What Happens if I am Injured in a Rideshare Accident in New Jersey?

If you are injured in a rideshare accident in New Jersey, seek medical attention right away. After that, you will have to file an insurance claim if you want the liable party to compensate you for your losses. These claims can be more complicated than those from regular car accidents.

You don’t have to handle this alone, especially when you need your time to focus on healing from the crash. Our Clifton rideshare accident lawyers can handle the insurance process and advocate for the compensation that covers your losses. 

We can also pursue compensation at trial if we cannot recover your losses outside of court. You can learn more during a free consultation.

Reasons Rideshare Crashes Can Be More Complex Than Others

Several factors make rideshare crashes more complicated than everyday accidents. Here’s why:

• Multiple insurance policies: A rideshare accident involves the driver’s personal auto insurance and extra coverage from the rideshare company (Uber or Lyft). Which insurance applies depends on the following:
  • Whether the driver was waiting for a ride.
  • Whether the driver was on the way to pick up a passenger.
  • Whether the driver had a passenger in the car.
• Determining who’s responsible: It can be harder to determine who is at fault, especially if other vehicles are involved.
• Driver status: Rideshare drivers are independent contractors, not full employees. This makes it more difficult to hold the rideshare company responsible.

Because of these factors, it can be confusing to know who to file claims against and how to get fair compensation. Our Clifton car accident lawyers can help you sort through these issues and work to make sure you get the compensation you need.

What Insurance Covers a Rideshare Accident in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide specific insurance coverage for passengers involved in an accident. The coverage depends on the rideshare driver’s status during the accident. 

For example, if the driver was logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, the company provides limited coverage. If the driver was on their way to pick up a passenger or had a passenger in the vehicle, a more comprehensive insurance policy covers the accident.

What Should I Do After a Rideshare Car Accident Happens?

If you have been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, your first priority should be getting medical help for any injuries. Once you’re safe, take these steps to protect your rights and legal case:

• Report the accident to the rideshare company through its app.
• Collect contact and insurance information from the rideshare driver and any other drivers involved.
• Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage.
• File a police report, which is essential for insurance claims. Make sure you get a copy of it. You can also ask your lawyer to obtain it for you.
• Keep records of all medical treatment and expenses.

How Can Our Lawyers Help You After a N.J. Rideshare Accident?

Our Clifton personal injury lawyers can assist your New Jersey case by managing the complex process of dealing with multiple insurance companies, including your personal insurance and the rideshare company’s insurer. 

We also will:

• Talk with you to understand the accident from your perspective.
• Investigate the accident to determine what happened.
• Gather evidence that supports your claims.
• Determine which insurance policies apply to your case.
• Review your losses and calculate the value of your claim.
• Negotiate a fair financial award from the insurance company.
• Protect you from accepting a settlement offer that does not cover your expenses.

In cases where the insurance company disputes liability or offers a low settlement, we can take the case to court and advocate on your behalf.

Recoverable Damages in New Jersey Rideshare Accident Cases

If you suffered injuries in a rideshare accident, you can pursue various types of damages related to your injuries and accident, including:

• Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
• Lost income from the time you missed work
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage (if your personal belongings were damaged in the accident)

Damages in Fatal Ridesharing Accidents

If you lose a loved one in a fatal ridesharing accident in New Jersey, our Clifton wrongful death lawyers can lead your case for compensatory damages. These damages intend to compensate surviving family members for the financial and emotional losses caused by the accident.

In New Jersey, wrongful death damages can include:

• Funeral and burial costs: You can receive compensation for the expenses of your loved one’s funeral and burial.
• Medical expenses: You may be able to recover any medical costs incurred before your loved one died, such as hospital bills or treatments.
• Lost income: You can seek compensation for the financial support your loved one would have provided, including their future earnings.
• Loss of services: You can be compensated for the loss of services your loved one provided, like household chores, childcare, and other help around the home.
• Loss of companionship: You may recover damages for the emotional pain caused by losing the love, guidance, and companionship of your family member.

We can advise you on a wrongful death lawsuit during a free consultation.

How Long do You Have to Sue for Damages for a Crash in N.J.?

In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim, per state law. However, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible so they can preserve critical evidence and file your case within the appropriate time frame.

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal rideshare accident, we can explain the wrongful death statute of limitations in New Jersey and answer your questions and concerns.

Call Us If You Were Hurt in a New Jersey Rideshare Accident

If you were injured in a rideshare accident in New Jersey, we can handle the insurance and legal process for you. Morelli Law Firm knows how challenging these cases can be, so we will demand compensation from the liable party that can cover your medical bills, lost wages, or other damages.

Our attorneys handling cases in northern New Jersey will lead your entire case. We have served our clients for over 25 years and have recovered more than $1 billion in compensation. 

Call us today to discuss your case during a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, so we can handle your case at no upfront cost, and you pay us only if we win.