Being an injured passenger in Uber or Lyft crash can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. As a passenger, your focus should be on recovery—not on the complexities of insurance and liability. This guide explains your legal rights, what to expect, and how to pursue compensation in New Jersey.
The Rise of Rideshare Accidents in New Jersey
With more people relying on rideshare services, the number of rideshare-related crashes has climbed. Cities like Newark, Jersey City, and Hoboken have seen sharp increases in traffic congestion, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving Uber and Lyft. If you’re an injured passenger in Uber, it’s crucial to understand who is liable and what coverage applies.
Who Is Liable for an Injured Passenger in Uber?
Determining liability depends on who caused the crash:
- Uber or Lyft Driver: If the driver was negligent—speeding, distracted, or violating laws—they may be at fault.
- Other Drivers: A third-party driver may be responsible if they caused the crash.
- Uber/Lyft: These companies provide insurance coverage when the driver is logged into the app.
- Third Parties: Faulty traffic signals, poor road conditions, or defective car parts may implicate others.
Insurance Coverage for an Injured Passenger in Uber
Uber and Lyft insurance coverage depends on the driver’s activity:
- Logged in but no ride accepted: Limited liability coverage up to $50,000/person and $100,000/accident.
- En route or during ride: Up to $1 million in liability, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
As an injured passenger in Uber, you’re covered under the highest protection when the ride is active.
What to Do If You’re an Injured Passenger in Uber or Lyft
- Seek Medical Help Immediately: Even minor injuries should be evaluated. Medical records strengthen your case.
- File a Police Report: This provides critical documentation for your personal injury claim.
- Report to Uber or Lyft: Use the app to report the crash. This creates a digital trail of the incident.
- Document the Scene: Take photos and gather names of witnesses and all involved drivers.
- Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters Alone: They may use your words against you.
- Call a Personal Injury Attorney: Legal guidance is essential for an injured passenger in Uber to get maximum compensation.
Types of Compensation Available
As an injured passenger in Uber, you may be eligible for:
- Medical expenses (ER visits, surgery, rehab)
- Lost wages from missing work
- Future earning loss from long-term injury
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages in severe negligence cases
Why Hire a Lawyer If You’re an Injured Passenger in Uber?
Insurance companies will try to settle quickly and cheaply. An experienced personal injury attorney will:
- Investigate your claim
- Negotiate with multiple insurance carriers
- Calculate full damages (now and future)
- Represent you in court if necessary
Final Thoughts for Injured Passenger in Uber Cases
Being an injured passenger in Uber doesn’t mean you’re powerless. You’re entitled to medical treatment, time to recover, and full financial compensation. With the right legal team, you can focus on healing while professionals handle the legal side.
If you were an injured passenger in Uber or Lyft in New Jersey, don’t wait. Contact CourtLaw Injury Lawyers today for your free case evaluation. We serve clients across Newark, Jersey City, and Hoboken. Call 732-442-5900 or fill out our online contact form to protect your rights now.
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing.
Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled injury attorneys at CourtLaw NJ Personal Injury Lawyers represent clients injured in accidents in Perth Amboy, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Roselle, East Orange, and throughout New Jersey. Call 732-442-5900 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 163 Market Street, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 as well as offices in Jersey City, New Brunswick, Roselle, and East Orange.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
