Navigating Legal Recourse For Uber & Lyft Accidents
Even with excellent reviews for an Uber or Lyft driver, perfection is unattainable, and the risk of being involved in a vehicle accident always exists.
Understanding your legal options becomes crucial if you sustain injuries during a rideshare trip. Identifying liability in an Uber/Lyft accident in New Jersey is essential. You should not be burdened with the financial consequences of painful and costly injuries for which you are not at fault.
Uber and Lyft Accidents in New Jersey and New York
New Jersey and New York operate as no-fault states, meaning your insurance will cover a portion of accident expenses, regardless of fault. In New Jersey, all drivers are mandated to have personal injury protection insurance (PIP). While this seems straightforward, nuances regarding liability in NJ rideshare accidents can lead to complexities in your claim process.
The other driver’s PIP insurance would usually cover your medical expenses. However, in certain states like New Jersey, the insurance company may not have this obligation if the driver is driving for work.
So, Who is Liable?
If the driver doesn’t have the required coverage or their insurance denies payment for your injuries, you might need to pursue compensation from Uber or Lyft insurance. This is also applicable if the cost of your injuries surpasses the insurance policy’s coverage limits.
The accident’s timing can influence the liability assessment for your claim since the rideshare driver’s engagement status affects the amount of insurance coverage available.
Active/Available Driver
When an Uber or Lyft driver is available, they are in their vehicle with the rideshare app on, waiting for a passenger to accept a ride. In such a situation, the company covers the liability in a rideshare accident.
Offline Driver
When in their vehicle but not using the app, an offline driver is covered only by their insurance, and the rideshare company holds no responsibility for any accidents.
Completing a Ride or En Route
Once the rideshare driver accepts a ride on the app and is on their way to pick up the passenger or actively completing a ride, the company’s full insurance policy provides coverage for any accidents that may occur during this time.
Do You Need A Lawyer for Uber and Lyft Accidents?
In the aftermath of your accident, you might encounter multiple insurance companies attempting to determine liability in an Uber/Lyft accident in New Jersey.
It’s important to note that some insurance companies may promptly offer settlements that undervalue your claim, hoping you will accept them without further inquiry.
The Alsaidi Chang and Hamdan team understands the importance of ensuring you receive nothing less than what you rightfully deserve. Call us today if you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident.
