Patterson Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely used in Patterson, New Jersey, and nationwide. With their convenience and ease of use, many people rely on these services daily. However, accidents involving rideshare vehicles can occur just as with any other mode of transportation. The legal issues surrounding rideshare accidents can be more complicated than traditional car accidents due to the involvement of multiple parties, including the driver, the rideshare company, and other motorists.
If you are involved in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft or are a driver or another party impacted by a rideshare accident, it is essential to understand your legal rights and options. The Patterson Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein are experienced in handling these cases and guide you through the legal process, protecting your interests and helping you pursue any compensation you may be entitled to under New Jersey law.
What Should I Do if I Am Involved in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
First, check yourself and others for injuries and then call 911. Even if you do not feel injured at the time, it is wise to be evaluated by a healthcare professional since some injuries may not present symptoms immediately. Ask about getting a police report as well since it can serve as evidence.
Next, document the accident by taking photos of the scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible damage. Gather contact information from the rideshare driver, other drivers involved, and witnesses. It is also important to obtain the rideshare driver’s insurance information and the rideshare company’s insurance details, which should be accessible through the rideshare app.
Once you have sought medical attention and documented the accident, contact a Patterson Uber and Lyft accident lawyer at Goldstein & Goldstein. Rideshare companies have their own insurance policies, and these cases may involve multiple insurance companies. We can help you understand which insurance policies apply and how to pursue compensation for your injuries or damages.
Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Generally, rideshare accident liability may fall on one or more of the following:
- The rideshare driver.
- Another driver involved in the accident.
- The rideshare company itself, depending on the circumstances.
If the rideshare driver is at fault for the accident, their personal insurance policy may cover the damages if they were not actively using the rideshare app at the time. However, if the driver was logged into the rideshare app and was waiting for a ride request or actively transporting a passenger, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policies may apply. These companies typically provide coverage for accidents when their drivers are engaged in rideshare activities.
If another driver caused the accident, liability may shift to that driver’s insurance company. Additionally, additional parties could be held responsible if road conditions, faulty vehicle parts, or other factors contributed to the accident. Due to different insurance policies and potential parties involved, determining liability in a rideshare accident requires careful consideration of the facts of the case.
What Insurance Coverage Is Available for Uber and Lyft Accidents?
When the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage that may cover damages to third parties in the event of an accident.
Once the driver has accepted a ride request or is actively transporting passengers, Uber and Lyft provide more substantial coverage. This includes up to $1 million in liability coverage for injuries and property damage and uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Understanding the specifics of these policies can be challenging. The Patterson Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein can help you identify the appropriate sources of compensation.
Can I Sue Uber or Lyft After an Accident?
In most cases, Uber and Lyft are not held directly liable for accidents involving their drivers because the drivers are classified as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification limits the liability of the rideshare companies in many situations. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as when the rideshare company’s negligence contributed to the accident, such as failing to properly vet drivers or enforce safety regulations.
While it is often more common to pursue compensation through the rideshare driver’s insurance or the rideshare company’s insurance policy, there are situations where Uber or Lyft may face direct liability. For example, if a defective vehicle was involved in the accident or the company’s policies directly contributed to unsafe conditions, the rideshare company could be named in a lawsuit.
What Compensation Can I Receive After a Rideshare Accident?
After a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, depending on the severity of the incident and your injuries. Compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. If the accident resulted in long-term or permanent injuries, our Patterson Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can fight for additional compensation for future medical care and loss of earning capacity.
How Can Goldstein & Goldstein Help with Uber and Lyft Accident Cases?
Goldstein & Goldstein has extensive experience handling rideshare cases in Patterson and throughout New Jersey. The legal process following these accidents can be complicated, involving multiple parties and insurance companies. Our Patterson Uber and Lyft accident lawyers will help you understand your rights, determine liability, and identify the appropriate insurance coverage for your claim.
We work diligently to build strong cases on behalf of our clients, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and pursuing litigation when necessary. Whether you are a passenger injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, a rideshare driver involved in an accident, or another party affected by a rideshare collision, we are committed to helping you seek fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Let the Skilled Patterson Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein Fight to Protect Your Rights After a Rideshare Crash
If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, the experienced Patterson Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and work to pursue the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, submit our online form or call our East Orange, New Jersey, office at 973-675-8277. We serve clients in the surrounding areas.
