Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed the transportation industry, providing convenient and affordable alternatives to traditional taxi services. However, with the growing popularity of ridesharing comes an increased risk of accidents and injuries involving ride-hailing vehicles. Suppose you have been injured in a rideshare accident in New Jersey. In that case, you need a dedicated and skilled New Jersey rideshare accident lawyer to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.
At Stark & Stark, our team of experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyers is here to help you navigate the complicated legal process and seek justice for your injuries and losses. We understand the complexities of rideshare accident claims and work tirelessly to navigate the legal process on your behalf.
Types of rideshare collisions we handle
Passengers injured in rideshare accidents
Passengers injured while riding in a rideshare vehicle may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, regardless of fault. Our New Jersey rideshare accident law firm can help you understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation if you were hurt in a ride-hailing collision.
Pedestrians and bystanders injured in rideshare accidents
Pedestrians and bystanders injured in rideshare accidents may also be entitled to compensation for their injuries and other losses. Our rideshare accident lawyers in New Jersey can help you pursue a claim against the at-fault parties responsible for your injuries if you are a pedestrian or bystander injured in a rideshare wreck.
Wrongful death claims
In cases where a rideshare accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim against the liable parties. Our New Jersey wrongful death attorneys have experience representing eligible family members in wrongful death claims and can help you seek justice and compensation for your loss.
How do rideshare accidents happen?
Because rideshare accidents can involve various parties, including rideshare drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists, these collisions may occur due to numerous factors, including:
- Driver negligence
- Fatigued driving
- Inadequate training
- Vehicle maintenance issues
- Third-party negligence
According to the Becker Friedman Institute for Economics at the University of Chicago, Uber, Lyft, and other ride-hailing companies have caused traffic-related fatalities to increase by approximately 3%. If someone else’s negligence caused your rideshare accident, contact a rideshare accident attorney in New Jersey as soon as possible. Our skilled New Jersey rideshare accident attorneys at Stark & Stark can investigate the cause of your accident, determine the parties who can be held responsible for your injuries, and work to get you compensation for your damages.
Why are Uber and Lyft accidents so complicated?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be difficult because companies like Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors and claim they cannot control when and how their drivers operate. However, New Jersey disagrees with the way ride-hailing services classify their drivers and has determined that rideshare drivers are actual employees. This means you can hold the rideshare companies liable for your injuries.
What kinds of injuries are common in New Jersey rideshare accidents?
New Jersey motor vehicle accidents caused 613 fatalities last year, according to the New Jersey State Police. In addition to deaths, rideshare accidents can cause the following injuries:
- Headaches
- Concussions
- Whiplash
- Sprains and strains
- Broken bones
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spine injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Paralysis
- Disfigurement
- Amputation
These injuries can cause severe physical and financial hardships. If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, you need the help of a New Jersey rideshare attorney knowledgeable about New Jersey rideshare law.
Who is responsible for compensating you for your damages after a New Jersey rideshare accident?
Because New Jersey is one of only 12 no-fault states, you must file a claim with your insurance company, regardless of who is to blame for your accident. However, if your damages exceed your personal injury protection (PIP) limits, you may also be able to file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on the specific circumstances of your collision, and liability is assigned based on the different phases of a trip, as follows:
- Rideshare app is off – The rideshare driver is considered a personal driver when their ridesharing company’s app is off. Standard negligence laws apply, and the driver who caused your accident is liable.
- Rideshare app is on – driver is waiting for a ride: Once the ride-hailing driver has logged into their company’s app and is waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company may have some liability, depending on the specific circumstances.
- Rideshare app is on – driver is en route to pick up a passenger: The rideshare company generally carries primary liability for accidents during this phase because the driver is considered their employee in New Jersey.
- Rideshare app is on – passenger is in the vehicle: During the ride, the rideshare company is typically responsible for accidents caused by the driver’s negligence. However, under the comparative negligence law, if the passenger’s actions contribute to the accident, their compensation may be reduced.
- Rideshare app is on – after dropping off passenger: Once the ride is complete and the passenger has exited the vehicle, the driver is again considered a personal driver, and standard negligence laws apply.
An experienced New Jersey Uber accident attorney or New Jersey Lyft accident lawyer can review the circumstances of your collision, identify the liable parties, and determine which insurance policies may be applicable.
What damages are recoverable in a New Jersey rideshare accident claim?
If you have been injured in a rideshare accident and your injuries meet the verbal threshold, you may be entitled to the following compensation for various damages:
- Medical expenses: This covers all past, present, and future medical costs associated with your injuries, including hospital bills, doctor visits, physical therapy, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: Your New Jersey rideshare lawyer can work to secure lost income due to your inability to work while recovering from your injuries. This may also include lost future earning potential if your injuries permanently impact your ability to work.
- Pain and suffering: This covers the physical and emotional pain and trauma you have endured due to your rideshare accident.
- Property damage: If your Uber or Lyft collision damaged your personal belongings, you can recover compensation for repairs or replacement.
- Out-of-pocket expenses: This includes any additional costs you incur due to the rideshare accident, such as transportation to and from medical appointments or home care services.
- Punitive damages: These damages are only awarded if you can prove that the liable party acted egregiously or maliciously. In New Jersey, they are capped at $350,000 or five times the amount of your other economic and non-economic damages.
Our skilled Uber and Lyft accident attorneys work diligently to get you maximum compensation for your injuries and other losses.
How can Stark & Stark help you after a rideshare accident
Our experienced rideshare accident law firm in New Jersey guides you through every step of the legal process, including:
- Case evaluation: During your initial consultation, we evaluate the details of your rideshare accident case, discuss your legal options, and answer any questions.
- Investigation: We conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your Uber or Lyft accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records
- Insurance claims: We handle all communications and negotiations with the applicable insurance companies on your behalf, seeking fair compensation for your injuries and other losses.
- Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury by presenting compelling evidence and arguments to support your claim for damages.
Contact Stark & Stark’s New Jersey rideshare accident attorneys today
If you have been injured in a rideshare accident in New Jersey, you should not face the legal process and fight for justice alone. At Stark & Stark, our team of experienced and dedicated New Jersey rideshare accident lawyers is here to provide you with the support, attention, and aggressive representation you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (800) 535-3425 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and protect your rights after your rideshare accident.
