Are New Jersey Taxis Safer Than Uber?
The rideshare business model used by Uber and other like companies has introduced many new considerations in the legal world regarding compensation for injuries after a collision when riding with an Uber driver or even a driverless car. These cases are unique and present new legal issues that must be addressed, and rideshare accident cases in New Jersey can be a stressful process for accident victims.
Every new industry will have safety issues. For those who routinely use Uber to get around, it is advised that you be prepared by having a qualified New Jersey Uber accident lawyer on your side in the event of an accident. Time can be crucial when crashes do occur, and evidence can fade quickly.
The traditional taxi industry has been a successful model, particularly in urban areas. Many people living in cities do not even own a car because taxis are reliable.
In the taxi business, the company is liable for any accidents caused by their drivers because they use certified drivers, and this makes taxis considerably safer than Ubers due to regulations and certification requirements.
Unqualified Drivers
Uber started out with a contracted driver business model to provide those wanting a ride in a certain area where drivers were active through an online app.
This can prove a problem because of the actions of some Uber drivers who behave in a reckless or criminal manner. There have been many stories of drivers who attacked or sexually assaulted rideshare passengers. There may be even more safety issues outside of car accidents caused by drivers who are not certified to drive for the rideshare service.
Employment Model
When a New Jersey rideshare accident is being settled, the contracted driver model can be an issue concerning liability. The relationship between Uber and its drivers is lofty, and the company may argue that they are exempt from liability because the driver is allowed to refuse passengers, making them independent contractors.
The nature of the employment relationship and business structure determines liability in a New Jersey accident case. The precedent has been established concerning Uber, and the company is expected to provide insurance coverage in collisions where the driver had the rideshare app on. Even then, negligence claims can still be contested.
Uber Accidents in New Jersey
Those who are injured in a crash involving a rideshare vehicle should consult with an Uber/Lyft crash lawyer in New Jersey immediately in order to better understand their legal options. The legal team at Brady Reilly & Cardoso, LLC is here to help you make sure that your case is treated fairly and that the liable driver is held accountable for his or her actions. We will fight to make sure that you recover the compensation you deserve so that your life can get back on track. Contact our New Jersey rideshare crash attorneys today at (201) 997- 0030 if you or a loved one has been unfairly injured in a crash involving a rideshare driver.