Our Family Has Given A Voice To The Injured For Over 50 Combined Years
Uber and Lyft have become part of everyday life in Newark. Whether you are traveling to Newark Penn Station, Prudential Center, Newark Liberty International Airport, or heading home after a summer event, rideshare services offer convenience. Unfortunately, Uber and Lyft accidents happen, and determining who pays for injuries is often more complicated than a typical car accident.
If you were injured in an Uber, Lyft, or delivery vehicle accident, you may have the right to pursue compensation. However, these claims involve unique insurance rules and multiple parties, making legal guidance essential.
At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, our experienced Newark rideshare accident lawyers help injured victims throughout Essex County pursue the compensation they deserve.
Why Are Rideshare Accident Cases More Complicated?
Unlike traditional employers, Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors. As a result, liability depends largely on what the driver was doing when the crash occurred.
Your Newark Uber accident attorney must determine:
- Who caused the crash.
- Whether the driver was logged into the app.
- Which insurance policy applies.
- Whether multiple drivers share responsibility.
- Whether passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, or other motorists were injured.
These details can significantly affect the amount of compensation available.
When Does Uber or Lyft Insurance Apply?
Insurance coverage changes based on the driver’s status:
Driver Is Offline
If the app is off, only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
Driver Is Logged In and Waiting for a Ride Request
Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage while the driver is available for rides.
Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Has a Passenger
Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage.
Who Can File a Rideshare Accident Claim?
You may have a claim if you are:
- A passenger was injured while riding in an Uber or Lyft.
- The driver or passenger of another vehicle struck by a rideshare driver.
- A pedestrian hit by an Uber or Lyft vehicle.
- A bicyclist injured by a rideshare driver.
- A rideshare or delivery driver injured by another negligent motorist.
At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, we investigate the circumstances of the accident and pursue compensation from all available insurance sources.
Understanding New Jersey’s No-Fault Insurance Laws
New Jersey is a no-fault state. Most drivers carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which pays medical expenses and lost income regardless of fault.
However, serious injuries may allow victims to pursue additional compensation against the negligent driver.
Depending on your injuries, you may recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Future treatment costs
- Permanent disability
- Loss of quality of life
For more information, visit the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance.
Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents in Newark
Rideshare accidents often result from:
Distracted Driving
Drivers frequently rely on navigation apps and ride requests, increasing distractions.
Fatigue
Many drivers work long hours or drive for multiple services.
Speeding
Drivers may rush to complete trips and maximize earnings.
Unsafe Stops and Double Parking
Quick pickups and drop-offs create hazards for pedestrians and other drivers.
Unfamiliar Roads
Out-of-town drivers may make sudden turns or lane changes while following GPS instructions.
Common Injuries After a Rideshare Accident
Uber and Lyft crashes can cause serious injuries, including:
- Neck injuries and whiplash
- Back injuries
- Herniated discs
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Pedestrian injuries
Prompt medical treatment is critical to both your health and your claim.
What Should You Do After a Newark Uber or Lyft Accident?
Protect yourself by taking the following steps:
Call the Police
An accident report provides valuable evidence.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Some injuries do not show symptoms right away.
Preserve App Information
Take screenshots of:
- Driver information
- Trip details
- Pickup and drop-off locations
- Time of the ride
Gather Evidence
Collect:
- Photos of the vehicles
- Photos of injuries
- Witness names and phone numbers
- Insurance information
Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters
Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your claim. Speak with a lawyer first.
Challenges Victims Often Face
Rideshare accident claims frequently involve:
- Multiple insurance companies
- Coverage disputes
- Questions about driver status
- Delayed investigations
- Low settlement offers
- Missing electronic evidence
An experienced Newark rideshare accident lawyer can preserve important app data and aggressively negotiate with insurers.
Why Hiring an Experienced Newark Rideshare Accident Lawyer Matters
At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, we:
- Investigate the crash thoroughly.
- Preserve electronic and app-related evidence.
- Obtain driver activity logs.
- Work with medical experts.
- Handle insurance companies.
- Fight for maximum compensation.
Our family has given a voice to the injured for more than 50 combined years.
Related Articles
- Newark Uber/Lyft Accident Attorneys
- Uber and Lyft Accidents in Newark: Who Is Responsible?
- What to Do if Injured as a Passenger in Uber or Lyft
Contact Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP
If you were injured in an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare accident, do not try to navigate the claims process alone.
Our experienced Newark rideshare accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP can investigate your case, determine which insurance policies apply, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call 973-675-8277 or contact us online today for a free consultation. We are located in East Orange, NJ.
FAQs About Uber Accidents In New Jersey
Can I sue Uber directly after an accident?
Usually, claims are brought against the negligent driver and the applicable insurance coverage. Whether Uber itself can be held responsible depends on the facts of the case.
How much insurance coverage does Uber provide?
Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage when a driver has accepted a ride or is transporting a passenger.
Can passengers sue after an Uber accident?
Yes. Injured passengers may file claims regardless of which driver caused the crash.
How long do I have to file a rideshare accident lawsuit in New Jersey?
In most cases, New Jersey gives injury victims two years to file a lawsuit. Speaking with an attorney promptly helps preserve evidence and protect your rights.
What if multiple vehicles were involved?
Multiple insurance policies may apply. An attorney can investigate all liable parties and pursue compensation from every available source.
