Rideshare accidents in New Jersey present legal challenges that traditional car accidents often do not. Determining who is responsible—whether it is the Uber or Lyft driver, another motorist, or the rideshare company itself—can quickly become overwhelming for an injured passenger or driver.
That’s why working with a knowledgeable New Jersey rideshare accident lawyer is critical. Insurance coverage rules shift depending on the status of the ride. Meanwhile, victims are often left dealing with serious injuries and a tangle of insurance claims.
At Petro Cohen, P.C., we help victims cut through the confusion and fight for the full compensation they’re owed. Since 1998, our firm has held negligent parties accountable for their actions. If you were injured in a rideshare crash, we’re here to protect your rights and guide you through every step of the claim process.
Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, which means the companies typically deny direct responsibility for crashes. However, New Jersey law requires rideshare companies to provide varying levels of commercial insurance depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident.
Three key periods determine insurance coverage in a rideshare crash:
- When the app is turned off. If the driver was not logged into the app, only their personal auto insurance applies.
- When the app is turned on, but the driver is not transporting a passenger. If the driver was waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company’s insurance must provide $50,000 for death or bodily injury per person, $100,000 for death or bodily injury per incident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- When a passenger is in the car. The rideshare company must provide $1.5 million for death, bodily injury, and property damage. There must also be $1.5 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Due to these layers of rideshare insurance coverage, it’s not always clear who should pay or how much. A New Jersey rideshare accident lawyercan step in to protect your interests.
How a New Jersey Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Help
Understanding the legal and insurance complications after an Uber accident or Lyft crash can be overwhelming. A skilled New Jersey accident attorneycan guide you through the process and fight for the recovery you deserve.
This includes:
- Identifying all liable parties. Your attorney will investigate whether the rideshare driver, another motorist, or a third party caused the crash and determine who can be held accountable.
- Determining what insurance applies. Rideshare claims hinge on the driver’s status in the app. A lawyer can help establish whether rideshare’s commercial policy should cover your injuries.
- Collecting and preserving key evidence. From trip logs and GPS data to dashcam footage and eyewitness testimony, your legal team will work to secure the evidence needed to prove liability.
- Calculating and documenting your losses. A lawyer can assess the full scope of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Negotiating with insurance companies. Insurers may try to minimize or deny your claim. Your attorney will handle all communication and counter unfair settlement tactics.
- Representing you in court if necessary. If negotiations break down, a rideshare accident lawyer is prepared to file a lawsuit and present your case before a judge or jury.
At Petro Cohen, P.C., we do not back down from complex cases. If you were hurt in a rideshare accident, we’re here to help you get justice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents in New Jersey
Who is responsible for paying medical bills after an Uber or Lyft accident in New Jersey?
Responsibility depends on who caused the accident and the driver’s app status. If the rideshare driver was logged into the app or had a passenger, Uber or Lyft’s commercial insurance usually covers medical expenses. If the app was off, the driver’s personal auto insurance applies. A New Jersey rideshare accident lawyer can help determine which policy should pay your medical bills.
What insurance coverage applies if I’m a passenger in a rideshare accident?
As a rideshare passenger, you are generally covered by the rideshare company’s $1.5 million commercial insurance policy in New Jersey. This includes coverage for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Whether you were in an Uber or Lyft, the rideshare company’s insurance applies once the trip is accepted in the app.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly after an accident?
Usually, no. Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, which means you typically cannot sue the companies directly. However, you can file a claim against the rideshare insurance policy or pursue legal action against the at-fault driver. An experienced New Jersey Lyft accident attorney can help you understand your options and build a strong claim.
What if the rideshare driver’s app was off during the accident — am I still covered?
If the driver’s app was off, the rideshare company’s insurance does not apply. Instead, the driver’s personal car insurance must cover your damages. However, if another driver caused the crash, their insurance may be responsible. These cases can get complicated, so working with a rideshare accident lawyer in New Jersey helps ensure you pursue the right claim.
How long do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident in New Jersey?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in New Jersey. Waiting too long can prevent you from recovering compensation. It is best to contact a New Jersey rideshare accident lawyer as soon as possible so they can gather evidence and protect your rights before important deadlines expire.
Talk to a New Jersey Accident Lawyer Today
Recovering after a rideshare accident is more than just healing physically—it is protecting your legal rights, securing the compensation you deserve, and making sure you are not left navigating complicated insurance policies alone.
With decades of proven results and a reputation for excellence across South Jersey, Petro Cohen, P.C., focuses on getting real results for injured victims. We understand the complexities of Uber and Lyft accident claims and we’re prepared to fight for you. Our legal team provides personalized attention, prompt communication, and aggressive advocacy at every stage of your claim.
There is no fee unless we win. Let us handle the legal heavy lifting while you focus on recovery.
Contact Petro Cohen, P.C., today for a free case evaluation.
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