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Essex County Uber & Lyft Car Accident Lawyers
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation, providing convenient and affordable options for many people. However, with the rise of these services, accidents involving rideshare vehicles have become an issue.
When an Uber or Lyft car accident occurs, determining liability and securing compensation can be more complicated than in typical car accidents because there’s a third party involved. Here is how to protect your interests if you are injured in an Uber or Lyft crash in Essex County.
What Should I Do Immediately After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Essex County?
The moments following an accident can be stressful, but taking the right steps is vital for your safety and can influence any potential legal action.
- Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. The police will document the scene and create an official report, which will be important for your case. Exchange information with the other driver(s) and any witnesses. This includes names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
- Taking photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries can provide valuable evidence.
- Notify the rideshare company about the accident through their app.
- Contact your insurance company to report the accident and begin the claims process.
Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complicated due to the involvement of multiple parties. Liability depends on the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident. If the driver was logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company’s insurance typically provides limited coverage. If the driver was en route to pick up a passenger or during a ride, the company’s full insurance policy is usually in effect.
However, if the driver was not logged into the app, their personal insurance would be the primary coverage. That is why it is important to determine the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
What Insurance Coverage Is Available in Uber and Lyft Accidents?
Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the extent of this coverage depends on the driver’s status during the accident.
- When the driver is offline, their personal insurance policy limits apply.
- When the driver is logged into the app but not carrying a passenger, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage. This includes $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
- If the driver is en route to pick up passengers or during a ride, the company’s insurance provides up to $1 million in liability coverage, $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (with a $2,500 deductible).
How Do New Jersey Car Accident Laws Affect Uber and Lyft Cases?
New Jersey follows a “no-fault” car insurance system, which means that your own insurance company pays for your medical expenses and lost wages up to your policy limits, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. This is known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. However, PIP does not cover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, which can be claimed only if certain conditions are met.
In New Jersey, you can sue for pain and suffering only if you meet the “serious injury” threshold. Serious injuries include:
- Significant disfigurement
- Dismemberment
- Loss of a fetus
- Displaced fractures
- Permanent injury
- Fatal
This threshold applies to Uber and Lyft accidents as well.
What Compensation Can I Recover for an Uber or Lyft Accident?
If you are involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for hospitalization, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and potential future medical needs related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you lost while recovering from your injuries, as well as any future earning capacity if you cannot return to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you experienced due to the accident.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle and any other damaged property.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact the accident has had on your relationship with your spouse.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file your lawsuit within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation through the courts. It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all necessary steps are taken within the legal deadlines.
What Should I Do If My Insurance Claim Is Denied?
If your insurance claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Review the denial letter carefully to understand the specific reasons and provide additional documentation or evidence that may support your claim. If the insurance company still refuses to pay, an attorney can help you explore further legal options, including the possibility of filing a lawsuit.
How Can an Essex County Uber and Lyft Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?
The Essex County Uber and Lyft car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein can provide valuable assistance throughout the claims process and any subsequent litigation. Our team can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary. We can also provide guidance on the best legal strategies to maximize your compensation.
What Should I Expect During the Legal Process?
The legal process for an Uber or Lyft accident case typically begins with a thorough investigation. Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case. Once the evidence is collected, your attorney will negotiate with the insurance companies to seek a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.
The Essex County Uber & Lyft Car Accident Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein Can Fight to Protect Your Rights
Being injured in an Uber or Lyft accident can certainly be unsettling, but there is legal help to be found. The skilled Essex County Uber and Lyft car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein offer free consultations and can fight to protect your rights. Submit our online form or call 973-675-8277 for more information. Located in East Orange, New Jersey, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.