is at fault.

Report the Ride-sharing Company

Report the accident using the ride-sharing company’s app or customer support. This step is vital to start any eligible insurance claims.

Regulations for Rideshare Companies in NJ

NJ requires ride-sharing businesses to have ample insurance coverage. The aim is to protect riders, drivers, and pedestrians in road accidents. Such rules certify that the sufferers have monetary support in road mishaps.

Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage of up to $1 million for road mishaps when a rider is in the car. If you are involved in a ride-sharing accident, be aware of the conditions which make you eligible for this coverage.

Comparative Fault in New Jersey

NJ’s modified comparative fault law may significantly impact compensation after a ride-sharing accident. This rule lowers your reimbursement based on the extent of your fault if you are judged to be partially responsible for the accident.

If you are more than 50% at fault, you will not win recompensation from the other parties involved. It highlights the importance of conducting a detailed accident investigation to determine who was at fault.

Legal Options After a Rideshare Accident

Insurance Claims

File a claim to the insurance firm of ride-sharing business. Depending on the specifics of the collision, this may involve:

• Handling the driver’s own insurance
• Business’s commercial coverage

Legal Action Against Uber or Lyft

You can sue a ride-sharing company directly if its policies or lack of management led to the accident. However, it cannot be easy and requires a thorough comprehension of ride-sharing regulations.

Personal Injury Lawsuit Against the Driver

You may sue the driver if their carelessness was the direct cause of the mishap. The key to these instances is proof of drivers’ violations of ride-sharing business regulations or traffic laws. 

Third-Party Insurance Claims

You can file claims against third parties when they are at fault. To increase reimbursement,  identify all parties who are accountable.

Beat the Challenges of Rideshare Accident Cases

Proving Liability

A thorough investigation is necessary to establish culpability in ride-sharing incidents. Analyzing ride-share driver app data, traffic camera footage, and vehicle ‘black box’ recordings may all be part of this.

Navigating Insurance Complexities

Ride-share providers may have multiple insurance plans depending on the driver’s condition at the time of the collision. Understanding these subtleties is essential for a successful claim.

Statute of Limitations

You must move quickly since personal injury cases in NJ have a two-year statute of limitations. Postponing legal action may make it more difficult for you to get compensation.

Experienced Legal Representation

In light of these complications, obtaining guidance from a legal company specializing in ride-sharing accidents is essential. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer at CourtLaw Injury Lawyers can help you get the money you are due, negotiate the court system, and act as your champion.

Contact CourtLaw Injury Lawyers Today for a Free Consultation About Your Uber or Lyft Accident

It might be quite challenging to handle the mishap alone if you were hurt in a ride-sharing accident in NJ. We recognize the complexity of ride-sharing accident situations. Therefore, CourtLaw Injury Lawyers are devoted to providing you with the expert legal advice you require to obtain the recompense you are entitled to.

We have the skills and facilities to handle everything from handling insurance claims to pursuing legal action against large ride-sharing firms. You should not let a challenging ride-sharing accident case discourage you from pursuing justice.Allow the committed staff at CourtLaw Injury Lawyers to assist you at every stage of the legal procedure. Take the first step toward healing and mental peace by contacting us for a free consultation.he way. Contact us today for a free consultation, and take the first step towards recovery and peace of mind.